How to Build Stone Steps for a Cottage

The Foundation

• 1

  Measure the height of the stairs from the ground to the front door of the cottage and the run, or the total length of the stairs. Calculate the number of stairs you’ll need for the distance. Mark the area of the run – the length and width of the steps on the ground – using stakes and twine, ensuring the lines are all straight.

• 2

  Dig down 6 inches, checking the depth with a tape measure; use a level when you get to the bottom to ensure the ground is even.

• 3

  Combine the cement mix with water and fill the hole to make the foundation. Check with a level to be certain the top is level in all directions, and leave for 24 hours to cure fully.

The Steps

• 4

  Mix up mortar mix and lay a course of 8-inch facing stone along the length of the run. Apply mortar to the sides and bottom of each facing stone and push into place, then tap lightly with a rubber mallet. Check the level and adjust as needed. Repeat on the other side of the run. Complete this first course by laying facing stone at the end of the run opposite the house. Fill with dirt course and tamp down until it’s level with the top of the facing stones.

• 5

  Apply mortar to the facing stones at the end of the run farthest from the house and for 16 inches along each side. Lay the first stone step in place. The step should be between 10 inches and 18 inches wide. Tap with a rubber mallet and check its level.

• 6

  Lay a second course of stone along the sides of the run, going from the house to the back of the first stone step. Fill with dirt, tamp down, then scoop out some of the dirt behind the step you’ve laid, so that facing stones laid in there would reach the same height as the courses on the sides. Level this area and lay a course of facing stones behind the first step.

• 7

  Apply mortar mix to the facing stones and lay the second stone step in place, tapping firmly with the mallet and using the level to ensure the step is straight. Repeat the process for all the other steps, ensuring you level each step properly. On the top step, mortar the back of the step in place against the house so water can seep down into the dirt fill.