Outdoor Stairs Made of Natural Stone

Styles

• The most natural looking stone stairs consist of stones set into the ground. The stones should have natural edges and some texture on top, although they should be flat. Alternatively, stones can be cobbled together for a rustic countryside feel. Stairs don't need to have a wall, but on long sets of stairways, a wall can serve as a safety provision and beautiful the landscape. In a small garden, however, a wall might block scenery you wish to reveal. Flaring the steps out at the bottom gives you another stylistic option.

Placement

• Stone steps leading up a slope create a practical way to navigate the hillside, while creating a sense of connection between spaces. On a high hill, rather than leading straight up without breaks, the steps should have a series of platforms where people can pause and enjoy the view. If the steps meander by turning first one way and then another, then back again, they'll look more natural and be less steep. Even on a smaller slope, the meandering, platformed stairway has a graceful, natural look. A sweeping arc of stone stairs provides another alternative to the standard vertical series of steps. Placing shrubs, ferns, grasses or flowers along the side of the steps will help the stairs to blend in with the landscape while also helping to control erosion.

Stone Cuts and Types

• You'll come across some common terms for stone cuts as you look for the right stone. Fieldstone is any uncut stone from your area, and it looks the most natural of any type of cut. Flagstone is a flat slab of stone, usually cut from granite, limestone or sandstone, sometimes with rough edges. Meanwhile, Belgian blocks have a brick-like shape. As for stone types, bluestone has a bluish-gray tint, sandstone comes in an array of red and brown tints, and granite has a mottled or marbled look in a variety of colors. Slate also comes in numerous colors, but has a sleek look. Limestone comes in various shades ranging from bluish-gray to rosy brown, and has a less polished look. Slate becomes slippery easily, so avoid it for stairs, says Gordon Hayward in "Stone in the Garden." Consider what colors look natural in your landscape, and beside your home, when choosing stones.

Building Tips

• To prevent erosion, use half-buried support stones. With a stepping-stone style pathway on a gradual slope, these might be the only stones you need. A low retaining wall on each side will help to control erosion, too. Consult a landscaper to assist with drainage on a slope with saturated soil. To provide a sturdier base for a steep slope or more elaborate stairway, use a foundation of concrete and gravel beneath the steps. Lay Belgian blocks side by side as risers, with broad, flat stones on top of them, mortaring between all the stones.