Steps Using Reclaimed Small Element Sandstone Pieces
This very simple set of steps is one of several in this country cottage, with pathways leading around the garden with many changes of level. Constructed over a solid concrete base, with each step being connected with the next by a stepped foundation. As this project was a rebuild or restoration, the ground was very firm. If constructing new steps using similar materials, it is safer to add some 13mm steel reinforcing bars both horizontally and to connect the foundations as the project rises to prevent any cracking or movement.
The majority of the stone had been collected by the client, as discovered/dug up over the years, probably from old pathways, walls and other garden features, or indeed, simply from the ground, the site being a sandstone area.
The risers are built using a strong wet mix mortar backing each stone, with no cement showing to the front. The treads are added later, once the risers have set, as each stone is immersed in water for several hours before laying to ensure that a strong key or bond is formed between the laying mortar bed and the stone. Due to the porous nature of sandstone, it is essential that the stones do not dry out too quickly, and by soaking them beforehand, this problem is greatly reduced. If they are laid too dry, they will not be secure enough to be used as treads.
As per the previous project, except this set of steps is more formal in nature, they are created by utilising broken paving slabs and pieces or rubbish and reject stone, and turning them into something attractive and practical.
Strength is key on projects of this type, ensuring that all of the ingredients are firmly secured into position, by using plenty of strong wet concrete and mortar (as opposed to semi-dry or lean-mix type concrete foundations) as the steps must be connected or tied in with each other to prevent any element from working loose and causing a hazard.
Here, the risers have been constructed using a visible mortar bed, although heavily recessed to provide details of the stones. The stone forming the treads are submerged into water for several hours – until air bubbles cease showing – and laid on to a full wet bed of strong mortar, then fully pointed to ensure stability.
The maximum riser for this type of work is 200mm, and here, they are close to that height due to the required lift and width available for the feature. If a shallower step is required, the lower tread could have been extended into the lower lawn, although that would make life more awkward for mowing.
