New back steps

[kyrielle]

The steps to the lower back yard are finally done. (For those who remember, yes, the original plan was to finish by mid-May, "weather permitting". Yes, this is the first time the freaking weather has permitted. It's been insane. But they did very quick, efficient, attractive work once mother nature actually let them have at it.)

Here are photos of it, first day one (all the framing done, but the gravel not in yet) and then the final product. I think they look pretty nice but I'll be happier when the yard around them is more finished also! Click through for larger views.

Comments

[tigerchild.livejournal.com]

They look great!

I like gravel a lot. I'd never thought about doing it for stairs though. It's really easy to maintain, and much cheaper to 'fix', and much more safe when wet, isn't going to have slimy moss on it, ect.

A friend of mine is looking to put in stairs in a similar location, I think I might tell her about this!

[kyrielle]

Just tried a walk down them too, they were GREAT. Very level, easy - the gravel was compacted down hard, I think, judging from how it didn't shift. Very, very nice. And they look good from all angles. So, so very pleased with them. They were a great solution to a space it was going to be really hard to get most other things (retaining walls) into, or where a composite decking set would look awkward.

Edit: One note for your friend, that's pre-treated, ground-contact wood, and they're anchored deeply at the bottom and at the corners that aren't attached to the next lower step (which are obviously just anchored to that step), to make sure they hold where they're meant to be. I was really pleased with the design, but even moreso with the end result!