How to Build a Footing for Paver Steps

Concrete Slab

• 1

  Determine the dimensions and placement of your staircase. The concrete slab footer will match these dimensions.

• 2

  Dig a trench 6 inches deep and 2 inches wider than the slab on all four sides.

• 3

  Tamp the ground with a tamper so it is level and solid.

• 4

  Cut four pieces of lumber to match the dimensions of the slab. Use a circular saw. The lumber should be 6 inches wide and 1 inch thick.

• 5

  Nail the four pieces of lumber together to form a rectangular frame for the concrete slab. Use straight, warp-free lumber.

• 6

  Lay down the frame in the center of the trench.

• 7

  Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions. Mix the concrete in a 5-gallon bucket and use a concrete mixer drill attachment.

• 8

  Pour the concrete into the wooden frame. Fill the wooden frame halfway with concrete.

• 9

  Lay rebar into the concrete to form a grid.

• 10

  Fill the rest of the frame with concrete.

• 11

  Use a squeegee or a piece of long, straight lumber to level the concrete. Push excess concrete around to fill any spaces that may need more concrete.

• 12

  Let the concrete cure for at least 24 hours.

• 13

  Remove the frame from the concrete slab using a pry bar to loosen the boards.

• 14

  Fill in the extra space in the trench with loose soil and tamp it down.