Question
Hi Mr. Murphy -
My question relates to creating a set of stone steps to climb a hill on my property that's an uneven 30-40% grade and about 12ft high. My property is covered with trees (although the path I have in mind is clear) and the grade leads down to a creek. I'd like to make this a simple project with a result that blends into the surroundings, like it's been there for years and years. A very informal look. Rises of 6" or so, but runs of varying length, 12-18". Can this be as easy as taking a shovel to the hill, digging out flat spots to put stones and backfilling just enough to secure the stones? Or, do I need more materials and maybe a professional hand? Thanks in advance for your advice!


Answer
Karen:
It sounds like a nice setting. The short answer is yes it is that simple.

But its not that easy. You'll need some pretty big rocks to ensure they don't move. Typically rocks should be 5-7" thick, 16-20" deep and 24 to 36" wide and will weigh several hundred pounds each. You can buy chopped steppers at most stone yards and they may cost about $40 each. You can also buy irregular field stones that approach these dimensions (These look more natural but are much harder to work with due to their uneven surfaces.).

You'll need a large steel pry bar, a 36 level, and a pick as well. You want to work from bottom to top. Dig out a spot for the first rock and make sure its level in both directions. Use some mason's sand to level small low spots.

Place the first stone and tamp it in place with a block of wood and a sledge hammer. (Place the block of wood on top of the rock and pound it down lightly to tamp it in place..don't hit too hard or you may crack the rock)

Repeat this over and over till you reach the top. You may want the stone to overlap the previous step depending on the look you want, step pattern or the grade you are working with. You may find roots in your path requiring a pick or axe to cut.

It is also important to make sure the path wont become the low spot that a lot of water runs across or it may all wash out.

You can hire a contractor to do this for about $100 per step in my area south east US.

Best of Luck
Sean J Murphy, LA,ISA, LEED AP
Please check out my blogs and articles on landscape topics like this on my websites.
http://www.seanjmurphy.com
http://amenityarchitects.com