What's the building code requirement in New Brunswick for the riser height and tread depth on exterior concrete steps at a front entrance?

The NB Building Code requires exterior concrete steps to have a maximum riser height of 200mm (7.87 inches) and a minimum tread depth of 280mm (11 inches) for front entrance steps. These dimensions ensure safe navigation, especially important during NB's icy winter conditions when steps become slippery.

The specific requirements for exterior entrance steps are more generous than interior stairs because outdoor steps typically serve fewer people and allow for broader, more gradual steps that are safer in weather conditions. All risers must be uniform within 6mm (1/4 inch) — you cannot have one step that's 7 inches and another that's 6 inches, as this creates a tripping hazard. Similarly, all treads must be uniform within 10mm (3/8 inch).

Handrails become mandatory when you have more than three risers (four or more steps total). The handrail must be between 865mm and 965mm high (34-38 inches) measured from the tread nosing. For steps wider than 1100mm (43 inches), handrails are required on both sides. The handrail must extend at least 300mm (12 inches) beyond the top and bottom steps for safe gripping while mounting and dismounting.

In NB's freeze-thaw climate, proper step construction is critical for longevity. Steps must be built on footings that extend below the 4-foot frost line to prevent heave and cracking. The concrete should be air-entrained (4-7% air content) to resist our 150+ annual freeze-thaw cycles. A slight slope of 1-2% on each tread helps shed water and prevents ice buildup — standing water on steps becomes a safety hazard and accelerates concrete deterioration through freeze-thaw damage.

Control joints should be cut between each step within 24 hours of pouring to control shrinkage cracking. Many contractors skip this detail, but it prevents random cracks that collect water and salt. Apply a penetrating concrete sealer annually to repel moisture and de-icing chemicals.

Most front entrance step projects require a building permit in NB municipalities, especially when the steps are part of a new construction or major renovation. Check with your local building inspection office, as some jurisdictions have specific requirements for step width, landing size, and drainage around entrance steps.

Hire a professional for concrete step construction. Steps involve complex forming, precise measurements for code compliance, proper reinforcement, and finishing work that must be completed within the concrete's working time. Mistakes in step construction are highly visible, create safety hazards, and are expensive to correct. A typical set of front entrance steps (4-6 steps with landing) costs $1,500-$4,000 depending on size and complexity.