Savannah Yellow granite outdoor staircase in Nancy

The project

At a 1960s house in Nancy, the concrete entrance staircase was crumbling. The owners wanted to renovate it without demolishing it, using a warm-looking stone that would not be slippery in winter.

The choices

They opted for Savannah Yellow granite cladding (treads and risers) and matching paving for the landing, in golden beige shades.

An outdoor stone staircase can be built with solid block steps or by cladding an existing concrete staircase (treads and risers). A textured finish on the treads and a well-shaped nosing improve safety. Special lengths and cuts can be made to measure in our workshop.

Savannah Yellow granite is a dense, low-porosity stone: it withstands frost, de-icing salt and stains, which makes it a safe choice for outdoor areas exposed to harsh winters. Textured finishes such as flamed keep the surface slip-resistant, even when wet.

Installation

A local mason repaired the existing concrete, then laid the eight steps and the landing in about a week.

Cladding treads are laid on a sound concrete base with a slight forward fall to shed water, using an outdoor-grade adhesive or mortar. Solid block steps are set directly on a stable foundation.

The result

Eight steps and a landing of about 4 m²: a renovated entrance, brighter and safer in wet weather.

Granite needs little maintenance: regular cleaning with water, plus a suitable cleaner when needed, is enough in most cases. A water-repellent treatment can reduce soiling.