The garden steps is not the same thing as your home’s stairs. This is probably the most crucial fact that you should know.
This mistake is made by even qualified architects. Even if your garden steps are being installed by architects or landscapers, you should know the basics.
After you have a good understanding of the facts and figures, it is time to choose the best design.
How steep can garden steps be?
You need to be familiar with the terms ‘riser and tread’. The riser refers to the height of each step.
It is where you place your foot.
The riser on indoor stairs is usually 17-18cm, and the tread 22-24cm. Handrails are required, as is a wall that supports you.
The height of the risers on outdoor steps shouldn’t exceed 15cm. The tread of the steps should be at least 30cm. As they are often without a handrail and walls, it is important that the treads be deep enough to allow for easy movement up and down.
What is the number of garden steps I require?
You’ll want to know how many steps you will need before you decide on the design. This is important because it affects your budget. If you want a 15cm riser, divide the height of the spaces that are being connected by the height desired. If you prefer lower outdoor steps that are flatter, you can use risers of 9-10cm.
Use a length of string on the highest level, which can be held or secured by someone. Check that it is level.
My garden, for example, has steps that lead from my terrace up to the lawn. The terrace is higher by 40cm. When we first moved into our home, the steps were already there. While writing, I discovered the height of the steps is slightly under 20cm. Although we’re used to this, it is a little steep. It’s probably because the two 20cm-high risers were more comfortable than three 9cm-high steps.
Decide how wide the steps should be. If you’re looking to create a feeling of spaciousness in your garden, then the more steps the better. Wide steps look great flanked by pots.
Our steps have three pavers per side, which means that six pavers are needed.
Gravel steps for the garden
You’ll want to make sure that the gravel doesn’t wash out.
Gravel heights can change, however, as gravel is removed by peoples’ shoes or settles. You may find the tread edge rising up as a result.
Stone steps for garden
Stone can be a very beautiful and durable (but expensive) choice. Granite, limestone, Yorkstone, or whinstone are all options.
You can choose between a finely finished finish or a rough-dressed one. When calculating riser dimensions, take into account the thickness of stone.
Stone-effect pavers can be made from concrete, or any other material. Before ordering, make sure they are suitable for outdoor use.
Brick Steps
Bricks are used for many different purposes. These bricks are durable and resistant to frost. When choosing bricks for steps, make sure they are suitable.
When choosing your brick steps, consider your home’s architecture. Consider that there are yellow and red bricks in the UK when selecting the colour of brick for your steps.
imber garden steps
Two problems exist with wooden steps. The timber rots with time, and becomes slippery when wet. If you are willing to maintain it, this is a cost-effective option.
The levels of creosote in railway sleepers make them unsuitable for use as steps.
Garden steps for steep slopes
Breaking up very long garden steps is generally deemed a great idea. It will be easier to climb and look more attractive if you include a ramp or a landing for a portion of the length. The ramps must rise with a slope of 1:12. This means that they need to rise by one metre every 12 metres.