Final Grading and Finishing
From Landscape Steps · Step 8 of 8 · Video by Adventures in Lake Living
Showing 0:14–0:24 of the source video.
What happens in this clip
Once all the timbers are installed and the treads are formed and compacted, perform the final grading around the new steps. This involves smoothing out the surrounding soil to integrate the steps seamlessly into the landscape and ensure proper drainage away from the structure. The final visual of the video shows the completed steps nestled into the terrain. You can also add decorative elements like landscape fabric, mulch, or plants alongside the steps for an aesthetically pleasing and finished look.
Goal: Integrate the steps into the landscape and ensure proper drainage
What's used
Tools
- Rake
Materials
- Landscape Fabric (Optional)
- Mulch or Decorative Gravel (Optional)
- River rock
About the full video
This project guides you through building durable outdoor steps on a sloped terrain using heavy wooden timbers, commonly railroad ties. The process involves precise cutting of timbers, extensive digging and leveling to create stable foundations, installing the timbers as risers, and backfilling with soil to form the step treads, culminating in a functional and integrated landscape feature.
Step 8 of 8: Final Grading and Drainage
Once all steps are constructed, check the grading around the entire structure. Ensure the ground slopes away from the steps to prevent water from pooling. Make any necessary adjustments to the soil or gravel surrounding the steps for a clean finish and good drainage.
Other videos for this step
Landscape Steps
This project involves constructing timber and gravel steps on a slope to improve accessibility and aesthetics. The process includes planning the layout, excavating the area, building retaining walls for each step using timber, and filling the steps with compacted gravel for a durable and functional surface.
Read the full guide Browse all guides
Planning this project? Shop Oak Valley Designs.