How To Build Stairs for a Deck

There is nothing more comforting to a home than a deck. One can sit there in the morning with a cup of coffee and see a beautiful view, enjoy getting a tan on a sunny day, have a bar-b-cue or many other things. That is why so many people want to learn how to build stairs for a deck.

When people are going to and from the deck, safely, is very important. Since all ages will, no doubt, at one time or another’ be going on and off the deck stairs having someone trip or fall could be disastrous. For that reason it is very important that the steps be strong and able to hold a large variety of weights.

Some people prefer wooden stairs to match the deck. Others prefer concrete blocks or other solid materials for this purpose. Whichever type of stairs one decides on, there are many different books and sets of instructions for those who wish to build the stairs themselves.

With the many different types of wood it is always a good idea to get the same kind as the deck. Whether redwood, cedar, pine or some other kind, they always look very well when given the same finish. It is always important to stain the wood to match, if necessary, and put on a sealer coat to protect from the weather.

Wooden stairs are not easy to build even if one has the proper tools and directions. The measurements must be precise and careful plans must be made. The stairs basics are called stringers, treads and risers.

The stringers are notched 2 x 12′s that hold the steps. It will depend on the width of the steps as to how many are needed. Most people prefer rather wide steps as they are considered much safer than narrow ones.

The treads are the boards on which one steps when going up stairs and risers, while not required, are the boards that are at the back of the treads. The risers keep the under construction from being damaged from the weather. When not used the weather can cause the stringers to split and crack.

When contemplating adding steps to one’s deck, a check should be made with the local city building department to see if a permit must be obtained. When going to the office one must have a drawn plan of exactly what type and size of steps are to be installed as well as the type of material. Some cities have very strict rules and inspections regarding this type of construction.