Can you make steps out of pavers?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can definitely make steps out of pavers. Pavers are a great material for building steps because they are durable, provide good traction, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes that allow you to get very creative with the design of your steps. With some planning, a bit of math, and proper installation techniques, you can create beautiful and long-lasting paver steps for your landscape.

What are some benefits of using pavers for steps?

There are several advantages to using pavers to construct steps:

• Durability – Pavers are very durable and can withstand decades of foot traffic without showing significant signs of wear. They won’t rot, crack or warp like wood steps can.
• Traction – Pavers come in a variety of textures that provide good traction, even when wet. This prevents slipping and falling on the steps.
• Customizable – With the diversity of paver shapes, sizes, colors and textures, you can create steps that match your unique landscape design and aesthetic preferences.
• Low maintenance – Properly installed pavers require very little upkeep other than occasional sweeping or pressure washing.
• Affordable – Paver steps are relatively affordable, especially compared to steps made of natural stone, concrete or other materials. The pavers themselves are reasonably priced.

Using pavers is a great way to add decorative, functional and long-lasting steps to your yard or garden.

How to plan paver steps

Careful planning is crucial when constructing paver steps. Here are some important factors to consider:

• Step dimensions – Consider the rise (height) and run (depth) of each step. A common ratio is a 6-7 inch rise and a 12 inch run.
• Number of steps – Calculate how many steps you need to safely reach the desired height. Shorter steps are easier to climb than tall steps.
• Paver selection – Choose pavers that offer grip and durability. Consider color, shape and size options.
• Slope – Account for a slight slope (e.g. 1/8 inch per foot) to allow for drainage.
• Landing area – Plan a flat landing at the top and bottom of the steps for safety.
• Railings – Railings may be required depending on the overall height of the steps and local building codes.

It’s also a good idea to sketch the steps to visualize the design and required materials. Most importantly, ensure the planned steps meet local building code requirements.

How to calculate the materials needed

Once you have the basic plan laid out, you can calculate the materials needed to construct the paver steps:

• Measure the overall rise and run to determine the total number of steps.
• Multiply this by the surface area (tread length x tread width) of each step to get the total paver area needed.
• Add 10-15% extra to account for cuts and gaps.
• Measure and calculate the area needed for the landings at the top and bottom.
• Estimate the amount of base materials like gravel, sand and paver base panels.
• Don’t forget optional materials like risers, borders, sealants, etc.

Having an accurate materials list ensures you purchase enough pavers and supplies for the project without buying excess.

Tips for installing paver steps

Here are some key tips to properly install pavers steps:

• Excavate and prepare the soil beneath the steps, tamping it down firmly.
• Add and level a gravel base, compacting in layers. Use a vibrating compactor machine for best results.
• Install edge restraints to hold pavers in place. Use landscaping timbers, plastic edges, mortared blocks, etc.
• Add 1-2 inches of coarse sand. Screed and smooth the sand flat.
• Lay the pavers tightly together. Use spacers for consistent gaps. Cut pavers as needed for edges.
• Tamp pavers in place until level. Add sand or make minor leveling adjustments.
• Sweep sand into gaps between pavers until filled.
• For extra stability, use concrete adhesive between layers and along edges.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for sealing or finishing pavers.

Having a solid foundation, proper drainage and consistent gaps are keys to a long-lasting paver staircase. Take time to ensure the sub-base and pavers are level every step of the way.

Creative design ideas

One of the best aspects of paver steps is the ability to get creative with patterns, textures and colors. Here are some design ideas to consider:

• Mix and match paver shapes for visual interest
• Form patterns like circles, zigzags, diamonds, etc.
• Use borders, bands and accents with contrasting colors
• Incorporate creative riser designs in between steps
• Highlight stair edges with decorative stone or tiles
• Use lighting to illuminate the steps at night
• Add aesthetically pleasing railings or walls alongside the steps
• Use large pavers on lower steps, shrinking in size towards the top

Let your imagination run wild! Sketch designs on paper first to bring your vision to life. The right pavers and pattern can create steps that are a true work of art.

Maintenance tips

Pavers are quite durable, but some periodic maintenance will keep your steps looking like new:

• Sweep or blow debris from the steps often
• Remove weeds quickly to prevent roots from growing in gaps
• Add new polymeric sand to fill gaps that appear
• Clean set-in stains with cleaners compatible with your paver type
• Re-level any pavers that settle or become uneven
• Seal pavers every 1-5 years as needed based on wear
• Shovel snow carefully to avoid damaging pavers
• Repair cracked or damaged pavers as soon as possible

With proper care, your paver steps can stay looking great for many years to come! Be diligent about upkeep and make repairs quickly when needed.

Conclusion

Paver steps are a versatile, attractive and highly durable option for creating stairs in your outdoor landscape. With smart planning and installation, you can construct paver stairs customized to your space, design taste and usage requirements. Take advantage of the many shape, size, color and pattern options available. And be sure to prepare a solid base and sub-surface beneath the pavers for long-lasting stability. Your new paver staircase will upgrade your yard while providing safe access between elevations for years to come. Get started today on planning this functional and beautiful addition to your exterior space!