Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 7/8/2009

Question
I'm moving to a new home with a front yard that slopes downward.  I would like to have some steps installed to make the trip to the front porch safer - especially for my mother.  What are the relative merits of wood vs. concrete in terms of price, durability, etc.?  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Marcia, concrete is probably a little more expensive but it sounds like you may need to build some stepped areas and sidewalk to make your sloping lot more accessible.  If that is the case then concrete will be your bet.  It will be more durable and you can build the steps into the sloping ground and/or use the steps to shape your yard into gradual terraces which in the long run will make the yard more usable.  I hope this information helps, feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com