It is common for the hidden portions of each level of the stereobate to be of a lower grade of material than the exposed elements of the steps and the stylobate; each higher level of the crepidoma typically covers the clamps used to hold the stones of the lower level together.
In architectural contexts, it is typical for the hidden sections of each level of a stereobate to be made from inferior materials compared to the visible components of the steps and the stylobate. Typically, each higher level of the crepidoma encases the fasteners used to secure the stones of the lower level.