How to Build Stone Landscaping Steps

Building stone steps enhances the functionality and beauty of a landscape. They add a rustic touch to a hillside garden and contrast to the colors and texture of plants. You can build landscaping steps yourself, but asking a buddy to lend a hand will help prevent back injuries caused by lifting heavy stones on a hill.

Wood stakes

Tape measure

Shovel

Sand

Compactor tool

Stone

4 2-by-6-inch timbers

Gravel

Walk the slope or hill and use wooden stakes to mark where you plan to install each step. Account for the height of the type of stone you plan to use as you measure the distance between each step. If the incline varies, you may want to follow a slightly curved path. If you’re building on a steep slope, try to plan a landing halfway up the hill or every 8 feet, so people can rest.

Remove vegetation from the path of the steps, beginning at the bottom of the hill. Dig into the slope at 90-degree angles to create level surfaces for the steps. The surface of the steps should be at least 5 feet wide so that two people can pass safely.

Spread a 2-inch layer of sand on the soil base of each step. Use a compactor tool to compress the ground so it will not shift once the stone is set.

Set your first stone in place at the base of the hill and use a carpenter’s level to check that it is even. Add or take away sand as necessary. If you are laying multiple stones at each level, work sand or pea gravel between the crevices and brush off the excess.

Set the remaining steps one at a time from the bottom up until you complete the first 8 feet of rise. If possible, create a wide landing where people can catch their breath or stop to appreciate the view. At the surface of the landing, dig down 7 inches. Build a square form with 2-by-6 inch timbers and fill the hole in with gravel. Compact the surface and lay stones in a straight row or pattern. Use sand or more gravel to fill in the crevices.

Continue placing steps until you reach the top of the slope.