The best material for outdoor steps for durability and low maintenance is concrete or granite. The surface can be flamed finish for an anti-skid surface.
On the other hand, composite steps are a great choice for a a better look with less messy work. And if you are looking for something with natural beauty, you can choose flagstone or any kind of natural stone steps.
Here is a list of some of the best materials for outdoor steps – safe and weatherproof:
- Granite
- Marble
- Stone
- Concrete
- Wooden
- Composite
- Metal
- Flagstone
12 Best Materials for Outdoor Steps
Outdoor Step Prices
Here is a summarized table with a list of the best materials for outdoor steps along with their prices.
| Material | Features | Average Cost per ft |
| Granite | – Super tough and built to last for decades- Doesn’t scratch or stain easily- Handles rain, snow, and heat like a pro- Looks really fancy and classy | $15 – $40 |
| Marble | – Absolutely beautiful with unique patterns- Needs more care and regular sealing- Can scratch or stain if not maintained- Great for a luxurious vibe | $20 – $50 |
| Natural Stone | – Includes stones like limestone and sandstone- Each piece has its own look and texture- Blends in beautifully with nature- Tough and long-lasting | $10 – $30 |
| Concrete | – Super strong and reliable- Can be poured into any shape you want- Can look like brick or stone with stamping- Easy to take care of and budget-friendly | $6 – $12 |
| Wood | – Feels warm and inviting under your feet- Can be painted or stained any color- Needs sealing to avoid rot or bugs- Cedar and redwood last longer | $8 – $15 |
| Composite | – Looks like wood but without the hassle- Made from recycled plastic and wood fibers- No need to paint, seal, or worry about rot- Super low-maintenance | $12 – $25 |
| Metal (Steel/Alu) | – Very strong and built for heavy use- Fire-resistant and long-lasting- Can get hot in the sun- Modern, industrial look | $10 – $25 |
| Flagstone | – Flat, natural stones with earthy charm- Each piece is one-of-a-kind- Textured surface helps prevent slipping- Rustic and natural-looking | $15 – $30 |
| Brick | – Classic, timeless design- Won’t rot, burn, or attract bugs- Very little maintenance needed- Has that old-school charm | $10 – $20 |
| Pavers | – Come in all shapes, sizes, and colors- Easy to repair—just swap out a piece- Great drainage and slip-resistance- Super customizable | $8 – $20 |
| Gravel (with edging) | – Natural and budget-friendly- Soft underfoot and blends with gardens- Needs good edging to stay in place- May shift over time or get messy | $4 – $10 |
| Rubber | – Slip-proof and soft to walk on- Great for temporary or safety steps- Made from recycled tires—eco-friendly!- Not the fanciest, but very practical | $5 – $10 |
Most Durable Materials for Outdoor Stairs
1. Granite Steps
Granite is one of the most durable materials that has been used for hundreds of years. It is incredibly hard, tough, and looks super elegant. Plus, it resists scratches, stains, and extreme weather like a champ. You will often see it in grand entrances because it just screams durability and class. We can say, it is perfect for high-traffic areas and offers an elegant, timeless appearance.
2. Marble Steps
It is stunningly beautiful with its unique veining. Well, marble is a bit more delicate than granite. If you are going for a very formal, luxurious look and are prepared for a bit more care, marble can be the best option for you. You must keep in mind that it can be a bit slippery when wet, so be alert especially during rainy areas.
3. Natural Stone
This category is broad and beautiful! Stone is a classic, natural material that fits well with almost any garden or home style. Many different types of natural stone like limestone, sandstone, and even river rock are easily available in the market for outdoor steps. It is durable, attractive, and offers great traction with its unique texture and appearance to your steps.
4. Concrete: Built to last
Concrete is one of the most versatile and affordable materials for outdoor steps. It is incredibly strong, durable, and surprisingly versatile. Plus, It is easy to customize so you can pour it into almost any shape, tint it with different colors, or even stamp it to mimic the look of stone or brick.
Additionally, concrete can be textured or treated with non-slip coatings to enhance safety.
What to Keep in Mind for Outdoor Steps
Climate and Weather Conditions
Your local climate is one of the biggest factors to consider when choosing materials because these steps need to handle whatever your local climate dishes out. If you live in an area with harsh winters, snow, and rain, you will need a material that can withstand freezing and thawing, like concrete or stone.
For hot and humid regions, stone can still prove to be quite durable to high rainfalls and heat.
Usage and Foot Traffic
How many people will be using these steps, and how often? Are they for a busy main entrance where everyone comes and goes, or a quiet path to a rarely used garden shed? The answers to these questions will also impact your decision.
For high-traffic areas you must use more durable materials, such as stone or concrete, while for low-traffic areas materials like porcelain might be suitable too
Aesthetic Preference (Modern, Rustic, Natural)
This is where your personal style comes in! Do you love the sleek, clean lines of a modern home, or are you drawn to the cozy look of a rustic cabin?
