How to Make Brick & Mortar Steps

Make sure that the ground that you are going to build upon is compacted and level. You can use a tamper to do this. If you do not already have a tamper, you can buy one for about $40. Whatever method you use, it is important to begin your project on a solid and flat surface.

Pour a 1-inch layer of crushed rock into your frame. Use the tamper to compact this rock and make it level. If you are not going to use this crushed rock for reinforcement, this is the time to begin the concrete pour. Mix the cement, and pour it into the frame. Place the reinforcement bars into the cement in a crisscross fashion for the strongest base. Do this while the cement is just starting to dry. Use a screed to make sure the cement is level.

Place 1/2 inch layer of mortar on the concrete foundation after it has dried. Use the screed again to level the mortar. The screed should be clean and smooth when you use it again.

Lay the bricks down on top of the mortar while the mortar is still wet for your first layer of steps. Keep the bricks 1/2 inch apart for the mortar that you will be placing in between these bricks. After all the bricks are down, use your trowel and pointer to fill the joints with the mortar. Once the mortar is somewhat dry, but not entirely so, wash the excess mortar off the tops of the bricks.

Follow Steps 4 through 6 again for your second layer of bricks, but one step back. Do this repeatedly until you have as many layers of brick steps as are appropriate for your project.