Home Improvement...first the stairs...

You may recall from a previous post seeing the destruction of the previous stairs. Please make special note of the various tools for measurement and leveling in the picture. If anyone ever tries to do brick work for you without these tools, tell them "no thank you."


When your bricklayer begins assembling your job, make sure he begins his work on a level base of concrete at least 3-4 inches thick. "NOW you tell us!" :-)


When filling any columns, make sure your bricklayer uses cinderblocks, not dirt, broken bricks, beer cans or other garbage.
"D'uh!"


When your bricklayer builds your columns, he should make sure they are level, even if your porch or the rest of your house isn't. The only time you want a bricklayer to make your job unlevel is if you are the owner of the leaning Tower of Pisa.

When building your stairs, start with the last tread first and work your way back and up. Continuously monitor the height and level of each riser for consistency, eveness of the mortar and depth to make sure your last riser meets the porch. (Sounds obvious, huh?)

Your job isn't finished until the last brick is laid, all the mortar and bricks are acid washed, and you've checked with the homeowners to make sure they are satisfied with the job.


Your front stairs are the first thing people see when they enter your home, make sure they know they're at the correct address. *smirk*

But wait! There's more! Stay tuned for the next post...