What's the cost to demolish concrete steps and rebuild with interlock pavers in Burnaby?

Demolishing concrete steps and rebuilding with interlock pavers in Burnaby typically costs $3,000-$8,000 for a standard 5-6 step staircase, depending on the size of the existing steps, access challenges, and the complexity of the new paver design.

The project breaks down into two main phases: demolition of the existing concrete steps and construction of the new interlock staircase. Concrete step demolition runs $800-$2,000 depending on the size and thickness of the existing steps. This includes jackhammering the concrete, cutting any rebar, loading debris into trucks, and disposal at an approved facility. Steps attached to a concrete porch or landing require more careful demolition to avoid damaging the remaining structure. Poor access — common in older Burnaby neighbourhoods where trucks can't get close to the front of the house — adds $500-$1,500 to demolition costs because debris must be wheelbarrowed to the truck.

New interlock step construction costs $2,500-$6,500 for a typical residential front entrance staircase. This includes excavation for proper footings (concrete steps require deeper foundations than the original concrete likely had), compacted gravel base, concrete footing pads for the first course of pavers, the interlock pavers themselves, polymeric sand, and labour. Paver steps use either specially manufactured step units or standard pavers with concrete block cores for structural support. The treads (horizontal walking surface) must be at least 11 inches deep per BC Building Code, and risers (vertical height) cannot exceed 8 inches. Most interlock step installations in Burnaby use concrete pavers that match or complement an existing driveway or walkway — expect $25-$40 per square foot of step surface area.

Burnaby's clay-heavy soils in many neighbourhoods require extra attention to drainage and base preparation. Clay doesn't drain well and expands when wet, which can shift step foundations over time. Proper excavation typically extends 12-18 inches below the finished step height, with geotextile fabric separating the clay subgrade from the compacted gravel base. A perforated drain pipe at the base of the steps, connected to the storm drain or a dry well, prevents water from pooling behind the steps during Metro Vancouver's heavy winter rains.

Additional costs to consider: If the existing concrete steps are part of a larger porch or landing that also needs replacement, costs can reach $8,000-$15,000. Handrail installation (required by BC Building Code for steps with more than 3 risers or a total rise over 24 inches) adds $800-$2,000 depending on material — aluminum, wrought iron, or stone pillar options. Lighting integration for safety adds $500-$1,500. If the new steps are wider or positioned differently than the original concrete steps, you may need a building permit from the City of Burnaby, particularly if the work affects the required setback from the property line.

Timing matters in Burnaby's climate. The optimal window for this work is May through October when drier conditions allow proper base compaction and polymeric sand activation. Winter demolition and reconstruction is possible but requires tenting or tarping to keep materials dry, which adds 10-15% to project costs.

This is definitely a job for professionals. Concrete demolition requires specialized equipment (electric or pneumatic jackhammers, concrete saws, debris removal trucks), and building structurally sound steps requires precise excavation, proper drainage design, and knowledge of BC Building Code requirements for step dimensions and handrail attachment points. Poor step construction creates serious safety hazards and liability issues.

Need help finding an interlock contractor experienced with step demolition and reconstruction? Vancouver Interlock can match you with qualified professionals in Burnaby for free estimates on your project.

---

Looking for experienced contractors? The Vancouver Construction Network connects homeowners with qualified professionals:

• Vancouver Safety Surfacing Ltd
• I love kitchens LTD
• Heilman Renovations