Concrete block wall steps weight question

[Jenn]

My pool builder says he can not build concrete block steps about 4 courses high and about 11 cubic feet volume inside a 4 course high retaining wall on top of a 4" deep concrete deck because the steps might break the deck and the water and electric piping beneath the deck. They should have done a 12" thick footer for such stairs. The builder/former owner of the home suggests this is incorrect and they just want to not have to build the steps.

What is the wisdom from all our experts here? Thanking you in advance,

Jennifer (FINALLY getting to plant grass seed- just before a big rain tonight- and with almost 1/2 the backyard ours again after 4 month wait and 6 weeks construction zone ((and BTW happy owner of a functional pool in the midst of a sea of Alabama red clay)) )

[mtman]

there are 2 kinds of block have him use the feather ones much lighter and very strong they cost a bit more

[Junkmanme]

You might consider asking this question on the "Shop-Talk" Forum here on Homesteading Today. LOTS of knowledgeable people hang-out there! Good Luck.

P.S. Being a welder (amongst other stuff), I'd probably build some sort of steel-support and then not have to "fret" over it. But, I've always tried to look at things from a "different point of view". (May be "off-base" for your application.)

I've poured a fair amount of concrete, but concrete-blocks to me ---seem very WEAK.

just my 2 centavos worth,
Bruce

[farminghandyman]

Are the steps going to be hollow or filled solid,

If hollow I don't think there would be a problem,
I could see a possible problem if filled with the weight and the 4" slab,
Yes it would be better if there was a proper footer,

[Rocky Fields]

Hey.

You have to know what psi mix was used for the concrete before you can finish the assessment of whether it can or can't be done. Also, you need to know about rebar size and placement, or was wire mesh used?

[Rocky Fields]

PS: They make precast concrete steps that are hollow underneath and much lighter than block.

[uncle Will in In.]

I park a 4000 lb truck on a 4 inch garage floor and its held up for 30 years. That would put 1000 lb or more on each tire. How many blocks would it take?

[crobar]

The contractor must be conservative he is responsible for the results, however if you intend to fill the steps with concrete and it's on the edge of the slab, I think it will crack.

[Jenn]

It'd be 40 blocks and we planned to fill with cement- I see it WOULD be too much weight. Off to look at premade stairs but will wait until gate is in for better width selection.

[MELOC]

Originally Posted by crobar

The contractor must be conservative he is responsible for the results, however if you intend to fill the steps with concrete and it's on the edge of the slab, I think it will crack.

i agree. if it was not over anything critical, i would say just do it and deal with any cracks if they come. you don't want cracks to break the pipes.

i agree on the use of pre-cast steps.