readyinform – Page 16 – Garden Motivation

If you are looking for a way to add some extra style and functionality to your garden, building some garden steps may be the perfect solution. To make garden steps pick a type of step you would like brick, stone and wood are among the most popular. Consider the cost of each option. A simple step can be formed buy digging a 6 inch deep surface 2 feet long 18 inches deep and packing gravel into surfaces. Or you can place a preform paver instead. Build your steps from the bottom up to avoid making them to steep. Types Of Garden Steps Brick steps: Brick steps are a popular choice for gardens because they're sturdy and look great. Plus, they're easy to maintain and can last for years. Stone steps: Stone steps are also a popular choice for gardens, as they add a touch of elegance and sophistication. They're also very durable and long-lasting. Wooden steps: Wooden steps are more affordable than brick or stone steps, but they require more maintenance. You'll need to seal them regularly and clean them often. Concrete Steps: Sturdy and long lasting but hard labor to pour. Earth: this is a simple ground cutout packed down. Ways To Make Garden Steps Stone steps: If you have a rustic or country-style garden, stone steps will look perfect. You can either buy stone slabs from a quarry or use stones that you collect yourself from around your garden. To make stone steps, start by marking out where the steps will go and then digging out the soil to a depth of about 15 cm (6 inches). Next, lay the stones on the ground, spacing them out according to your measurements before marking where they should be placed in the excavated area. If you are using concrete, refer to the instructions on the packaging for mixing quantities. Then pour it into each hole and wait for it to set. Even if you are not an experienced builder, this is a relatively easy job that can be done over one weekend. Brick steps: Brick steps are great if you want something more permanent which will not need frequent maintenance or replacement like natural stone can require. To make brick steps, first mark out where they should go using string stretched taut onto stakes hammered into either side of each step run. Ensure there is enough soil below the string to allow for the brick path you are planning to lay. Then dig out the soil to a depth of about 15 cm (6 inches) below where the string is placed. Next, mix concrete according to the instructions on the packaging and pour it into each hole. Finally, lay your bricks on top of the concrete quickly before it sets. You can easily make brick steps if you have some basic DIY skills and tools at home. Flat-pack garden steps: If you cannot handle heavy materials or work with builders' equipment, flat-pack garden steps might be perfect for you as they are more lightweight but still strong enough to carry people's weight. These are also easy to install without additional tools or knowledge, so they are ideal if you are a beginner DIY-er. All you need to do is follow the instructions that come with the steps, which usually involve measuring and cutting the parts to size before screwing or bolting them together. Concrete garden steps: If you want a modern look in your garden, concrete steps could be just what you are looking for. You can buy pre-made concrete steps or make your own if you have basic construction skills. To make your steps, start by marking out where they will go and then digging out the soil to a depth of about 15 cm (6 inches). Next, mix up some concrete according to the instructions on the packaging and pour it into each hole. Finally, place the pieces of concrete where you want them and leave them to set. Wooden steps: Wooden steps are a classic choice for the garden and can be created using reclaimed pieces of wood, so they have an authentically rustic look if that is the effect you are going for. If you do not like the idea of wearing DIY gloves or working with power tools, this might not be the best way to make garden steps as it requires slightly more work than other methods. However, if time and effort are willing to invest in your garden, these could be ideal for creating a stunning feature without breaking the bank. Earth steps: Finally, earth steps offer another less-structural method of creating stepping stones in your garden, which will help to avoid slips and falls. To make earth steps, use a shovel to shovel earth from one side of the pathway to the other, making sure each step is slightly elevated so people can walk safely on them. This is a very easy way to create natural-looking steps without doing any construction work. Cost of garden steps Garden steps can be expensive, with prices varying depending on the type of step chosen. Wooden steps are generally more costly than concrete or plastic ones, but they also tend to be more attractive and increase a home's value. Another factor to consider is how many steps will be necessary; if a garden is small, fewer steps may be needed than someone with a large space. Sloped gardens require different steps to navigate the incline, too, which can add to their cost. It's important to consider these three factors before purchasing to ensure you choose steps that are useful and affordable for your garden. If done DYI here is approximate cost per step. Wood $27 Concrete $35 Paver $ 3-5 Brick $14-21 Tips for garden steps Garden steps with a railing: This type of garden step will make the space safer and look more attractive. Make sure to install a sturdy railing that won't wobble or fall apart easily. Planting beds on top of old steps: This is an excellent idea if you have old staircases in your garden but don't want to spend a lot of money replacing them with new ones. Just cover the stairs with soil and plants, and you've got a brand-new feature for your yard! Next learn how to make a garden path to your new garden steps.