Different Styles of Outside Cement Front Porch Stairs

Acid-Stained Cement

• When you start making cement step plans, consider acid-staining the steps as part of the application process. This acid staining, when done professionally, can dye the concrete a variety of colors and make it resemble other materials, such as stone. You will need to carefully seal the steps to keep the acid in, but you can still use the stain to achieve nearly any color combination you want.

Minimalistic Options

• If you prefer to skip acid staining, go the minimalistic route, opting for shallow, simple cement steps with smooth lines and no surprises. These work well next to open, clean porches and can help highlight nearby basins of water or plants. They also form excellent bases for working ivy or other vines across the steps for a greener look.

Curves and Terraces

• You do not need to make your steps out of right angles alone. Consider curving the front steps as they lead up to the porch to give them a more natural look. This works well with stone-like colors and stains. It can also help create areas at the ends of the steps for flowing flower beds that can be installed as part of the patio itself, like miniature terraces moving up with or alongside your steps.

Tiles and Stamps

• Concrete can be made into tile shapes or stamped very easily. This works well if you are using pavers or similar materials elsewhere and want to carry the effect up into your porch. Combined with coloring, using stamps to separate the concrete out into "tiles" can provide a variety of effects, from brickwork to stone tiles. Stamps can also be used to add designs and borders on the cement steps for extra detail.