Building Concrete Steps for Your Yard or Patio

Building concrete steps up to a shed or deck can be easier than building them from pavers or timbers. It can be easily accomplished with a little time and hard work. This article outlines the plans for building concrete steps with a 6 inch riser and a 30 inch tread. This is the typical size for most steps. You can adjust the height and size according to your specifications for your own concrete steps.

Dig rough steps 4 to 6 inches deep into a slope. You will also need to dig 6 inches past the outside layout lines and 6 inches past the tread depth for each riser. At the fronts and backs of all your treads you will also need to dig a footing for the base of each tread. Build a set of 3 sided forms and use stakes to hold in place with each form overlapping the other by 6 inches. Work from the bottom to the top step.

Start by laying out the step where you want them, then dig and place in your forms. Rip 2x8's to 6 inches wide and cut to length at 36 inches. Attach each form to 2x4 or 1x4 stakes with duplex nails. Level the steps from one side to the other. Make the two sides slope downward ½ inches. You can accomplish this by placing a ½ piece of wood under the level. Make adjustments as necessary and attach to the stakes.

Install the next form so that it overlaps the next by 6 inches. This will give you a 30 inch step. Use a string line to help align the steps. Make sure you remove the line and stakes before you pour any concrete. Attach each form to the other using duplex nails. Continue with each step until you have reached your desired height.

Mix and fill the forms with concrete. Fill from the bottom step first and mix enough for one step at a time. This is so you don't over exert yourself and the concrete hardens in the bottom step before you have a chance to finish it. Screed each step using a 2x4 board. Slip a pointing trowel in between the form and the concrete to help in removing the forms later on.