NorthStar Steps

Custom Outdoor Steps & Landings

Helpful Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our custom outdoor steps, landings, materials, delivery, and pricing.

Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

Planning a custom project naturally comes with questions.

Here are answers to some of the things we are asked most often. If you do not see what you are looking for, the Project Estimator is a great place to get started.

Every project is custom-built
Small projects welcome
Pickup or NorthStar Setup
Built with craftsmanship

Getting Started

Planning Your Project

Yes! We welcome projects of all sizes, from a single step to larger custom stair and landing projects. Small and unusual projects are always welcome.

Yes. Every project is built to fit your specific dimensions and needs.

Absolutely. Many of our projects are custom-built to meet a customer’s specific needs. If you have a unique idea, tell us what you are trying to accomplish.

Besides traditional outdoor steps and landings, we have built projects for home inspections, mobile homes, sheds, hot tubs, RVs, horse mounting platforms, and other unique applications.

Built to Last

Materials & Construction

Pressure Treated: Our most economical option and an excellent choice for long-lasting outdoor use.

Cedar Tone: Pressure-treated lumber with a cedar-colored finish, offering the durability of treated wood with a warmer appearance.

Cedar Wood: Premium natural cedar with beautiful grain and natural resistance to decay.

Composite: A premium, low-maintenance decking option available in a variety of colors.

Yes. We recommend waiting until the following year before painting or staining new pressure-treated lumber. Fresh pressure-treated wood contains moisture from the treatment process, and allowing it time to dry helps paint or stain adhere properly and last longer.

That depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, and the look you are after. Each material offers different advantages, and we can help you choose the right option for your project.

Most of our projects are freestanding. This often minimizes changes to your property while providing a sturdy, dependable solution.

Building projects in our workshop allows us to work in a controlled environment with the tools and space needed to focus on quality craftsmanship.

It also reduces disruption at your home, allows for faster installation once your project is ready, and helps us work more efficiently—allowing us to offer custom-built projects at competitive prices.

Getting It Home

Pickup & Delivery

It depends on the size of the project. Many smaller projects are fully assembled before pickup or delivery. Larger projects may be built in sections for easier transportation.

If you are picking up your project and any assembly is required, we will walk you through the process, provide any necessary hardware, and make sure you know exactly how everything goes together.

Yes. Self pickup is available if you prefer. We also offer delivery and NorthStar Setup, allowing your project to arrive ready to place and use.

Yes. We offer delivery throughout our service area. NorthStar Setup is also available when you would like us to place the completed project in its final location.

NorthStar Setup means we deliver your completed project and place it where it is intended to be used, saving you the time and effort of moving it yourself.

Understanding Your Quote

Pricing

Every project is custom-built. Pricing depends on dimensions, materials, design, railings, delivery, setup, and other options.

The Project Estimator provides a personalized preliminary price range based on the information you enter. Final pricing may vary depending on your project’s specific requirements.

Some details—such as site conditions or final design adjustments—can affect the final cost. A price range provides a more realistic expectation before a final quote is prepared.

Good to Know

Additional Questions

That depends on the height of the project and your local building requirements. We can discuss your project and help determine an appropriate solution, but the property owner is responsible for confirming local code and permit requirements.

NorthStar Steps serves the Greater Twin Cities Metro Area and generally works with customers within approximately two hours of the Twin Cities, depending on project size and scheduling.

Still Have Questions?

Every project is unique. Use our Project Estimator to tell us what you need, upload photos, and receive a personalized preliminary estimate.

Start My Estimate