Building outdoor stairs with cinder blocks is a practical and affordable way to improve access to sloped areas. It allows for a sturdy, durable structure without needing advanced skills or expensive materials. Cinder block stairs can be built quickly and cost less than traditional stone or wood steps, making them a smart choice for many DIY projects.
These stairs work well on uneven ground and can be customized in size and height to fit specific needs. Proper preparation, like leveling the ground and compacting the base, is important for stability and longevity. Using simple tools and common materials, anyone can create safe outdoor steps that blend well with their landscaping.
Whether for permanent or temporary use, cinder block stairs offer a strong solution that stands up to weather and heavy use. Knowing how to plan and build them properly reduces mistakes and helps avoid costly repairs later. Learn more about the process and tips for successful installation in this guide.
Learn more about building cinder block steps with this video.
Contents
Planning Your Outdoor Cinder Block Stairs
Before building outdoor cinder block stairs, it is important to plan carefully. The most critical measurement is the total rise, which is the vertical height from the ground to the top where the stairs will end. This helps determine how many steps are needed.
Each step usually has a rise (height) of about 7 inches. The stairway dimensions depend on the total rise divided by the height of each step. For example, a total rise of 28 inches needs 4 steps.
The depth, or tread, of each step should be at least 10 inches to provide enough space for safe footing. The width depends on the area and use, but typical stairways are between 3 to 4 feet wide.
It is essential to consider the length and width of the stairway to fit the space and conditions properly. A straight stairway design is simpler, but steps built on a slope may need additional leveling or support.
A solid, level base is important for durability. A concrete footer keeps the stairs stable and prevents sinking or shifting. Adding rebar and poured concrete inside the blocks improves strength, especially in colder climates with frost.
Detailed measurements before starting help avoid mistakes and extra work later. Planning the exact number of blocks, steps, and materials saves time and money during construction.
Learn more about building cinder block steps in this guide to build cinder block steps.
Gathering Materials and Tools
To build outdoor stairs with cinder blocks, first gather cement blocks or concrete blocks. These form the main structure of the stairs. Choose blocks that are uniform in size for a stable build.
Next, get mortar to hold the blocks together. Mortar creates strong bonds and keeps the stairs from shifting. Some builders use construction adhesive as an extra step, especially for light-duty projects, but mortar is the standard for durability.
Other materials include gravel or crushed stone for the base. This helps with drainage and keeps the stair foundation solid.
Here is a basic list of materials and tools needed:
| Materials | Tools |
|---|---|
| Cement or concrete blocks | Trowel |
| Mortar mix | Level |
| Construction adhesive (optional) | Rubber mallet |
| Gravel or crushed stone | Tape measure |
| Water (for mixing mortar) | Shovel |
| Pressure-treated wood (for forms, optional) | Wheelbarrow or bucket |
Having the right tools helps keep the work precise. A level ensures stairs are even, while a trowel spreads mortar smoothly. Measuring accurately prevents uneven steps.
Gathering all materials beforehand saves time. It allows focus on the building process without interruption. For more detailed ideas on block steps, see this guide to building block steps.
Building the Foundation for Stairs
The foundation is the most important part of building outdoor cinder block stairs. It needs to be strong enough to support the weight of the stairs and prevent shifting over time. A solid footing is essential for stability.
First, the area should be cleared and leveled. Any loose soil must be removed to avoid future sinking. Dig a trench that will hold the footings and the base of the stairs.
Footings are usually made from concrete. They must be poured below the frost line to prevent movement caused by freezing and thawing. The footing should be wider and deeper than the stair blocks to spread the load evenly.
After pouring the concrete footings, let them cure fully before starting to lay cinder blocks. Sometimes a concrete slab is used as a base instead of individual footings, especially for wider stairs. This slab must be level and thick enough to support the stairs.
To help with drainage, a layer of gravel or crushed stone can be added under the footings or slab. This reduces the risk of water pooling and weakening the base.
Proper drainage and correctly sized footings keep the stairs safe and durable. These steps prevent sinking, cracking, and shifting over time, securing the stair structure from the ground up.
More detailed tips on footing and drainage can be found in this guide on footings for concrete block stairs.
Constructing the Cinder Block Stairs
The first step in constructing outdoor cinder block stairs is preparing a solid, level base. This ensures stability and prevents shifting over time. The builder should dig out the area to the desired stair depth and fill it with compacted gravel or crushed stone.
Next, the cinder blocks are laid to form the risers and treads. The risers are the vertical part of each step, while the treads are the flat surfaces to step on. Blocks should be arranged so the risers are aligned and level on each step.
Mortar is used to bond the cinder blocks together. It is important to apply mortar evenly between the blocks, filling all gaps. This adds strength and helps the stairs hold their shape under weight.
Each block should be checked with a level before the mortar sets. This keeps the steps even and prevents uneven surfaces. For extra durability, mortar can be smoothed and any excess wiped away cleanly.
The builder continues stacking blocks to the desired height, alternating between constructing risers and treads. Proper spacing and consistent block placement ensure the staircase is safe and comfortable to use.
It’s helpful to keep a small hand tool on site for adjusting blocks or spreading mortar as work progresses. This improves accuracy and the overall finish of the stairs.
More detailed visual guidance can be found on videos like How To Build Cinder Block Steps.
Outdoor Stair Design Ideas
Outdoor stairs made from cinder blocks offer simple, strong, and flexible options for yards, porches, and patios. These stairs can be both functional and visually pleasing when designed with care.
One popular design is using cinder blocks as the main structure and adding a limestone veneer. Limestone gives the stairs a natural, clean look that fits well with most landscaping styles. It also adds texture and durability to the steps.
For a patio or porch setting, placing the cinder block stairs near garden beds or shrubs helps blend the steps into the landscape. This creates smooth transitions between different outdoor areas.
A basic design idea includes stacking cinder blocks to form risers and treads. The blocks can be filled with gravel or concrete to add stability. Then, the surface can be covered with paving stones or tiles for a polished finish.
Consider these features when planning:
- Width: Make stairs wide enough for safe walking, usually between 3 to 4 feet.
- Height: Keep risers uniform in height, typically about 7 inches.
- Depth: Treads should be deep enough to fit the whole foot, around 10 to 12 inches.
Adding plants or small decorative stones along the sides enhances curb appeal. Using cinder blocks this way offers a sturdy and affordable solution for outdoor staircases How To Build Cinder Block Steps.
Sealing, Finishing, and Maintenance Tips
After building outdoor cinder block stairs, sealing is important to protect the blocks from water damage. The surface must be clean and dry before applying any sealer. If the blocks are wet, the sealer will not stick properly and could peel off.
It is best to apply a waterproof concrete block sealer designed for masonry. This helps prevent moisture penetration and protects against mold and cracking. Follow the product instructions for temperature and drying times to get the best results.
Finishing the stairs can make them safer and more attractive. Adding a non-slip coating or textured paint improves grip, especially when wet. Staggering joints between blocks and using construction adhesive on caps can keep the structure stable and reduce movement.
Maintenance includes regular checks for cracks, chips, or loose blocks. Cleaning stairs with a mild detergent removes dirt without damaging the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals that can break down the sealer.
| Maintenance Tips | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect for cracks | Every 6 months | Repair small cracks promptly |
| Clean stairs | Every 3 months | Use mild detergent and water |
| Reapply sealer | Every 2-3 years | Depends on weather exposure |
| Remove moss or algae | As needed | Use a soft brush or pressure wash |
Proper sealing and upkeep will extend the life and safety of outdoor cinder block stairs. For detailed sealing advice, see this concrete block waterproofing guide.