How to Build Retaining Steps

Preparation

• 1

  Cut posts, such as pressure-treated lumber, to the length of the width of the stairs. The recommended stair width is 8 feet. There should already be the start of a retaining wall, with a section removed for the addition of the stairs.

• 2

  Lay the first post, the "riser," behind and within the edge of the retaining wall. The posts are 4 inch by 4 inch pieces of lumber, laid horizontally on the ground.

• 3

  Dig 8 inches behind the first riser so the ground is level with the top of the riser. Fill the area behind the riser with dirt and tamp until it's firm.

First Tread and Second Riser

• 4

  On a flat surface, make the first tread, which is what the foot rests on, by nailing together three posts. Angle nail through two at a time, to connect the three.

• 5

  Place the tread on top of the riser and the level ground behind it. Hammer a toenail through the the front of the tread, into the riser.

• 6

  Dig 4 inches, at least, back behind the tread. Fill the space with dirt and tamp until firm, to make it level with the top of the tread.

• 7

  Set the new riser on top of the firm ground, directly behind the tread.

Side Boards

• 8

  Cut the side boards, with the dimensions 2 inches by 6 inches, out of treated lumber.

• 9

  Cut the boards so that the top of each is level with the top of the highest riser. Cut the ends of the boards flush with the posts on the retaining wall.

• 10

  Cut another piece of 2 inch by 6 inch treated lumber to fill the space between the new sideboard and the ground. The process repeats.