Brick & Stone Steps Repair & Build

Steps and stairs are some of the most used features on your property. They're also among the most dangerous when they're damaged or poorly built. Loose bricks, uneven treads, crumbling mortar, and wobbly handrails create serious safety hazards for you, your family, and visitors. One misstep can lead to injuries and potential liability.

Here in Salinas, CA, we see step damage from multiple sources. Age and weather wear down mortar and brick. Water infiltration causes bricks to shift and settle. Poor original construction leads to premature failure. Tree roots can push steps out of alignment. Whatever the cause, damaged steps need immediate attention.

At SLM Salinas Masonry, we specialize in repairing and building brick and stone steps that combine safety with aesthetic appeal. Whether you need to fix a few loose bricks or build an entirely new stairway, we have the experience and skills to do the job right. Every step we build meets current building codes and passes inspection.

Step problems rarely fix themselves. Small issues become major hazards if ignored. Here's what we commonly see and repair:

Loose or Missing Bricks

When mortar deteriorates, bricks lose their support and become loose. Walking on loose bricks can cause them to shift suddenly, creating a tripping hazard. Missing bricks leave gaps that collect water and accelerate damage to surrounding areas. We remove loose bricks, repoint the mortar joints, and reinstall or replace the bricks properly.

Settling and Unevenness

Steps settle when the foundation underneath fails. This creates uneven treads where water pools instead of draining. Uneven steps are dangerous to walk on, especially in wet conditions or at night. Fixing settlement requires addressing the foundation, not just patching the surface.

Crumbling Edges

Step edges take the most wear and tear. When mortar or brick edges crumble, they create an unfinished look and expose interior materials to damage. Sharp edges can also cause injuries. We rebuild edges with durable materials and proper techniques that resist future wear.

Safety Features We Always Include

Building codes exist for good reasons. Our step construction includes:

• Consistent riser height throughout the stairway
• Proper tread depth for safe foot placement
• Non-slip surfaces even when wet
• Adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation
• Proper foundation to prevent settling
• Handrail installation when required by code

New steps should do more than just provide access. They're architectural features that affect your property's curb appeal and value. We design steps that match your home's style while meeting modern safety standards.

Material selection makes a big difference in appearance and longevity. Brick steps offer classic appeal and can match your home's existing brickwork. Natural stone creates elegant, timeless entrances with unique character. We can also combine materials, using stone treads with brick risers for visual interest.

For properties with multiple levels, we design step systems that integrate with landings, retaining walls, and existing hardscaping. This creates a cohesive look throughout your landscape. We also consider practical factors like how you'll use the steps, whether you need to move furniture or equipment up and down, and accessibility requirements.

Our construction process starts with proper excavation and foundation work. Steps need solid support that won't shift or settle. We pour concrete footings when necessary and build up from a stable base. Each tread is set level and properly sloped for drainage. Mortar joints are tooled for weather resistance and long life. The result is a stairway that looks great and lasts for decades with minimal maintenance.