Garden steps are used in all weathers, often while carrying something. Steps that are too steep, too shallow, or uneven are uncomfortable and can be dangerous.
Outdoor steps can and should be more generous than indoor stairs.
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The proportion rule
Landscape designers often use a guideline: twice the riser height plus the tread depth should come to around 65 to 70 cm. A 15 cm riser pairs well with a 35 to 40 cm tread. Lower risers with deeper treads feel more relaxed.
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Keep them consistent
Every step in a flight should have the same riser height. People adjust their stride subconsciously after the first step, and a single odd step is a common cause of trips.
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Width and landings
- ✿Make steps at least as wide as the path that leads to them
- ✿Allow 1.2 m or more where two people may pass
- ✿Add a landing after every 8 to 10 steps on longer flights
- ✿Consider a handrail where steps are steep or used by older people
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Materials and safety
Choose non-slip surfaces: textured stone, brick, or timber with anti-slip strips. Smooth porcelain and polished stone can be treacherous when wet. Build in a slight fall on each tread so water runs off, and light the steps if they are used after dark.
This is general landscaping and garden information, not professional advice. Costs, regulations, and plant suitability vary by location. Call before you dig to locate buried utilities, and consult a licensed landscaper or engineer for retaining walls, drainage, and structural work.