How to Rebuild Brick Steps

Remove the current set of brick steps. If they are in severe disrepair, you may be able to pick up the bricks and toss them aside. Otherwise, use a large rubber mallet or sledgehammer to break up the bricks and mortar.

Dig out and hand tamp the area in which you plan to build your brick steps. Dig the hole in the shape of the desired steps and make it 4 inches wider and longer than the steps will be. The hole should be 4 to 6 inches deep to accommodate a concrete block.

Frame the hole with pieces of 2-by-4-inch boards to form a frame for the concrete block. Make sure the ends of the boards are flush so the concrete does not leak through.

Mix the concrete and pour it into the frame to the desired thickness. Allow the concrete to set and cure according to the instructions on the package.

Take the height measurement from the concrete base to the surface to which you are building the brick steps. Divide this measurement by six to determine how many steps you need; this calculation allows for a 6-inch rise between each step. Calculations may differ depending on the thickness of the bricks you use, so it is best to experiment with the bricks themselves to determine the exact arrangement you will use.

Mix the mortar according to the instructions on the packaging and spread a 1/2-inch layer over the entirety of the concrete base. Use a trowel or screed, a flat board, to spread and level the mortar.

Lay the first row of bricks by individually pressing the bricks into the mortar, then gently tapping them with the rubber mallet to secure them in place. Leave 1/2 inch of space between each brick; stagger the bricks between rows so the center of the bricks in one row is aligned with the space between two bricks in the next row.

Fill the spaces between the bricks with mortar, pressing it into the crevices with the trowel. Spread another layer of mortar on top of the first row of bricks, covering the entire bricked area except for the space designated for the bottom step.

Lay another layer of bricks in the mortar and fill in the gaps between the bricks. Add another layer, building up the bricks until you reach the desired height for the second step.

Spread another layer of mortar on top of the bricked area excluding the space designated for the first and second steps. Place a layer of bricks to begin the third step and continue the process of filling in gaps with mortar and laying new rows of brick until the steps are complete.

Allow the mortar to set slightly; before it completely cures, go over the bricks with a stiff brush to remove any excess mortar. You also may use a concave jointer tool to clean up the joints.