The style you need will also guide your decision. If you want a modern look, metal or composite might work best, while rustic, natural materials like wood or stone can create a more classic or earthy vibe.
Safety and Slip Resistance
Steps must be safe and comply with the safety regulations and guidelines. So, this is crucial, especially if you have kids, older family members, or if your outdoor steps are likely to get wet. Some materials are naturally more grippy, while others can become slick. So, must keep this point in mind while picking the right material for outdoor steps.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Some materials may be more expensive but they offer better long-term value while other materials like porcelain, may be cheaper initially. Moreover, materials like granite and stone can last much longer and require less maintenance in the long run.
Ease of Maintenance
So before you pick, think about how much time and effort you are willing to put into the steps to keep them looking best.
How to Make Outdoor Steps Anti-Slip?
If you have got steps outside, no matter whether they are stone, concrete, or wood, you will want to keep them in good shape.
Here’s how you can protect them and make sure they are safe to walk on, too:
1. Seal the Surface (Use Top Sealants)
One of the easiest and smartest things you can do is seal the surface. A good waterproof sealant keeps water from soaking in, which helps prevent cracks, stains, and fading. So, you must make sure you pick the right kind of sealer for the material. Whether it is wood, concrete, or stone, each of these needs its own type.
2. Anti-slip coatings
Steps can get slippery fast when they are wet. You can brush or roll on an anti-slip coating—it dries clear and adds just enough grip to help keep you steady. Great for spots that get slick in rain or snow.3.
3. Grip Tape (Anti Slip Tape)
If you need a fast solution or just want something temporary, anti-slip tape works too. It is easy to stick on, but just know it might peel or wear down faster than other options. Still, it does the job in a pinch.
4. Anti-Slip Finishes
Some coatings are made especially to add texture to surfaces like concrete or wood. These are more permanent than tape and don’t change how the steps look too much, which is a bonus.
5. Flaming the stone
If you are using natural stone, there is a method called “flaming” that adds texture to the surface so it is not so smooth. But this one’s a bit tricky as it has to be done properly, or you risk damaging the stone. So maybe call a pro for that one.
Standard Outdoor Step and Riser Size
When you are building outdoor steps, don’t just think about how they look. Rather, you must think about how they feel when you walk on them. So, this is why their shape and size also play a vital role and can make a big difference.
- Height (Rise): Each step should be around 6 to 7 inches high. Too high, and it feels like a hike. Too low, and it just feels off.
- Depth (Run): You must aim for at least 10 to 12 inches so you can easily move and avoid tiptoeing down your steps.
- Width: Wider steps look nicer too. It is also essential to make sure that your steps are wide enough to walk on comfortably. They are more welcoming, especially at the front of your home.
- Shape: Steps don’t have to be straight! You can go curved or winding if that suits your space better. Just follow the natural flow of your yard or garden.
Best Materials for Garden Steps
If you are dreaming of that cozy, natural garden path look, some stones are really standing out these days. Here are a few that people are loving:
Bluestone
It has got this cool blue-grey color and a slightly rough texture that looks amazing in the garden. It feels natural but still polished enough to give your steps a clean, stylish look.
Irregular Flagstone
These stones are not cut into perfect shapes, which actually makes them even better. They fit together like a puzzle and give your walkway a relaxed, whimsical vibe.
Cut Limestone
If you are into softer, lighter colors, limestone is a great pick. It looks simple and peaceful, and it really brightens up a garden path without trying too hard.
Granite (Natural Finish)
Super strong and tough, but with a rough, natural surface that looks great outdoors. It has that “tough but beautiful” feel and pairs perfectly with plants and trees.
Where to Buy the Best Material for Outdoor Steps From?
What is the best material for outdoor steps?
There’s no single answer to this as it really depends on your specific needs, but for durability and low maintenance, you can choose concrete or granite. On the other hand, composite steps are a great choice for a And if you are looking for something with natural beauty, you can choose flagstone or natural stone steps.
What are the most durable outdoor stairs?
Stairs made from granite, solid concrete, or high-quality natural stone (like hard limestones or quartzite) are generally the most durable outdoor stairs. The strength and resistance to weathering in these materials last for a very long time with minimal fuss.
What is the best material for non-slip outdoor steps?
Textured granite steps- either leathered, river washed, or flamed finish granite surfaces are the best – tried and tested material for anti-slip outdoor steps.
Textured concrete is another great option, especially if it is brushed or stamped. Stones with a rough finish, like flamed granite, are solid too. And if safety’s the main thing you’re after, rubber steps (often made from old tires) are super grippy and soft underfoot.
Feel free to get in touch for a free consultation, quote, and get a detailed understanding from our experts here at Petros®. Visit https://petrosstone.com/ or call +91-8446360361 and WhatsApp
Hello!
I’m Varsha, with a deep interest in architecture and years of content writing experience, I explore how natural stones like granite and marble shape beautiful, functional spaces. At Petros® Stone, I share insights that help readers appreciate the design potential and timeless appeal of stone.
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