How to Build a Set of Steps

When building a set of steps, you must first find the height of the slope so that you can work out how many steps will be needed, and the correct riser and tread measurements.

How to Measure a Slope

You can make an approximate estimate of the height of a steep bank by standing at the bottom and relating it to your own height. However, for a more accurate measurement, you will need to use a pole, straight-edged plank and spirit level.

Place one end of the plank on the ground at the top of the slope.
Position the pole vertically at the other end of the plank, bringing the plank to a horizontal level by centring the bubble in the spirit level.
Mark the level of the plank on the pole and record the measurement from the mark to the ground.
For a very tall bank, it may be necessary to repeat this technique several times down the slope. Each time, place the end of the plank in the position previously occupied by the foot of the pole. By adding the vertical measurements together you can work out the fall of the whole slope.

Calculating the Step Dimensions

Decide on the width of your step tread, and use the riser/tread calculation to work out your riser depth. Divide the height of one riser (plus the depth of the paving slab and mortar) to find how many steps you will need. You may need to slightly adjust the height of the steps to fit the slope.

Create the Step Foundations

Fix a row of pegs along the slope to indicate the position of the risers and then run strings across to mark the fronts of the treads. Dig out the earth to form a series of earth steps, compacting the soil at each tread.

Dig a trench along the front of the base riser 15 cm (6in) deep and twice the width of the bricks. This trench should extend along the sides of the step tread. Check that the base is level and the sides vertical.

Soak the trench with water and allow it to drain, then add 7.5 cm (3 in) of hardcore in the bottom and tamp it down. Pour in 7.5 cm (3 in) of concrete, slicing into the mix with a spade to work it in and dispel air bubbles. Tamp the surface down with a length of timber - leave the surface rough as a key for the mortar for the first course of bricks. Allow the concrete to harden completely for a few days.

How to Build the Base Step

When the footing has set, you can begin to build the first riser. Lay the bricks along the footing using masonry mortar (1 part masonry cement to 3 parts soft sand) to bed them in. Use a straight edge and spirit level to check that they are level. Backfill the step behind the riser with hardcore or sand and gravel to the height of the bricks and tamp down firmly.

Lay a bed of mortar 1 cm (1/2 in) thick on top of the riser and lay the first tread. Set it so that it slopes forward slightly (to shed water) and so that it overlaps the riser at the front by 2.5-5cm (1-2in).

Completing the Flight

Mark the position of the second riser on the first tread and mortar the bricks in place. Backfill and set the treads as before. Continue in this manner until you have completed the remaining steps.