How to Build Garden Steps
Garden steps are a great way to add functionality, depth and interest to your outdoor space. You may need steps due to uneven ground if your garden is on two or more levels, or you might require steps to access your front or back door. Even if functionality is your primary concern, it doesn’t mean your steps can’t look great and be an appealing addition to your garden.
In this guide, we’ll run you through how to build your own garden steps, covering everything from tools to installation.
Table of contents
What is the cheapest way to build garden steps?
How much do outdoor steps cost?
How do you build garden steps?
What is the cheapest way to build garden steps?
The materials are a good place to start if you are working to a budget and looking for areas to save money.
Railway sleepers: Using sleepers as risers or for the actual steps is a great way to lower your overall costs. Plus, they bring a warm, natural look to your garden. Always choose a pressure-treated wood to protect against decay.
Paving slabs/blocks: Paving slabs or blocks are a great option if your garden is particularly exposed to the elements. They are durable against heavy footfall and adverse weather conditions.
Deck steps: Composite decking is a popular choice for garden steps. They are durable, low-maintenance, easy to find, and offer a modern look in your garden.
It’s important to consider durability and maintenance requirements when choosing your material. Proper care will ensure your steps remain safe throughout the changing seasons and weather conditions. For example, regularly sweeping away fallen leaves in autumn and removing snow and ice in winter to keep your garden steps slip-free.
How much do outdoor steps cost?
The cost of building a set of garden steps depends on a few things: your chosen material, how many steps you need, whether you are building the steps yourself or paying for installation.
Our steps collection features a great range of materials and kits to suit all budgets.
The Paver Systems Stonemarket Arctic Granite Bullnose Steps in Glacier is our most cost-effective solution. They are designed to coordinate with the wider Arctic Granite paving range and come in a modern flamed finish with a bullnose edge detail.
Can you buy ready-made garden steps?
At Beatson’s, you will find a range of kits that make building garden steps a breeze. With various designs, you can find garden steps to complement your outdoor space or add contrast.
The Marshalls Fairstone Sawn Versuro Steps come in a 10 step kit pack with additional centre pieces to suit any size project.
How do you build garden steps?
Building garden steps can be a challenging but rewarding project you can tackle on your own with the right tools and careful planning.
Step 1: Plan and measure
The first step is to assess your garden’s layout and slope to determine the best spot for your steps. Consider the steepness of the slope and the proximity to any doors or key walkways. You will also need to calculate the number of steps you need. Here is a simple formula to work it out.
The formula for calculating the number of steps
Number of steps = total height divided by rise (the height of the step)
Here’s an example:
Say your garden’s total height difference is 1 metre (1000mm), and a comfortable rise tends to be 6 inches (approximately 152mm).
The number of steps = 1000 divided by 152 = 6.57 steps.
In this case, round up to the nearest whole number, so you will build 7 steps.
Next, you must calculate the horizontal distance (or span) the steps will cover. To do this, you must consider the number of steps and the length of each step (tread).
Total span = number of steps x tread
Here’s an example:
You’ve calculated that you will need 7 steps, and the usual tread depth tends to lie somewhere between 12-18 inches. Let’s say your tread depth is 14 inches (355mm).
Total span = 7 steps x 355mm = 2485mm (approx 2.5m)
In this case, the steps will cover a total distance of just under 2.5 metres. Consider the type of steps you will use, as bullnose steps have a slightly overlapping edge.
Step 2: Choose the right materials
As we discussed earlier, there are many materials you can use to build your steps, like pine decking, softwood sleepers, granite or slate paving, amongst others, each with its own benefits. Once you have chosen, ensure you have enough to complete the job and that everything is the right size based on your calculations.
Step 3: Prepare the ground
First, use stakes and string to mark the area and ensure you are happy before excavating the ground.
Excavate: Dig out the steps to the depth of each step’s rise, ensuring the surface is level before moving on to the next one. Use a spirit level for accuracy.
Compact: Next, compact the soil at each step to create a firm foundation. It’s especially important to do this if you are using heavier materials like paving slabs.
Install a base: if you’re using paving slabs, add a base layer of gravel around 2-3 inches deep to ensure proper drainage and prevent your steps from shifting over time.
Step 4: Laying the first step
- Lay the bricks around the three sides of the step – the front and both sides.
- Next, build the back wall of the step.
- Fill the void with a concrete mix.
- Use a spirit level to ensure the brick bases are level.
Step 5: Continue building the steps
- Continue building the step supports.
- Lay the step treads by adding a layer of mortar onto the bricks and concrete bed, then place the treads on top. Place the treads at a slight downward slope to ensure rainwater can run off the steps.
- Add risers by applying mortar to the back of the riser stone and pressing it against the vertical face of the step.
Repeat the process until all steps are in place.
Explore garden steps at Beatson’s
Ready to build your own garden steps? Start your journey by exploring the collection at Beatsons. With steps from leading brands like Global Stone, Marshalls and Paver Systems Stonemarket, your steps will have a professional finish to enhance your outdoor space. Browse our full garden collection for further inspiration and top-notch products.
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