DIY Network

Front Step Revamp: Setting the Bluestone Treads From "Rock Solid" episode DROC-113

After the cobbles have set up overnight, it’s time to set the bluestone platform.

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	Before demolition
	The front step after Derek and Dean's revamp

Materials:

Safety glasses
Chisel
Hammer
Heavy-duty crowbar
Heavy sledge hammer
Spade shovel
Mixing hoe with holes
Wheelbarrow
Trowel
Pencil
6' Level
Rubber mallet
Grinder with diamond blade
Measuring tape
Jointers
Paint brush
String
Rebar
Mason sand
Type S cement
Cobblestones (new or used)
Bluestone treads
Multiple bluestone

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

• Begin by setting the treads framing the platform first -- starting with the tread running parallel to the door threshold. Prop the treads up on top of two cobbles or bricks; this will make it easier to get your fingers underneath the stone. Mark the center point of the cobblestone row (figure A) -- this should be the same place marked earlier in the mortar. Then, mark the center of the first tread -- you will match up these two center points when setting the first tread. Make sure with your measuring tape that the area running from underneath the threshold to the top of the cobbles, when set with treads, will pitch slightly forward.

• Trowel 1/2 inch of mortar on top of the cobbles and keep the mortar back about a ½ inch from their face -- this will keep the mortar from oozing out to stain the face of the stone. Don’t skimp on mortar in the corners! Run your six foot level across the mortar before setting the tread to make sure it’s level and smooth (figure B).

• Set the bluestone tread on top of the mortared cobbles and align the two marked center points. Level the tread front to back and side to side and then make sure that the tread is exactly 4 feet off the house on both ends. Adjustments can be made by with a rubber mallet. Once you have your first tread where you want it, secure the front of the stone with a few shims placed in the mortar underneath. After the stone has set up, the shims will be removed, but in the meantime they’ll ensure that the tread doesn’t move while setting the other stones (figure C).

• Set the two side tread pieces (figure D) -- and make sure that the finished edge is facing out. Repeat the same process for setting the tread: begin with 1/2 inch of mortar, set the stone, check for level, and adjust with a rubber mallet.

With the treads set, it’s time to set the remainder of the bluestone platform: the multiple bluestone pieces!