How to Form Concrete Steps With Brick Outlines

Brick patterns can be etched into concrete surfaces such as steps or walkways by a process known as concrete stamping. Previous experience working with concrete and a knowledge of its properties are helpful for undertaking a concrete stamping project. It is not often within the purview of most do-it-yourself types, but it can be done with the proper tools, materials and processes. If you have any doubt about your abilities, consider leaving this to a professional.

Gloves
Shovel
Crushed gravel
Wheelbarrow
Tamper
Garden rake
Level
Wood for stair forms
Rebar or mesh wire
Concrete mix
Concrete stain or base color to mix
Screeding tools
Brick-patterned stamp mats, forms or roller
Plastic sheet for curing
Concrete sealer
Broom

Instructions

Preparing the Site
- 1
  
  A round-point shovel should be sharpened prior to digging if roots are expected.
  
  Excavate by shovel the area where the stairs are to be constructed. Dig out enough soil to accommodate at least 8 inches of compacted gravel for your base.
- 2
  
  Use a bow or landscape rake to spread out the gravel.
  
  Apply crushed gravel for the base. Add about 2 inches and rake out level.
- 3
  
  Limestone is a common material for crushed gravel.
  
  Tamp the first layer of crushed gravel. Add another 2 inches, rake out and tamp. Continue until you are back up to grade and have at least 8 inches of compacted base. Check with a level that the finished base surface is level.
- 4
  
  Decide if you will be filling under each step when excavating.
  
  Prepare the forms for the steps. These should be constructed so that both stair tread and riser will be well defined. Cutting them out ahead of time is advisable.
- 5
  
  Rebar is available precut in many sizes.
  
  Install wire mesh or rebar into the forms. This will add stability and strength to the concrete and increase the useful life of the steps.
Pouring the Concrete
- 6
  
  Add adequate moisture to the concrete mix so it doesn't dry and crumble.
  
  Mix the concrete in the wheelbarrow near where it is to be poured. Add the base color to the mix if you want homogeneous color throughout the steps.
- 7
  
  Forms should be installed in place securely.
  
  Pour the concrete mix into the step forms. Pour only enough that it can be stamped before it dries.
- 8
  
  Screeding is done with hand tools to give the surface a level appearance.
  
  Screed the concrete. This is done by making smooth motions across the surface of the concrete. This allows for a smooth, uniform surface.
- 9
  
  Color for concrete can be in powder form added to the mix, or liquid applied over top.
  
  Add concrete stain for color if color was not added to the concrete mix and if color is desired.
Stamping and Finishing
- 10
  
  A multitude of brick designs exist for stamping concrete.
  
  Stamp the concrete steps while the concrete is wet. If using forms, insert into concrete and use the level to ensure a uniform finish. If using mats, make sure to properly align so the seams do not overlap. If using a cylindrical roller with imprinted design, start at one edge of the step and roll smoothly and evenly to the other edge. Repeat for each step.
- 11
  
  Use white or clear plastic to cover the steps during the curing process.
  
  Allow the concrete steps to cure. This means they need to be left alone for up to one week before being used. You might need to use a plastic sheet to protect the steps from the elements while curing.
- 12
  
  Concrete sealer often is spread over the surface with a broom.
  
  Seal the steps with a concrete sealer after they have been adequately cured. Allow an additional week for the sealer to fully penetrate before using the steps.

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How to Form Concrete Steps With Brick Outlines

Instructions

Preparing the Site

Pouring the Concrete

Stamping and Finishing