Composite Decking Stairs – Is This the Right Solution for You?

Outdoor stairs are not only a functional element of the house but also a key feature that influences the overall aesthetics of the property. They require a material that combines durability, safety, and attractive appearance. More and more often, the choice falls on composite decking boards – widely known for use on terraces, balconies, or façades, and now increasingly used for finishing stairs.

Why? Because composite combines the natural charm of wood with the durability of modern materials. This way, stairs can look elegant for many years without the need for costly and time-consuming maintenance. In this article, we’ll explore all the advantages and practical aspects of using composite decking on stairs to help you decide whether this solution is right for you.

Composite Stairs – What You Should Know First

Stairs made of composite decking boards are built with treads and risers finished using panels made from a blend of wood flour and high-quality polymers. This mixture gives the material the appearance of natural wood while providing outstanding resistance to moisture, temperature changes, UV radiation, and mechanical damage.

Unlike wood, composite requires no impregnation or varnishing, and maintenance is limited to regular cleaning.

Liderwood offers boards in two main surface finishes:

  • Grooved – with wide or narrow grooves that enhance grip and user safety,

  • Wood texture – with an elegant, natural look, ideal for projects where aesthetics and consistency with the terrace are key.

A wide range of colours – from classic wood tones to modern greys and anthracites – allows you to design stairs that perfectly match your terrace, fencing, or house façade.

Advantages of Composite Decking Stairs

1. Weather Resistance
Composite decking boards retain their appearance and properties for years, regardless of the weather. They don’t absorb water, so they won’t crack in frost, and thanks to UV resistance, they don’t lose their colour even in full sunlight. They are also not at risk of rotting or mould growth. This means no need for costly repairs or stair replacements every few seasons – it’s a one-time investment that lasts for many years.

2. Anti-Slip Surface
Safety is especially important for outdoor stairs. The grooved surface of composite boards ensures better grip, significantly reducing the risk of slipping – even in rain, snow, or icy conditions. That’s added comfort and peace of mind for your family and guests.

3. Consistency with Outdoor Design
Thanks to a wide range of colours and two surface finishes – grooved (with narrow or wide grooves) and wood-textured – you can perfectly match the stairs with your terrace, façade, fencing, or garden features. This creates a cohesive and modern outdoor space that impresses with its aesthetics.

4. No Maintenance Required
Forget about oiling, varnishing, or impregnating. With composite decking, all you need to do is occasionally wash the surface with water and mild detergent. That’s a huge time and cost saver compared to wooden stairs, which require regular maintenance to preserve their durability and appearance.

How to Build Stairs Using Composite Decking Boards?

One of the greatest advantages of composite decking boards is their simple and intuitive installation. Thanks to this, they can be used not only on terraces but also for finishing outdoor stairs – delivering a durable and elegant result.

  1. Preparing the Base

The first step is to properly prepare the stair structure. The surface should be stable, level, and free from debris. It’s recommended to include a slight slope (approx. 1–2%) to ensure effective water drainage and prevent pooling on the steps.

  1. Installing the Joists

Joists are the foundation of the entire structure – they should be installed at appropriate intervals, both from each other and from the wall, according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This ensures the stability of the boards and long-term durability of the structure.
➡ Check out our joists and installation accessories

  1. Laying the Decking Boards

Remember to leave expansion gaps – small spaces between the boards that allow for the natural expansion and contraction of the material due to temperature changes.

  1. Finishing the Edges

You can finish the stairs with finishing trims, which give them an elegant look and protect the edges from damage. At Liderwood, we offer trims in various shapes and colours, making it easy to match them with your chosen decking boards.

DIY or Hire a Specialist?

Stairs made from composite decking boards can be installed by yourself – especially if you have basic technical skills and the right tools. Our offer includes a detailed installation guide for composite decking, describing each step of the process: laying boards, positioning joists, and finishing the edges.

However, it’s important to note that stairs are a structural element that requires precision and proper execution. Any installation mistakes may affect the durability, safety, and appearance of the finished structure.
That’s why, if you don’t have experience with such projects, it’s better to entrust the job to a proven contractor.

This approach guarantees that your stairs will serve you for many years, maintaining their appearance and functionality without the need for corrections or repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions – Composite Decking Stairs

. Are composite decking boards suitable for outdoor stairs?
Yes. Composite decking boards are resistant to moisture, frost, sun, and temperature fluctuations. Unlike wood, they don’t crack, rot, or require regular sealing. Thanks to their anti-slip surface, they are ideal for use on steps, ensuring safe use in all weather conditions.

2. Are composite stairs slippery in the rain or winter?
Modern composite decking boards, especially the grooved versions, feature a surface designed for better grip. This means that even in rain or snow, the risk of slipping is lower than with, for example, ceramic tiles.

3. How long do composite stairs last?
With proper installation and regular cleaning, composite stairs can last 25–30 years while maintaining their appearance and usability.

4. Can composite boards be cut to size?
Yes. Composite decking boards can be easily cut with a mitre saw or table saw – preferably using a diamond blade or fine-tooth metal blade. This allows precise fitting to the stair width. Be sure to finish the edges cleanly for a polished look.

Summary – Are composite decking stairs right for you?

If you’re looking for a material that delivers durable, safe, and stylish outdoor stairs, composite decking boards are the perfect choice. They combine the natural look of wood with resistance to weather, frost, and UV rays. With a wide range of colours and textures, they adapt to any architectural style.

Additionally, they are virtually maintenance-free – no oiling, painting, or sealing required.

Weather resistance
Safety with anti-slip surface
Perfect colour and texture matching
No costly maintenance

🔎 Want your stairs to look great for years? Check out our composite decking board range.

📞 Questions? Contact our team – we’re happy to help with selection and installation!