brick steps

Getting Started

These stairs are as suitable for formal entryways as they are for steps up to an informal patio area. Within a couple of weekends you can be accenting these steps with colorful plantings.

6x6 timbers are a good choice: Their 5-1/2-inch dimension makes for an easy riser height. (Keep the treads 11-1/2 inches deep for a comfortable single pace between stairs.) If you use larger landscaping timbers, be sure they are not too rough for foot traffic. Pave the steps with SW (severe weather) brick (common brick probably will not be strong enough), or use concrete pavers.

Rent an oversize circular saw or chain saw to cut the timbers. In addition to basic carpentry and excavation tools, you'll need a 3/8-inch extension drill bit, mallet, baby sledge, brickset, line level, mason's line, and hand tamper. This involves some fairly heavy work; enlist help.

• SW (severe weather) brick, or bricklike concrete pavers
• 6x6 or 6x8 timbers
• Gravel
• Precut 2-foot pieces of 3/8-inch reinforcing bar (available from landscape material suppliers)
• 12-inch galvanized spikes
• Weed barrier: PVC sheeting or weed block fabric
• Coarse sand base
• Fine sand for filling between bricks