Build A Concrete Step

Tools:

edger
2x4 boards
screws
concrete sealant
old paintbrush
carbide-tip hammer drill
carriage bolts
mixing tub
hoe or other tool to mix with
concrete float
scrap 2x4 to use as a screed tool
trowel
hammer
shovel
folding rule
pencil
power drill
circular saw
3-4-5 right triangle
safety glasses
dust mask

1. Measure and mark the space for your new step using a folding rule and a large right triangle (figure A). Then check the corners for square angles using a carpenter's square (figure B).

2. Next, use those measurements to build a frame in which to pour the concrete. In order to be sure water would run off the step in the rain, Henry suggested Suzie make the front of her step slightly lower than the rear. On the boards that would serve as the sides of her frame, Suzie marked the rear at 7" and the front at 4" (figure C).

3. Use a circular saw to the 2x4s according to your measurements and assemble them into a frame with screws (figure D). Be sure to wear safety glasses when cutting and drilling.

4. With the frame in place, you're going to install some carriage bolts in the concrete which will be under your new step. Mark about four equally spaced places inside the frame for these bolts and drill pilot holes for them using a carbide-tipped hammer drill (figure E).

5. Then dip the bolts in concrete sealant and put them in the holes. Next, paint the ground inside the frame with concrete sealant (figure F) to further help the new step adhere to the old concrete underneath.

6. Mix the concrete in a bucket or mixing tub according to the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Place a felt paper isolation barrier inside the frame next to the house (figure G).

8. Shovel concrete into the frame and spread it around evenly. Smooth the surface with a trowel (figure H). Tap around the frame with a hammer to remove air bubbles.

9. Use a 2x4 or other screed tool to level off and distribute concrete throughout the frame (figure I).

10. Add texture and traction to the surface by lightly brushing across the top of the concrete.

11. Slide a trowel around the edges of the frame to make the frame easier to separate from the concrete when it's dry (figure J).

12. Let the concrete dry 24 hours and remove the frame.

13. Spray the concrete down with water two times a day to keep it from drying too quickly.