Stone steps: strong and beautiful and built forever

Custom Stone Steps in Asheville, NC

At Hammerhead Stoneworks, we build three styles of stone steps to help people move through Asheville’s steep mountain terrain: formal built-up, slab, and rustic. We build entry staircases that lead onto flagstone stoops and into homes. We also build steps that help people access driveways, gardens, and even their new patios! Our steps are strong and beautiful and last for generations. Explore the gallery below to see the many ways these simple styles can be integrated into a seamless and enduring design.

Stone steps in a wall lead through a garden

FORMAL STONE STEPS

A formal built-up stone step is usually made up of two different materials. One type of stone is used for the riser- the lift of the step. A second material- flat flagstone- is used to create the tread or walking surface. The tread usually overhangs the riser, enhancing the crisp lines of the staircase. This style is often preferred for the main entrance to the home, though it can be used in a garden setting to sublime effect. We use mortar and grout to create our built-up formal steps.

Project Portfolio: Formal Steps

SLAB STONE STEPS

Single large individual pieces of stone, cut to uniform sizes, make our second type of staircase. While less formal than the built-up style, slab steps are equally consistent, sturdy, and comfortable for walking. This style is excellent for providing access to commonly used areas and ideal for people who are creating their forever homes and gardens. Slab steps are predictable and safe and will last for decades. This style is laid dry, without mortar or concrete.

Project Portfolio: Slab steps

RUSTIC STEPS

The third type of step is more rustic, less uniform. It is best for providing access to limited-use areas: an informal garden, the start of a trail in the woods, to the hidden HVAC unit.

Stone Steps: Understanding Rise Over Run

Good steps are uniform in height and length (rise over run) and have a good walking rhythm. They should be predictable and easy to navigate. A staircase that begins or ends with an odd-sized step is awkward and can be dangerous.

The key to building a good set of steps is understanding the rise and the run. This matters for each individual step, but is even more important for the whole staircase. Knowing the starting height (the walkway or driveway for example) and ending height (maybe the porch or front door) shows us how many steps will be needed. Finding the overall length of the staircase allows us to organize and balance the step length or landings, if needed. We take great pride is how consistent, comfortable, and safe our stone steps are.

Many pathways require stone steps to climb the slope. By carefully crafting the steps and flagstone landings, we make pleasing paths that flow and fit seamlessly into the landscape.