Build concrete stairs with the help of a stair stringer.
Cement is only one of the ingredients that go into making concrete, which is what you need to make a set of stairs. Using a stair stringer from a home improvement center or lumber yard will help you create the mold for your steps and eliminate most of the complication from the job. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Dig out a spot for the steps, using the shovel to make the area completely level. The area should be completely free of moisture.
2. Stand the stair stringers up to form the two sides of the stairs. Tap shims into the ground on either side of the stringer to hold it upright. Prop a piece of lumber along the outside to support the weight.
3. Cut lumber to fit across the front of the stringer. The lumber will form the front face of each step. Cut the lumber with a saw. Attach the wood to the front of the stringer with deck screws.
4. Saturate a rag with cooking oil. Spread cooking oil on the inside of the form. This will make it easier to remove the boards once the concrete is set.
5. Place one part cement, three parts gravel and two parts sand in a bucket or wheelbarrow. Stir the components to mix. Stir in small amounts of water until you have a thick paste.
6. Pour the mixture into the stair mold. Run the trowel over the top of each step to smooth it out. Let the stairs set for 48 hours. Unscrew the lumber from the front of each stair and pull off of the concrete. Remove the stair stringers.
7. Brush the entire set of stairs with a stiff bristled brush to remove any irregular debris and smooth the surface.
8. Apply a thin coat of sealer with a roller. Let the sealer dry to the touch and apply a second coat. Let the sealer dry overnight.
Tags: coat sealer, each step, front stringer, stair stringer, stair stringers, stairs with
