How to pour concrete step over existing concrete?

FreddyRenovates

I own a townhouse with the storm water run off that ends half way down the side of my house. I want to add a step over the existing end that goes between the wall and fence to make it a lot safer to walk around the side of the house. I'm planning to extend the current ends with pcv pipe extenders, build a frame with wood, and fill with concrete. Also, I'll add some road base and soil up from the step to cover the exposed pipe, meaning the step will be a fair bit higher then the existing dirt level. My question is how much/if rebar is necessary, and how to best prepare the existing concrete, and anything else I haven't thought of. Ideally I'd like to also add pavers on the concrete to match the nearby patio. Any thoughts will be greatly appreciated as it's my first time using concrete!

EricL

Hello @FreddyRenovates

Please note that plumbing work needs to be completed by a licensed professional for safety and compliance.

Before you make any modifications, I suggest engaging the services of a plumber in regards to your storm water run-off. The local council rules for storm water run-off are very strict. Any change or modification to the pipework must be carried out by a licensed plumber. I also suggest informing your plumber of your plans to add concrete steps and pavers.

Once you have sorted out the plumbing issue, you can then begin to design your concrete steps and paved surfaces. In regards to the metal mesh support, while placing reinforcing mesh in the middle of a concrete slab is standard, the rule of thumb for concrete steps is slightly different due to how they bend under load. The mesh should generally be placed one-third of the way up from the bottom of the concrete step, rather than exactly in the middle. It's best to use concrete saddles to keep the support at the proper level. Please note that this is based on a single step build, for multiple steps, I suggest engaging the services of builder.

Here’s a handy guide on How to pour a concrete slab to get you started. 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric