How to Build Brick Steps

There’s no need to pay for a carpenter when you can build brick steps yourself. Using these tools and following the directions will allow you to make one with ease.

The Necessary Tools and Materials

Screed (for aligning concrete)
Mortar
Bricks
Concave jointer
Cement
A regular size hammer
Bolster
Mallet
Trowel
2 x 4 wood (any type)

Note: if you want to replace the existing stairs, just remove them instead. Trying to repair them will take too much time. It will be easier to start from scratch. If you are making it for the porch, use the shovel to smoothen the ground. Remove any obstacles like rocks before putting in the cement.

Framing and Mixing

Start with the framing. Arrange and cut the 2 x 4 as necessary and then use it to outline the perimeter.

The next step to build brick steps will be the mixing and pouring of the cement. Just follow the guide on the concrete package. After pouring use the screed to level the mixture. Let it dry sufficiently.

Measuring the Steps’ Height

Use a measuring tape to determine how high and how many the steps need to be. For the porch, start measuring from the ground to the porch itself. The height (or rise) of each step will determine how many you need to make. Usually the rise is 6 inches.

Preparing and Layering the Bricks and Mortar

Before using the bricks they need to be wet. Use a hose or a damp cloth. It is best to do this a couple of hours before using them. To prepare the mortar to build brick steps follow the instructions as given in the container. Once the mortar has been mixed pour onto the concrete base. If necessary use the screed to smoothen them out.

Put the bricks in place with half an inch of space between each. Use form bars to help you align them properly. The mallet can also be used to place them on the mortar.

Get a trowel and use it to get some mortar. Put them between the brick spaces. Repeat the process for the next layer. After all the steps are in place, use a concave jointer to add the final details to the joints. If necessary use a brush to remove excessive mortar.

Warnings

When you build brick steps, you might consider using a rebar. This is used to fortify the steps. This is not always necessary but some use it especially if the steps will be high or numerous. Another helpful tip would be to have a slight pitch. By having this on the tread rain will not pool in. This will prolong the life of the structure. Properly made, these will endure climate changes but having a slight pitch will help a lot too.

To have a more polished look you can put a bolster right on the edge lines. Use a hammer to cut them. This may be necessary since these materials tend to run off to the edges.

The best way to learn to build brick steps is to go out there and do it. In truth it sounds more complicated than it actually is. When you try it out you’ll be surprised at how simple it is to make.