Add classic design style and instant curb appeal to your home by laying bricks on your exterior steps.
In both cases, the surface of the top step must be lower than the doorsill.
If the surface ends too high, you’ll have tochange the doorwayor redesign the steps.
Credit:Bob Stefko
This thickness is probably strong enough for mortared steps but may not satisfy local building codes.
You may have to change the number of steps to provide a thick enough base.
The forms provide edges that will keep the brick in line.
Credit:BHG / Michela Buttignol
Mortaring brick steps requires a poured concrete foundation that’s solid and has a surface in good repair.
Level the forms with the top edges a 1/2 inch above the top of the steps.
Cut 1/2-inch strips of plywood to the same length as the tread of each step.
Fasten each strip to two 6-inch lengths of 1x4 with the top edges flush.
Lay the strips on the top edge of the forms and fasten the 1x4s to the forms.
Lay First Brick Step
Set the first riser brick in place.
The joints on both the landing and the riser are 3/8-inch thick.
double-check the top of the brick is flush with the top of the step.
Butter the end of the second and subsequent bricks and set them in place.
When you have laid the riser bricks,set a levelacross them to confirm they are level and flush.
Spread mortar on the top edges of the riser bricks you have already laid.
Lay Bricks
Set the bricks on the tread, starting at the rear of the step tread.
Bed the brick in the mortar by tapping it with the end of thetrowel handle.
Remove the spacers as you go, and level the brick with a straightedge.
Mortared brick lends itself to various patterns.
Using whole brick will save you cutting time.
Let the mortar set thoroughly.
Then mix mortar for the joints.
Squeeze it into the joints with a mortar bag.
Fill the joints completely.
Smooth the horizontal joints first, then the vertical joints.
That way, rainwater will have a free path to flow off the front face of the brick steps.
Let the mortar set, then scrub off the excess with a wet burlap.
Allow the mortar to cure for five to seven days before you use the steps.
