How to Build Porch Steps From Landscape Blocks
- 1). Measure the height of the porch and divide that measurement by the height of the landscape blocks to find how many steps are necessary. Multiply the total number of steps by the depth of the landscape blocks to find out how far out from the porch the steps will extend. Plan the width of the stairs to be at least 2 blocks wide for comfortable treading.
- 2). Dig a hole in the ground where the steps will go. Dig the hole slightly larger than the determined overall depth and width of the steps. Make the hole 6 inches deep. Level and compact the bottom of the hole with a hand tamper.
- 3). Fill the bottom of the hole with 3 inches of gravel and tamp the gravel. Place a board with a level on top of the gravel to ensure an even bed.
- 4). Make the mortar. Combine 3 parts sand, 1 1/2 parts cement and 1 part lime in a wheelbarrow or a bucket. Lime will add plasticity and strength to the mortar. Gradually add water until a thick, pastelike consistency is created.
- 5). Cover the gravel layer with a 3-inch layer of mortar, spreading the mortar with a trowel.
- 6). Set the first course for blocks into the mortar. Spread 3/8-inch layers of mortar between the blocks. Tamp blocks gently with a rubber mallet to help them settle and lay a level over the top to check evenness.
- 7). Spread a 3/8-inch layer of mortar on top of the first course, stopping just before the front row of blocks. Lay the second course of blocks, subtracting one row of blocks from the front to create the first step. Add 3/8-inch layers of mortar between blocks. Continue upward until the last course is achieved.
- 8). Smooth down all exposed mortar joints by running the end of a wood dowel or a jointer tool down their lengths.
- 9). Cover the steps in plastic sheeting, and mist the stairs occasionally with water for at least three days to ensure that the mortar dries gradually and without cracking.