DESKTOP
MOBILE
Plain concrete steps are a staple of functional outdoor design, but their appearance and safety can be significantly improved with the right finish. In areas exposed to rain or high foot traffic, texture is key.
Broom finishes create a lightly ridged surface that enhances grip underfoot. Exposed aggregate, which reveals decorative stones, adds visual interest and better traction.
Coloured oxides can be added to the mix to complement surrounding materials, or stencilled patterns can mimic the appearance of stone or brick.
Sealing helps protect the concrete from staining and weathering, but should be reapplied periodically to maintain performance.
Consider incorporating nosings or defined edges into step design to improve visibility and reduce the risk of tripping, especially in dim lighting.
Plain concrete steps are a staple of functional outdoor design, but their appearance and safety can be significantly improved with the right finish. In areas exposed to rain or high foot traffic, texture is key.
Broom finishes create a lightly ridged surface that enhances grip underfoot. Exposed aggregate, which reveals decorative stones, adds visual interest and better traction.
Coloured oxides can be added to the mix to complement surrounding materials, or stencilled patterns can mimic the appearance of stone or brick.
Sealing helps protect the concrete from staining and weathering, but should be reapplied periodically to maintain performance.
Consider incorporating nosings or defined edges into step design to improve visibility and reduce the risk of tripping, especially in dim lighting.
Related Articles
Materials for Steps in Coastal Areas
How to choose step materials that stand up to salt, wind, and moisture
Portfolios
View Industry Specialists
Askö
Furniture designed for life. Ethically made dining and living furniture and accessories by international and New Zealand designers where refined elegance meets sleek, contemporary form. Explore our extensive range of designer furniture via our Christchurch showroom or browse online.
Plumbing World
Plumbing World is New Zealand’s most prominent 100% Kiwi-owned national plumbing merchant, operating over 50 branches from Kerikeri to Invercargill. Plumbing World offers a wide range of bathroom, kitchen, laundry, heating, and hot water products, catering to trade professionals and homeowners.
Landmark Homes
Founding directors Paul and Debbie Clarke established Landmark Homes in 1977. Their vision was to offer “something more exciting” than the average home: a home that made creative use of space but was also beautiful to live in.
Poggenpohl
Poggenpohl is a premium German kitchen brand known for its innovation, timeless design, and precision craftsmanship, offering bespoke kitchen solutions that blend luxury with functionality.
Mastercraft Kitchens
Mastercraft was the brainchild of Murray Belz, a Chief’s supporter with an eye for design, a tonne of ideas and a passion for excellence.
Kitchen Studio
At Kitchen Studio we are very proud of the fact that we are been voted the most trusted kitchen brand in New Zealand for the ninth year running, and there are good reasons why more Kiwis trust us to transform their kitchen than anyone else.
Kitchen Things
Kitchen Things is a 100% locally owned and operated family business that pioneered European cooking in 1986. We specialise in high quality, premium European cooking appliances and our cooking range is complemented with dishwashing, refrigeration, laundry, sinks, taps and small appliances.
Portfolios
View Industry Specialists
Askö
Furniture designed for life. Ethically made dining and living furniture and accessories by international and New Zealand designers where refined elegance meets sleek, contemporary form. Explore our extensive range of designer furniture via our Christchurch showroom or browse online.
Plumbing World
Plumbing World is New Zealand’s most prominent 100% Kiwi-owned national plumbing merchant, operating over 50 branches from Kerikeri to Invercargill. Plumbing World offers a wide range of bathroom, kitchen, laundry, heating, and hot water products, catering to trade professionals and homeowners.
Landmark Homes
Founding directors Paul and Debbie Clarke established Landmark Homes in 1977. Their vision was to offer “something more exciting” than the average home: a home that made creative use of space but was also beautiful to live in.
Poggenpohl
Poggenpohl is a premium German kitchen brand known for its innovation, timeless design, and precision craftsmanship, offering bespoke kitchen solutions that blend luxury with functionality.
Mastercraft Kitchens
Mastercraft was the brainchild of Murray Belz, a Chief’s supporter with an eye for design, a tonne of ideas and a passion for excellence.
Kitchen Studio
At Kitchen Studio we are very proud of the fact that we are been voted the most trusted kitchen brand in New Zealand for the ninth year running, and there are good reasons why more Kiwis trust us to transform their kitchen than anyone else.
Kitchen Things
Kitchen Things is a 100% locally owned and operated family business that pioneered European cooking in 1986. We specialise in high quality, premium European cooking appliances and our cooking range is complemented with dishwashing, refrigeration, laundry, sinks, taps and small appliances.