Queen Anne Step Building Services

Living in Queen Anne means embracing the beauty of our hills, but let’s be honest—steep yards, wet winters, and that pesky slick moss can make navigating your property a real challenge. DIY stairs often end up as ankle biters or slip-n-slides. That’s where we come in! At Neat & Tidy, we create safe, sturdy, and stylish steps that channel water away, maintain their shape, and seamlessly blend with your landscape.

What’s the Problem?

Let’s face it, the wrong stairs can turn a simple walk into a mini obstacle course. Here are some common issues we fix:

• Uneven or crumbling steps: Say goodbye to trip hazards!
• Water running down the treads: We’ll ensure water flows around, not over.
• Inconsistent risers: Tired legs? We’ll design steps that feel like a breeze.
• Rotting railroad ties or drifting pavers: Time for a solid upgrade!
• Missing landings, lighting, or handrails: We’ll add safety where you need it most.

What We Build (Materials that Stand the Test of Time)

We believe in using top-notch materials that not only look great but also hold up against Queen Anne’s weather. Here’s what we offer:

• Stone / Block Risers + Paver Treads: Sleek and easy to replace—perfect for those curves!
• Cast-in-Place Concrete: Incredibly durable and ideal for integrated landings and handrail posts.
• Large Stone Slab Steps: Natural and fewer joints, providing excellent traction.
• Timber Box Steps: A warm aesthetic with concealed anchors and drainage options.
• Gravel Steps: Edged with steel or aluminum, featuring geogrid for steep areas.

We pair our steps with effective drainage solutions (French drains, swales, or weeps) to keep water flowing around your stairs, not over them.

How We Build (Our Process—No Shortcuts Here!)

1. Layout & Code Check: We ensure a consistent rise/run, perfect sightlines, and landing spacing—aiming for a comfortable 6–7″ rise and 11–14″ tread.
2. Utility Locate & Permits: Safety first! We’ll call 811 before digging and handle any necessary permits.
3. Excavate & Stabilize: We’ll remove organic materials and lay down a sturdy geotextile and crushed rock base.
4. Drainage First: Prioritize water management with underdrains or side swales, tailored for Queen Anne’s unique rain patterns.
5. Set Risers True: Using laser levels and precision tools to ensure everything is just right.
6. Screed Tread Beds: We only use solid materials; no mushy bases here!
7. Edge & Backfill: We make sure everything is secure and compacted to prevent shifting.
8. Handrails & Lighting (Optional): Adding safety features like post anchors and low-voltage lighting.
9. Finish Clean: We ensure a pristine end result with polymeric sand and anti-slip textures.

We don’t do quick fixes. If roots, drainage, or soil issues are going to cause problems down the line, 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 slick surfaces.

(We’ll always adapt to your site conditions and local requirements!)

Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Routine)

Keep your steps in tip-top shape with our comprehensive maintenance plan, which includes:

• Moss & Algae Control: Seasonal treatments for shaded areas common in Queen Anne.
• 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 keep your property looking great with minimal effort on your part.

Service Cadences (Choose What Works for You)

• Quarterly: Perfect for mossy, shaded sites—includes spring/fall resets and two tune-ups.
• Bi-Monthly: A great choice for most Queen Anne 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

1. Free Estimate: We’ll assess your property through photos/video or a quick walkthrough—no hidden costs!
2. Design & Plan: We’ll map out materials, handrails, lighting, and drainage options tailored to your needs.
3. Build Day(s): Our team will handle excavation, base preparation, drainage installation, riser and tread setting, and a thorough cleanup.
4. Follow-Up: We’ll provide care notes, lighting timers, and a maintenance plan that suits your lifestyle.

Why Queen Anne Chooses Neat & Tidy

• A local crew that understands Queen Anne’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. We’ll keep your property looking neat and tidy—so you don’t have to worry!