Step Up Your Slope: The Best Materials for Outdoor Steps in Southern California
Sloped yards can be both a blessing and a challenge. On one hand, they add dimension and interest to your outdoor space. On the other, navigating them without proper pathways or steps can be tricky. The good news? With the right materials and design, slope steps can turn a challenging hillside into a functional and beautiful feature of your landscape.
As a design-to-build landscape construction company in Southern California, we often get asked: “What’s the best type of step for my slope?” The answer depends on your budget, style, and how much maintenance you want down the road. Below, we break down the most popular step materials—DG (decomposed granite), flagstone, wood, concrete, and metal edging—with their pros, cons, cost, and lifespan.
1. DG (Decomposed Granite) Steps
Decomposed granite is a go-to for natural hillside landscaping. These steps are often held in place with wood or metal edging for a clean shape.
Pros:
Affordable and quick to install.
Natural look that blends into gardens.
Permeable surface allows water to drain.
Cons:
Prone to erosion on steeper slopes.
Requires regular top-offs to maintain.
Not as stable as solid stone or concrete.
Durability/Lifespan: 5–10 years with upkeep.
Cost: Cheapest option for slope steps.
TAKE A LOOK AT ONE OF OUR DG STEPS PROJECTS BELOW:
PROJECT WONG / DG STEPS
PROJECT WONG / DG STEPS
2. Flagstone Steps
Flagstone is a favorite for Southern California backyards—timeless, rustic, and elegant. Large, flat stones are set into the slope for a naturally beautiful look.
Pros:
Stunning, organic appearance.
Extremely durable when installed correctly.
Unique character—no two stones are alike.
Cons:
Heavy and labor-intensive to install.
Higher cost compared to DG or wood.
Can be slippery if polished or wet.
Durability/Lifespan: 25–50+ years.
Cost: Moderate to high.
PROJECT WALKTER / FLAGSTONE WITH CONCRETE CAST
3. Wood Steps
Wood adds warmth and charm to a hillside, whether you’re going for a rustic trail feel or a structured, terraced backyard design. Redwood, cedar, or treated lumber are the most common choices.
Pros:
Natural, warm aesthetic.
Flexible design—works for different slope grades.
Mid-range pricing.
Cons:
Susceptible to rot, termites, and weathering.
Requires sealing and upkeep.
Can get slippery when wet.
Durability/Lifespan: 10–20 years with maintenance.
Cost: Moderate.
JOB BEN / WOODEN STAIRCASE ON SLOPE
JOB MATTHIAS / WOOD STEPS
4. Concrete Steps
For homeowners looking for modern, sleek, and durable steps, concrete is the top choice. It’s also one of the longest-lasting materials in landscape construction.
Pros:
Highly durable—built to last decades.
Can be poured in custom shapes and finishes.
Low maintenance once installed.
Can mimic stone with stamping or staining.
Cons:
Higher upfront cost.
Installation requires expert skill.
Less “natural” compared to wood or stone.
Durability/Lifespan: 50+ years.
Cost: Most expensive option but longest-lasting.
JOB TJ
JOB WALTER
5. Metal Edging with Gravel or DG Steps
Metal edging, typically steel or aluminum, is often paired with DG or gravel to hold its shape and create modern-looking slope steps.
Pros:
Clean, crisp, contemporary style.
Holds loose materials in place.
More affordable than stone or concrete.
Cons:
Metal can rust over time unless treated.
Not ideal for very steep slopes.
Gravel or DG still needs periodic maintenance.
Durability/Lifespan: 10–20 years depending on metal type.
Cost: Budget-friendly but slightly more than plain DG.
JOB MERRILY / METAL EDGING & CONCRETE