When it comes to steps, they are one of those structures that we don’t give much thought to. In fact, we traverse them seamlessly, whether we are involved in a conversation, lost in our music, or carrying packages, and sometimes all three. Unfortunately, many properties without steps are not even, making it hazardous to move from one level to another. This can become quite tiresome for the avid gardener, and for property owners with small children or elderly relatives, it can create an unsafe situation. To eliminate the risk and create a beautiful transition piece, adding steps is a great solution.

It didn’t take mankind long to figure this out, and the first stairs are traced back to 6,000 BC. They were used in Turkey, Mesopotamia, and Egypt during that era. In 55 BC, the Chinese built the first granite stairs, 7,200 of them, leading up their sacred mountain in Tai Shan. In one of his stories, Confucius speaks of climbing a ladder to the top of Mount Tai for religious reasons, and we see the use of stone steps in the Pyramids, Ancient India, and mentions in the Bible.

Today, we can add beauty to function with a custom set of outdoor steps. For many years, the material of choice was poured concrete. Homeowners found these dull, and due to the porous properties of concrete and the damage caused by exposure to the elements, alternative materials became more popular. Landscape professionals now install more stone staircases than concrete. Stone creates a more natural flow by blending into the landscape, is more durable than concrete, and much easier to repair. Rather than tearing out a full step, creating a form and repouring concrete, replacing a stone or paver is less time-consuming and simpler. In overall costs, stone steps are the more cost-effective choice.

• Stone - The word stone is a pretty generic term, and there are many different types to choose from. The popular choices are granite, fieldstone, and flagstone. They are available in many colors and need very little maintenance, just a timely cleaning to remove moss or dirt buildups. They are extremely durable, as proven by the present-day existence of the historical stairs.

• Brick -For a classic look, brick is the top choice. They make an excellent transition from a porch or patio to a walkway and are available in many colors that can blend with most existing structures. Bricks are also very durable.

• Pavers - If you are looking to create a unique pattern in various shapes, sizes, and colors, pavers offer many design options. They have a non-slip surface but may require a bit of maintenance. It is suggested to reseal them annually.



• Wood - Wood is the least expensive of the choices but is less durable than the stone options. They can be painted and stained and generally require a bit more maintenance. To avoid some issues, we use element-friendly choices like redwood and cedar or pressure-treated.

Whatever your material of choice, call Stone Age Masonry to build you a beautiful staircase while improving the functionality of your property. We are Northern Virginia’s top outdoor living space contractors. Contact us today for an estimate.