Natural Stones

• Natural stone steps lend a rustic ambiance to your outdoor space. You can make steps from large stones and boulders that you find on your property, or you can purchase stones and natural stone slabs from your local landscape supply store. Achieving a flat, level surface for your steps is the greatest challenge you face in working with natural stone, but the end results are worth the effort.
  
  

Concrete Pavers

• Build your backyard steps with concrete pavers for an inexpensive alternative to natural stone. You can select from the sleek look of stamped concrete pavers to the charming old-world style of cobblestone pavers for your backyard steps. As with natural stone steps, you should plan to seal your step pavers at least once annually to protect from staining and moisture retention. Stained concrete pavers also might need touch-up or re-staining if the color fades.
  
  

Brick

• Bricks are another beautiful choice for your backyard steps. There are many styles and colors of brick to choose from, but you should try to match any brick work that's already on your house for design continuity. Bricks are relatively maintenance-free; you can clean them as needed, but regular sealing is not required.
  
  

Slate Tile Steps

• Slate tiles have a naturally uneven surface with beautiful color variations that will increase the appeal of your backyard steps. You can cover your existing concrete or wooden steps with slate tile for a dramatic change in appearance. Know that slate varies in quality; lesser quality stone might flake off, and your steps will gradually disappear. You should also seal your slate tile steps three to four times a year to protect them from staining and from retaining moisture.
  
  

Wood

• You can easily build steps for your backyard with pre-made risers and treated wood planks. Both materials are available from your local home improvement store. Make sure that you select treated wood or woods such as teak, cedar or redwood that are naturally resistant to mildew and insects. You'll still need to seal any of these woods to protect against moisture. With regular maintenance, your wood steps will be an attractive part of your backyard for years.