How Much Does It Cost to Replace Brick Front Door Steps?

Alison Kasch
Written by Alison Kasch
Reviewed by Robert Tschudi
Updated February 23, 2022
Large brick classic traditional house
Photo: Ursula Page / Adobe Stock

Highlights

  • Replacing brick front steps typically costs $20 to $30 per square foot.

  • Ornate designs can cost as much as $100 per square foot.

  • DIY-ing this project is possible but requires advanced expertise.

  • Improper installation can lead to premature cracking and crumbling.

  • With the right care and installation, brick front steps can last hundreds of years.

Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.

Most brick front step replacement projects will cost between $20 to $30 per square foot depending on the type of brick you choose. When it comes to replacing your front steps and adding to your curb appeal, you can’t go wrong with the classic look of brick. You also have the option of adding accents with veneers and antique bricks, which can drive up costs. Whatever your vision is for your project, we walk you through potential costs below.

How Much Do Brick Steps Cost per Square Foot?

Your cost to replace brick front door steps will typically range from $20 to $30 per square foot. Ornate designs can go as high as $100 per square foot.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Brick Front Door Steps Yourself?

Large entrance porch with columns and brick trim
Photo: Iriana Shiyan / Adobe Stock

Brick steps are an advanced-level DIY, so proceed with extreme caution. Using the wrong materials can lead to crumbling and premature wear, so it’s important to do your homework before you get started. Be sure to research your area’s code requirements to ensure your stairs have the proper width and riser height. 

If you’re fully prepared to take on this project, here are the tools and materials you’ll need:

MaterialCost
Concrete mix (60 lbs)$15
Bricks$250–$800 per 500-brick pallet
Trowel$6
2x4 lumber$6 each
Screed$75–$90
Mortar mix (60 lbs)$6
Mallet$7
Mason’s line$3–$15
Masonry jointer tool$7–$12

Total: $371 to $953

Again, this one’s a toughie if you don’t have any experience. If you’re at all uncertain, get in touch with a local mason to help you get it done right.

“The best choice for a DIYer is to take on the things that you can do, such as removal of railings and demolition of an existing staircase,” says Bob Tschudi, Angi Expert Review Board member and Raleigh, NC-based general contractor. “You’ll find that masonry contractors will be happy to let you do the muscle work so that they can focus on rebuilding.”

Breaking Down the Cost of Brick Steps

The cost of replacing your bricks steps will come down to labor and materials. Here’s how these will play into the numbers on your bill.

Labor

Most masons charge around $40 to $75 per hour, with a typical minimum fee of $200 to $400 that will cover the first few hours of labor.

You can also ask a pro for a fixed rate. “We always ask for a fixed price to do demolition and rebuilding,” says Tschudi. “If you pay hourly, things tend to slow down a bit and you’ll pay a lot more than you anticipated.” 

While this tacks on higher expenses, the expertise of a pro will ensure your front steps are safe, durable, and structurally sound.

Materials

Brick prices range from $0.50 to $5 apiece, depending on style and material. Classic clay usually goes for less than $1 per brick, while concrete can go as high as $5 per brick.

How Much Do Different Types of Bricks Cost?

Red bricks are the first image that comes to mind when you think of brick steps. Although these are classic, there are other options if you’d like to get creative. Here are the main types of brick you’ll have to choose from.

Red Bricks

Red bricks are typically made of clay and will cost $0.40 to $0.90 per brick or between $400 to $900 per every 1,000. These are your classic brick with a timeless look—and durability to boot.

Face Bricks

Face bricks are thin bricks that usually go for about $1.20 to $1.80 apiece. While they aren’t used for support, these are decorative veneers that can add different colors and textures to your brick steps. Consider adding these atop the bricks on your risers for extra visual effect.

Antique Bricks

Antique bricks are much pricier, costing between $7 to $10 per brick (or possibly more). Still, they offer unique and rare features that will make your bricks steps one-of-a-kind. Matching bricks to your historic home will add character to your exterior, but also adds time and costs to your project. What you’ll pay depends on factors, such as color, firing method, stamping, and the history behind them.

Cost Factors for Replacing Brick Steps

There are several factors that will impact your cost for this project. These include:

  • Removal of existing steps

  • Size and number of stairs

  • Type of brick used

  • Rates of the mason you hire

  • Building additional structures around your brick steps, such as a paver walkway

Frequently Asked Questions

With proper upkeep, your brick steps can last hundreds of years. Cracks in mortar may start popping up after 20 to 30 years, but these are fixable by chipping out the old mortar and replacing it through a process known as repointing.

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.