Stone Steps vs. Wood – What’s Best for Your Waupaca Hillside?

Stone Steps vs. Wood – What’s Best for Your Waupaca Hillside?

If you live on or near one of Waupaca’s many lakes, rivers, or rolling properties, chances are you have a sloped yard. Whether it’s a gentle incline or a steep drop to the shoreline, you need safe, durable, and visually appealing access.

One of the most common questions we hear at TLC Lawns & Landscaping is:
"Should I install stone steps or wood steps on my hillside?"

In this guide, we’ll compare both materials, break down the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which option is the best fit for your property, your budget, and your goals.

Why Hillside Steps Matter

Sloped properties pose unique challenges. Without properly designed access, they can be:

• Difficult to navigate (especially for kids or older adults)
  
  
• Dangerous when wet or icy
  
  
• Prone to erosion or soil displacement
  
  
• A missed opportunity for beautiful, functional landscaping
  
  

Hillside steps are more than just a convenience—they’re a key structural and safety feature. When designed correctly, they also boost curb appeal, add usable space, and increase the value of your home.

Comparing Materials: Stone Steps vs. Wood Steps

Let’s break down the major differences between natural stone and wooden hillside steps across several key categories.

1. Durability and Longevity

Stone Steps:

• Extremely long-lasting
  
  
• Resistant to rot, moisture, and pests
  
  
• Withstands Wisconsin winters and freeze-thaw cycles
  
  
• Minimal maintenance over time
  
  

Wood Steps:

• Treated lumber can last 10–15 years, but may rot over time
  
  
• Susceptible to warping, cracking, and mold
  
  
• Requires sealing or staining every 1–2 years
  
  
• Not ideal in constantly damp or shady areas
  
  

Winner: Stone

If you're looking for a long-term solution, stone steps are the clear winner.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

Stone Steps:

• Offers a natural, timeless look
  
  
• Blends well with landscaping, gardens, and lakefront settings
  
  
• Wide range of stone types and colors to choose from
  
  
• Can be custom cut or rustic in style
  
  

Wood Steps:

• Warmer, rustic feel
  
  
• Can be painted or stained to match decks or fencing
  
  
• More flexible in design for curved or raised platforms
  
  

Winner: Depends on your taste

Stone fits well with natural surroundings, especially in lake and woodland settings. Wood may match better with existing structures like a wooden dock or deck.

3. Safety and Traction

Stone Steps:

• Naturally textured surfaces reduce slipping
  
  
• Can include built-in landings and handrails for support
  
  
• Doesn’t degrade under snow or ice
  
  

Wood Steps:

• Can become slippery when wet or covered in moss
  
  
• May warp or shift over time, creating tripping hazards
  
  
• Requires anti-slip treatments or treads
  
  

Winner: Stone

For year-round safety—especially on shaded hillsides or snowy winters—stone steps are more reliable.

4. Installation Complexity and Cost

Stone Steps:

• Heavier and more labor-intensive to install
  
  
• Requires professional excavation, grading, and compaction
  
  
• Higher initial cost, but little to no maintenance later
  
  

Wood Steps:

• Easier and faster to install
  
  
• Lower upfront cost
  
  
• May need replacement or repairs after 8–10 years
  
  

Winner: Wood for budget, Stone for long-term value

If you’re on a tight budget, wood might work. But if you want a set-it-and-forget-it solution, stone is worth the investment.

5. Environmental Impact

Stone Steps:

• Natural material, no chemicals
  
  
• Can be sourced locally
  
  
• Doesn't leach into soil or water
  
  

Wood Steps:

• Treated lumber contains preservatives (may affect runoff near lakes)
  
  
• Requires periodic sealing and staining
  
  
• May not be allowed near water in some areas without special permits
  
  

Winner: Stone

Especially for shoreline or environmentally sensitive properties, stone is the better, cleaner choice.

Local Tip: Many Waupaca Lakeside Properties Require Stone

At TLC, we often recommend stone steps for lakefront properties, especially those with:

• Steep inclines to the water
  
  
• Wet or shaded soil conditions
  
  
• DNR shoreline regulations or buffer zones
  
  
• Long-term homeowners who want durability
  
  

In many cases, we design and install custom stone steps with integrated landings, making them safer and easier to use.

Case Study: Hillside Stone Steps on Round Lake

In 2024, a Waupaca homeowner contacted TLC about rebuilding their old wood steps leading to the lake. The original stairs were uneven, slick in the rain, and starting to rot.

We removed the wood, graded the slope, and installed natural stone slab steps with pea gravel side paths, planting native grasses along the way. The result? A safe, attractive, and low-maintenance solution that the family uses year-round.

When Does Wood Make Sense?

While stone is superior in most cases, wood steps might be right for you if:

• You have a mild slope
  
  
• You're planning a temporary solution (selling soon or remodeling later)
  
  
• You need to match an existing wood deck or dock
  
  
• You're working within a tight budget
  
  

TLC can install pressure-treated lumber steps with proper drainage and reinforcements to extend their lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to install hillside steps?

Most hillside step projects take 3–7 days depending on slope, materials, and access.

Do I need permits for hillside steps in Waupaca?

If the project affects shorelines or navigable waters, yes. TLC handles permitting as needed and ensures full compliance with local and state regulations.

Can I mix materials (stone + wood)?

Yes! Some homeowners use stone for the base (where it’s most exposed) and wood above. We’ll design a hybrid that suits your budget and property.

Will stone steps shift or sink over time?

Not when properly installed. TLC uses base compaction, drainage control, and retaining walls where needed to ensure stability.

How much do hillside steps cost?

Costs vary. Wood steps may start around $2,500–$4,000. Stone steps typically range from $5,000 to $15,000+ depending on slope, access, and materials. We provide free quotes.

Ready to Upgrade Your Hillside Access?

If you’re ready to stop slipping down your slope and start enjoying your outdoor space, TLC Lawns & Landscaping is here to help. We design and install custom hillside steps throughout Waupaca and surrounding areas, using the right materials for your property and goals.

Call us at (715) 258-0300 or email tom.leonard@email.com to request a free hillside consultation.

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