Portland Stone Steps
Portland Stone is a Jurassic period limestone quarried on the Isle of Portland in Dorset. It is a highly characteristic stone, white-grey in colour with varying levels of fossil content depending on the bed from which it has been quarried.
The range of stone colours commonly available, shown when wet and when dry.
Portland Stone has been used as a masonry material for buildings for many years. Examples in London include the Cenotaph in Whitehall, The British Museum and Westminster Abbey.
Suitability For Steps
Natural features within the stone should be expected as a matter of course. They include the fossilised remains of sea creatures and calcified water lines, both of which add structural integrity and character to the stone. It is possible to select relatively featureless stones, but this is regarded as a premium service and must be requested.
A finished flight of Portland Stone steps in London. Portland steps were often produced as wedges, as above, rather than separate tread and riser units. A rounded bullnose can be added to the wedges of stone, or the edges can be left square as in the photograph.
