How to Build a Garden Wall Step

Using Anchor Bayfield Step Block

Base Course
[A] Lay out the first course of the step run, using corner / step units close butted with the split end facing forward. The units should be laid this way to ensure a sufficient tread will be formed in the finished steps. When the full base course, including the wall blocks, has been laid, backfill and compact behind and along the sides of the corner / step units and wall blocks.

First Step Course
[B] Apply concrete adhesive to the top of the corner/step blocks, approximately 50mm in from the back edge of the units. Place the next course of step units, so the front edge (the face) of the step overlaps the previous step course by 80 to 100mm. Check the step units are level front-to-back as well as along the length of the step. Adhere each of the front of the corner/step units to the back edge of the preceding course with the concrete adhesive.

First Block Course
[C] Place standard blocks on the curve, maintaining running bond with the base course below.

[D] Measure and cut or split blocks to fit the space remaining between the step unit and the course of the wall. Use two blocks to avoid creating cut units which are less than 215mm long in size. Place the units in the wall, making sure that edges fit tight against both the step and standard units. Remove the rear lip on the blocks when necessary and fix all split or cut units with a concrete adhesive. Backfill and compact behind and along the sides of each course of step and wall units as each course is formed and laid.

Next step courses
[E] Position and form the next step course, following the same procedure as outlined below.

[F] Repeat these steps for each course of the wall, ensuring that the steps and wall blocks remain level and compaction takes place as each course is completed.

[G] If required, decorative flags can be used to give the step treads a contrasting colour and texture.