Exposed Aggregate Entrance Stairway - Apartment Building

Location

1960 Larch Street, Vancouver, BC

Project Type

Apartment Building Entrance Replacement

Scope

Complete demolition and reconstruction of entrance landing, staircase, and retaining walls

The Project

This apartment building owner faced a serious problem: the old tiled concrete entrance was deteriorating and creating a hazard for residents. Tiles were falling off, the surface was slippery when wet, and the entire entrance detracted from the building’s appearance.

They needed a solution that would minimize disruption to tenants while delivering a safe, attractive entrance that would last for decades.

The Challenge: Speed and Safety

Apartment building entrance projects require special consideration. Residents need access to their front doors, and construction noise needs to be minimized. Our ability to turn jobs like this around quickly reduces tenant complaints and discomfort by limiting the time they cannot use the existing front doors and the time they have to put up with construction noise.
The failing tile work wasn’t just an eyesore—it was a liability. The smooth tiles were slippery and dangerous, especially in Vancouver’s wet climate.

Our Solution

Complete Demolition

Used a Bobcat with hydraulic breaker to efficiently remove the old entrance, staircase, and retaining walls, minimizing disruption to residents.

Retaining Wall Installation

New exposed aggregate retaining walls were installed first—these structural elements had to be completed before we could form up the new stairway, landing, and walkway.

Exposed Aggregate Construction

Retaining walls complete, we poured the entrance landing, stairs, and walkway in textured exposed aggregate concrete for durable, safe, anti-skid access.

The Transformation

The old tiled entrance was unsafe, slippery, deteriorated, and unattractive, creating hazards and reducing the building’s overall curb appeal.

After demolition, we quickly built the retaining walls, then formed the stairs, landing, and walkway for the exposed aggregate pour.

The new exposed aggregate entrance enhances curb appeal while providing a textured, anti-skid surface that’s safer than the previous slippery tiles.

Why Exposed Aggregate for Apartment Entrances?

Superior Safety

Textured surface provides excellent slip resistance, crucial for high-traffic apartment entrances

Durability

Stands up to constant foot traffic and Vancouver weather without deteriorating like tile

Lower Maintenance

No tiles to replace, no grout to repair, no ongoing maintenance headaches

Enhanced Curb Appeal

Natural stone appearance elevates the entire building’s aesthetic

Fast Installation

Quick turnaround minimizes disruption to residents

Long-Term Value

Decades of performance without the liability issues of failing tile work

Project Highlights

Complete entrance demolition: landing, staircase, and retaining walls
Hydraulic breaker demolition for efficient removal
New exposed aggregate retaining walls installed first
Exposed aggregate staircase, landing, and walkway
Anti-skid textured surface for resident safety
Quick turnaround to minimize tenant disruption
Transformed building curb appeal
Eliminated hazardous tile work

Apartment Building Entrance Projects?

If your apartment building has a deteriorating entrance that’s creating safety concerns and tenant complaints, we specialize in fast, professional replacements that minimize disruption while maximizing safety and appearance.