How to Build Steps Made From Interlocking Pieces of Decorative Concrete

Choose a day when the ground temperature is above freezing, from 35 F to 120 F. Clean the area where you will build the new steps, removing shrubbery and other materials.

Call the utility companies to check for underground water and gas lines. If the area is free of underground obstructions, dig out a 6-to-12-inch-deep area with the shovel. Compact the subsoil using a compacting machine.

Place down geotextile fabric if your soil is in a poor wet condition. Pour in crushed aggregate -- a mixture of stones -- to a depth of 3/4 inches to level out the area for the step. Mix the Portland cement with damp sand. Trowel a 1/4-inch layer across the aggregate, creating a smooth, stable base for the decorative concrete risers.

Lay out the risers in the pattern you want the step to look like. Cut any risers using a wet saw to fit into the desired pattern. Apply masonry adhesive between the interlocking units. Tamp on the tops of the risers with a rubber mallet to level the risers.

Add a decorative hanging tread border by drawing chalk lines on pavers in a 3/8-inch overhang. Miter corner pavers at a 45-degree angle with the wet saw as you begin to lay pavers at one corner and work your way around. Apply masonry adhesive to the bottom and sides of border pavers. Place in interior pavers for the top of the step.

Repeat the process for the next steps. Apply sealer after the masonry adhesive cures for 30 days.