If you can’t tackle a project like building your own steps, it’s time to call the pros. However, if you want to do it yourself and save some money, here are the steps you need to take in order to build a set of stairs out of pavers on an incline:
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Building steps out of pavers on a slope requires careful planning and execution. |
| It’s important to create a stable base and prevent erosion around the steps. |
| Paver steps on a slope can add value, safety, and aesthetics to your outdoor space. |
| Proper maintenance can help ensure the longevity and durability of your paver steps. |
| Additional resources are available for those who need detailed instructions or expert advice. |
Prepare the slope with a pro-grade slope preparation product
A slope preparation product is a chemical that creates a stable base for pavers to sit on. This is essential, because without it you’ll end up with a wobbly walkway or patio.
You should also use a professional grade slope preparation product if your slope has been graded in the past seven years, since these chemicals can help anchor existing soil and prevent erosion.
A pro-grade slope preparation product will be labeled as such. If you don’t have access to one of these products, make sure that the person who sold you your pavers does—and ask them for advice about which type of chemical to use in order to create level ground for your paver project!
Set up a temporary retaining wall
To build your temporary retaining wall, you will need to use wood, concrete or bricks. Wood is the cheapest option, but it may not be as sturdy as other materials. Concrete is both cheap and sturdy, but it’s also heavy to transport. Bricks are expensive but lightweight and easy to work with.
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Complete a sturdy gravel substrate
Before you build your steps, you’re going to need to complete a sturdy gravel substrate. For this, we recommend using a pro-grade slope preparation product that contains 1/2″ gravel and compacting it with a vibrating plate compactor. Take the time to ensure that your compaction is at least 95%.
Position the pavers in your design
This is the fun part! Use a string line to draw a straight line and to help you create a level grade. You can also use a spirit level (or some other method of ensuring that all pavers are exactly level) before starting any locking down of the pavers.
Center your design using one chalk line for each side of the step – this will allow you to easily mark out where each piece fits into place when laying them on top of one another.
Make sure your steps are well-aligned before moving forward with locking them in place.
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Use locking sand to secure the pavers
To ensure that your pavers don’t shift in place, use locking sand to secure them. The sand should be fine enough to keep the pavers from sliding.
It should also have a high clay content and some moisture retention so that it stays in place for as long as possible. Make sure that the sand you choose has good compressive strength so it can withstand heavy traffic.
Remove the temporary retaining wall
The first step to building steps out of pavers is removing the temporary retaining wall.
It’s a good idea to keep the gravel in place, even if you don’t need it for now—it can be used as backfill around your new retaining walls once they are built.
If you need help moving this much material, reach out to a landscaping company or landscape contractor who may have access to larger machinery such as tractors and backhoes.
If you do not have access to these resources, consider using wheelbarrows and shovels instead—this will take more time but still works well for small projects like this one.
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Fill in gaps with crushed stone dust
Spray or sprinkle the area to keep it in place while you work.
Use perimeter materials, such as brick pavers or natural stone, to finish off your steps. Place landscape edging on the sides of your steps for added stability and durability.
Spray or sprinkle to keep everything in place
Spraying water is the best way to keep pavers in place. The goal is to get the pavers wet enough that they can’t slide around, but not so wet that they’re too heavy or slippery.
Spray or sprinkle them with water, then allow them to dry for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.
Spray them again after installation and when you move them into position so they don’t shift while you’re working on another paver and cause gaps in your steps or walls.
“Properly preparing the ground for pavers is crucial for ensuring their longevity and stability. Find out how deep gravel should be for pavers and avoid common mistakes that could cause your pavers to shift, sink or crack over time.”
Use perimeter materials to finish off your steps
If you want to finish off the steps by using pavers, consider using a decorative edging material instead. By doing this, you can add more interest and color to the steps without having to worry about any sort of maintenance.
There are many different types of edging materials that can be used in this way:
Granite Path Edging is made from natural stone with a roughened surface that allows water to drain through it easily.
This is one of the most popular options for use in constructing steps because it looks great and is easy for people with disabilities to climb over or maneuver around. It’s also an economical choice when compared with other tile and brick options out there today!
Brick Border Tile has many benefits over other types such as being lightweight yet durable enough to withstand heavy loads placed upon it over time while still being aesthetically pleasing too thanks mostly due its attractive appearance which lends itself very well towards making pathway areas look nicer overall (especially if done correctly).
Place landscape edging on the sides of your steps
You can choose from a variety of options, including concrete or stone. If you have wooden steps, you can use landscaping edging made from wood. Some people like the look of stained glass to match their steps and this is also an option for you.
Landscaping edging will keep grass and weeds from growing up on your steps so that they remain looking nice and neat all year round.
If you are using paver stones to build stairs then it is important that you hide any wires that may be buried under the ground as well as any pipes or drains which might be in close proximity to where your new path will be located.
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Finish off with attractive potted plants or flowers on each step
- Use potted plants or flowers on each step for color and texture.
- Choose plants that are hardy in your climate, attractive to bees and butterflies, native to your region if possible, or have interesting foliage such as ferns.
- Make sure the container is large enough that the plant will not become root bound but also not so large that it will topple over when someone steps on it.
Conclusion
This is a great project for the beginning DIYer. It will take you some time to complete, but it will be worth it in the end when you have beautiful steps that will last a lifetime.
Further Reading
How to Install Pavers on Slope: A step-by-step guide on how to install pavers on a sloped surface, including tips on creating a stable base and preventing erosion.
How to Build Paver Steps into a Hillside: A detailed tutorial on how to build steps into a hillside using pavers, with instructions on calculating the number of pavers needed, creating a level base, and installing the steps.
How to Build Paver Steps into a Hillside: A comprehensive guide on how to build paver steps into a hillside, including information on preparing the area, laying the pavers, and finishing the steps.
FAQs
How do I calculate the number of pavers needed for building steps on a slope?
To calculate the number of pavers needed for building steps on a slope, measure the length and height of the slope and determine the size of the pavers you want to use. Divide the height of the slope by the height of the paver to determine the number of steps needed, and then multiply this number by the length of the slope to determine the total number of pavers needed.
How do I ensure that my paver steps are stable on a slope?
To ensure that your paver steps are stable on a slope, it’s important to create a stable base by excavating the area and adding layers of gravel and sand. It’s also important to use the correct type and amount of adhesive to bond the pavers together and to the base.
How can I prevent erosion around my paver steps on a slope?
To prevent erosion around your paver steps on a slope, consider adding retaining walls, planting ground cover or shrubs, or using erosion control fabric to help stabilize the soil.
Can I build paver steps on a steep slope?
Yes, it’s possible to build paver steps on a steep slope, but it may require additional planning, preparation, and construction techniques. It’s important to consult with a professional or follow a detailed guide to ensure the safety and stability of the steps.
How do I maintain my paver steps on a slope?
To maintain your paver steps on a slope, regularly sweep and clean the surface to prevent buildup of dirt and debris, and remove any weeds that may grow between the pavers. Consider applying a sealer to protect the surface and prevent staining or fading over time.
I am Hellen James, a landscape architect. For many years I have written about landscaping for various publications; however, recently decided to focus my writing on personal experience as a profession.
