The Entry unit consists of a precast concrete stairwell; made with Milan Vault’s tested and proven concrete, and a Gordon cellar door.   

NOTE:  As of September 1st, 2023; we will no longer be installing this product.  We will continue to make the pre-cast steps and have Gordon Doors in stock for you to purchase, we just ask for a 3-week lead-time for scheduling and availability.  

Sizing Information

Job Site Requirements

Cellar Door Entry Benefits:

• Adds building code compliant emergency egress.
• Provides direct access to mechanical equipment, reducing traffic and damage to the main level of the home.
• Allows large furniture, bulky appliances and patio furniture to be easily moved into basement areas
• Creates additional living space and sealable square footage.
• The Cellar Door Entry system works well on any new or existing concrete foundation.

Basic Installation Process:

• Holes for the special high-strength bolts are drilled through foundation.
• Facing surfaces are coated with self-sealing butyl resin strip sealant for a watertight seal.  The Cellar Door Entry precast stairwell is then lowered into position onto the foundation footing.
• Precast stairwell is secured prior to backfill through foundation wall using built-in steel anchors.  On a block or precast foundation, a permanent steel support is installed on a concrete slab underneath the precast unit.
• The Gordon Cellar Door is anchored to the precast stairwell and caulked.  The area is then backfilled and landscaped.

Advantages and Features:
Concrete Stairwell

• Made from the same NPCA tested and proven concrete as all of the concrete products Milan Vault produces. 
• Precast in one piece.
• Can be installed on poured concrete and concrete block foundations.
• Satisfies IRC 2015 Building Code requirements for emergency egress in finished basements.

Gordon Cellar Door

• Heavy Duty Sheet Steel (.090 - .105 thick) is hot rolled for extra strength and durability.
• Automatic Hold Open Safety Catch keeps doors open securely until you release them. Quick lift releases doors for gentle 
• Alkyd Resin Primer is uniformly applied by totally dipping doors and then baking which helps assure a smooth, long lasting final coat and weather protection.
• Field Proven Flange Design sheds rain water and snow just like flashing. Easier access to mounting holes makes installation faster and simpler
• Externally, Gordon basement doors have the capability of padlocking the handles together. Exterior keyed locks are also available.