Materials:
Lumber
Wheelbarrow
Ready-made stringer
Concrete
Sawhorse
Rebar
Hoe
Level
- Find the center of the area where you will be building the step, then measure half the step's width on either side of the center (e.g., if the step is to be 5 feet wide, make a mark 2 1/2 feet to either side of the center). Then measure 6 inches down from the top for the first riser and mark a chalk line at that level.
- Cut off the bottom treads of a ready-made stringer if you wish to have fewer steps.
- Cut a piece of lumber to fit the desired dimensions of the steps. Then adjust the sole plate of your saw to 45 degrees and bevel one edge; rip the other side to 6.5 inches.
- Use short widths of 2 by 4 to square off the edges of the stringers (figure A), attaching them with pieces of 1 by 2 and screws (this will help keep the concrete inside the form).
- Attach the risers to the stringer with the beveled edge pointing down and to the front.
- If the ground underneath is uneven, use a shovel to dig out soil until you have a level base for the steps.
- Once the ground is level, use a hammer-drill to make holes in the porch foundation, then insert rebar in the holes to anchor the steps (figure B).
- Mix the concrete with water in a wheelbarrow until it reaches the proper consistency. Then pour it into the form.
- When the lower step is filled, use a magnesium concrete float to smooth it. Smooth all the concrete and let it set overnight. (If you wish to add a neater edge to the steps, wait about an hour for the concrete to dry, then use an edging tool and water to smooth the edge (figure C).
- Tap the form with a hammer to make sure it isn't sticking anywhere. Then remove the screws holding the form together and take the form away from the concrete.
- Smooth any rough edges with a concrete sanding block and water.
Note: To order the new HGTV's Complete Fix-It book, see Resources, below.
RESOURCES :
HGTV's Complete Fix-It
Author: HGTV
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