Garden steps ideas

[jicms]

We have to remove some very rickety old paving slab steps up a small slope between levels in our patio garden. We're trying to do a very basic DIY job ourselves. I've seen lots of suitable slabs but have no idea how to secure them to the soil without hopefully having to use concrete, ties etc. It only needs about four risers (there are too many). I was hoping we could buy something pre-formed but not seen anything suitable. Any ideas?

 

[John D v2.0]

I think they couldn't make all the different pre formed sizes as there would be so many options.
Concrete would be flexible in size and cheap and durable.
You could even mix that amount by hand (or get a strong helper)
Basically depending on the ground just need to dig out, hardcore up to just below level, edging/retaining to stop it collapsing, dry mix concrete base and tap the slabs into place.
There's probably a better method if you Google paving expert.

 

[cjard]

Dig it all out, down to a flat and level grade, then re-make it all using (a triangular stack of) concrete blocks, topped with paving stones. You can mortar the blocks together if you like; use a weak mix like 10:1 then they'll come apart again easily for later reuse/remodeling

 

[jicms]

Thank you for the replies. I was trying to avoid using concrete as we don't live in the property and don't have much equipment to hand. Yes I guess stacking up blocks could work without.

 

[Footsoldier888]

If you want something a little easier to handle than concrete blocks then you can use some frost resistant bricks under pavers.

 

[RayCaister]

Just use some decking steps ... http://www.diy.com/departments/step-deck-stair-kit/566195_BQ.prd

 

[John D v2.0]

using (a triangular stack of) concrete blocks, topped with paving stones.

Didn't think about blocks there

 

[cjard]

Just use some decking steps ... http://www.diy.com/departments/step-deck-stair-kit/566195_BQ.prd

Aye carumba; versus 10 - 15 concrete blocks at a quid each?!

 

[jicms]

I'm not too sure what concrete blocks look like if someone could send a link?! I'd happily pay £92 for the decking steps if they worked but I don't think the angle will be right or rather too steep as it's quite a shallow gradient.

 

[John D v2.0]

Here's an example although not the cheapest. Try a builder merchant for cheaper.
http://www.wickes.co.uk/Wickes-Medium-Dense-Block-7-3N-100mm/p/113504

 

[jicms]

I see thank you. We'll measure up and start digging out.