West Des Moines Step Building Services
Living in West Des Moines means enjoying beautiful rolling hills and vibrant landscapes, but let’s be real—steep yards, tricky winters, and that slippery moss can make getting around a bit of a workout. DIY stairs often end up being more of a hazard than a help. That’s where we step in! At Neat & Tidy, we specialize in creating safe, sturdy, and stylish steps that not only enhance your property but also ensure you can navigate it with ease.
What’s the Problem?
Let’s talk about those pesky issues that can turn a walk in your yard into a balancing act. Here’s what we tackle:
- Uneven or crumbling steps: We’ll eliminate those trip hazards!
- Water pooling on treads: We’ll design steps to redirect water away.
- Inconsistent risers: Tired of leg workouts? We’ll create steps that feel just right.
- Rotting timber or shifting pavers: Time for an upgrade that lasts!
- Missing landings, lighting, or handrails: We’ll add the safety features you need.
What We Build (Materials That Last)
We believe in using only the best materials that can withstand West Des Moines’s weather while looking fabulous. Here’s what we offer:
- Stone / Block Risers + Paver Treads: Sleek and easy to replace—ideal for those unique curves!
- Cast-in-Place Concrete: Highly durable, perfect for integrated landings and handrail posts.
- Large Stone Slab Steps: Natural beauty with fewer joints for excellent grip.
- Timber Box Steps: A warm, inviting look with hidden anchors and drainage options.
- Gravel Steps: Edged with durable steel or aluminum, featuring geogrid for steep areas.
We don’t just build steps; we pair them with effective drainage solutions (French drains, swales, or weeps) to keep your stairs dry and safe.
How We Build (Our Step-by-Step Process)
- Layout & Code Check: We ensure consistent rise/run, perfect sightlines, and landing spacing aimed for a comfy 6–7″ rise and 11–14″ tread.
- Utility Locate & Permits: Safety first! We’ll call 811 before digging and handle any necessary permits.
- Excavate & Stabilize: We’ll clear away organic materials and lay down a sturdy geotextile and crushed rock base.
- Drainage First: We prioritize water management with underdrains or side swales.
- Set Risers True: Using laser levels and precision tools, everything will be just right.
- Screed Tread Beds: We use only solid materials; mushy bases are a no-go!
- Edge & Backfill: We secure everything to prevent shifting down the line.
- Handrails & Lighting (Optional): Adding safety features like post anchors and low-voltage lighting.
- Finish Clean: We ensure a pristine end result with polymeric sand and anti-slip textures.
No quick fixes here! If roots, drainage, or soil issues may cause problems later, we address them upfront.
Quick Specs We Aim For
- Rise/Run: ~6–7″ rise × 11–14″ tread (within ⅜″ max variation)
- Slope/Shedding: Treads pitched ~1–2% to ensure water drains properly.
- Base: Compacted crushed rock of 4–8″, more if needed.
- Landings: Every 8–12 risers for comfort and safety.
- Traction: We use broomed concrete, textured stone, or fine gravel—not slippery surfaces.
(We adapt to your site conditions and local requirements!)
Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Best Friend)
Keep your steps looking great with our comprehensive maintenance plan, including:
- Moss & Algae Control: Seasonal treatments for shaded areas.
- Joint Health: Polymer sand top-ups to keep paver joints tight.
- Edge & Pin Checks: Prevent shifting on slopes before it happens.
- Drainage Clear-Outs: Regular maintenance to keep water flowing.
- Finish Care: Re-sealing timber, cleaning/sealing concrete, and re-dressing gravel as needed.
We’re all about low-maintenance landscaping. Our goal is to ensure your property looks amazing with minimal effort on your part.
Service Cadences (Choose Your Style)
- Quarterly: Ideal for mossy, shaded sites—includes spring/fall resets and two tune-ups.
- Bi-Monthly: A solid choice for most West Des Moines slopes and walkways.
What Annual Maintenance Includes
- A walkthrough & photo log to track any changes.
- Joint re-sanding (pavers), crack sealing (concrete), or gravel re-dressing.
- Drainage checks to ensure weep holes, swales, and inlets are clear.
- Handrail tightening and lighting checks to keep everything safe and functional.
- A thorough debris sweep and gentle low-pressure rinse.
Why Annual Maintenance Matters
- Safety: Reduce the risk of slips and trips, especially during the rainy months.
- Longevity: Proper care means fewer issues down the line.
- Visual Appeal: Crisp edges and even surfaces keep your property looking its best.
- Cost-Effective: Timely fixes save you from expensive repairs later on.
How It Works
- Free Estimate: We’ll assess your property through photos/video or a quick walkthrough—no hidden costs!
- Design & Plan: We’ll map out materials, handrails, lighting, and drainage options tailored to your needs.
- Build Day(s): Our team will handle excavation, base preparation, drainage installation, riser and tread setting, and a thorough cleanup.
- Follow-Up: We’ll provide care notes, lighting timers, and a maintenance plan that suits your lifestyle.
Why West Des Moines Chooses Neat & Tidy
- A local crew that knows West Des Moines’s unique terrain and weather.
- Licensed & insured; we keep our job sites tidy and respectful.
- Transparent pricing—everything from materials to labor included.
- We’re punctual and leave your property cleaner than we found it.
- Eco-conscious approach—we prioritize permeable options and smart drainage solutions.
Ready for Steps That Are Safe, Sturdy, and Stylish?
Call or text Neat & Tidy today for hillside steps that drain, grip, and enhance your landscape—without the maintenance headache. Let us help you keep your property looking neat and tidy—so you can focus on enjoying it!
