How to Build Paver Steps into a Hill

Mark the outline of the first step's footprint. Dig down to the required depth, accounting for the thickness of the paver base material (e.g., compacted gravel) and the pavers themselves. The excavated area should be wider than the planned steps to allow for retaining the sides. Ensure the bottom of the excavation is level.

If using a retaining edge, such as landscape timbers, heavy-duty plastic edging, or concrete blocks, secure it firmly around the perimeter of the excavated area. This edge will help contain the gravel base and provide a stable edge for the pavers. For timber or block edges, ensure they are level and plumb.

Add a layer of coarse gravel (e.g., crushed stone or paver base material) to the excavation. Spread it evenly to a depth of 4-6 inches. Compact the gravel thoroughly using a hand tamper or a plate compactor. Repeat in 2-3 inch layers until the desired base depth is reached and it is firm and level, slightly below the final paver height.

Add a layer of coarse sand (e.g., coarse masonry sand or concrete sand) over the compacted gravel. Aim for a consistent thickness of about 1 inch. Use screed rails (pipes or lumber) to strike off the sand to a perfectly level surface, ensuring it is slightly below the final desired paver height to account for paver thickness.

Place the first paver onto the sand bed, pressing it down gently. Use a rubber mallet to tap it into place, ensuring it is flush with the retaining edge (if used) and level. Continue laying pavers for the first row, maintaining consistent joint widths (typically 1/8 to 1/4 inch). Check for levelness across multiple pavers and along the row.

Lay subsequent rows of pavers, staggering the joints between pavers by at least one-third of a paver's length. This 'running bond' or 'offset' pattern provides structural integrity. Ensure each paver is level and firmly seated in the sand. Check for alignment with the previous row and maintain consistent joint spacing.

For the vertical 'risers' between step treads, you may need to cut pavers to size. Use a wet saw or a specialized paver saw to make precise cuts. Measure carefully before cutting. Ensure cut edges are clean and smooth. Secure cut pavers with construction adhesive if necessary, especially for risers.

For each step, first install the riser pavers against the back of the previous tread. Ensure they are plumb and securely set. Then, lay the tread pavers for the current step on top of the sand bed, ensuring they are level and firmly seated. Use construction adhesive to bond risers to treads if desired for extra stability, particularly on steeper slopes.

Once all pavers are laid and any necessary cuts are made, sweep a fine polymeric sand or regular paver joint sand across the surface of the pavers. Work the sand into all the gaps and joints between them. Ensure all joints are completely filled.

Use a plate compactor with a protective pad (or a hand tamper for small areas) to go over the entire surface of the paver steps. This vibration will settle the pavers into the sand bed and help lock them together with the joint sand. Make multiple passes in different directions.

After compacting, sweep away any loose excess sand from the paver surface. If you used polymeric sand, you may need to lightly mist the surface with water according to the manufacturer's instructions to cure the sand. Clean the surrounding area of any debris.