Layout. To determine the best riser-tread
relationship, you need to find the total
vertical rise and total horizontal run. Use a
long 2x4 to find these dimensions, leveling
it for accurate measurement. If the distance
is too great for a single board, take a series
of measurements between intermediate
points along the slope. Draw these
measurements carefully on graph paper to
give you a cross section of the slope to
scale. After you have plotted the total rise
and run on graph paper, experiment on paper
with different riser heights and tread
widths until you find a ratio that conforms to
the slope without being too steep or too flat.
The risers should divide the slope into equal
segments so all the steps are exactly the
same height and width. Arriving at a
standard is usually easier with outdoor steps
than with indoor stairways because you can
adjust the grade level at the bottom or top
of the slope to create a full step if necessary. Plan a slope of 1/4 inch per foot for each tread to provide drainage.
Notched stringers. If a wood stairway has more than two treads, construct it with stringers. Most stringers are made from 2x12s. Leave the riser spaces open to provide better drainage and air circulation, or close them to conceal an undesirable view. The tops of the stringers attach to a house wall, deck joist, or small platform. The base should rest on a concrete pad. If the stringers are not of a durable species or of pressure treated lumber,don't set them directly on concrete. Place them on wood blocks so the bases won't decay.
To build stringers, calculate the exact riser dimension that will produce an even number of steps. Determine the best tread width to go with the riser size. For outdoor steps, the total of the riser height and tread width should be 20 to 21 inches. Use a framing square to layout each step on the 2 by 12. Position the square so that the mark showing riser height and tread width end at the edge of the stringer. Cut out the stringer. Check that it fits; when it does, use it as a pattern.
Install all the stringers and make sure they are level. For protection against decay and splitting, coat all the stringer edges with sealer or primer. Then attach all the stringers with outdoor construction adhesive or 16d HDG box nails. If you use risers, the tread nosings should overhang them by 1 1/2 inches.
Solid stringers. The treads, which should not be wider than 3 feet, are suspended between two solid stringers by wood or metal cleats. The stringers can be 2 by 8s, but should be at least 2x10s for spans longer than 10 feet. Rough lumber will provide more strength. Mark risers and treads on the stringers as if you were going to cut them. Use the marks as a guide for attaching cleats. Fasten cleats with lag screws or carriage bolts, or use long nails that are able to clinch after they penetrate the stringer. Each tread should overhand the one below it by 1 1/2 inches.
relationship, you need to find the total
vertical rise and total horizontal run. Use a
long 2x4 to find these dimensions, leveling
it for accurate measurement. If the distance
is too great for a single board, take a series
of measurements between intermediate
points along the slope. Draw these
measurements carefully on graph paper to
give you a cross section of the slope to
scale. After you have plotted the total rise
and run on graph paper, experiment on paper
with different riser heights and tread
widths until you find a ratio that conforms to
the slope without being too steep or too flat.
The risers should divide the slope into equal
segments so all the steps are exactly the
same height and width. Arriving at a
standard is usually easier with outdoor steps
than with indoor stairways because you can
adjust the grade level at the bottom or top
of the slope to create a full step if necessary. Plan a slope of 1/4 inch per foot for each tread to provide drainage.
Notched stringers. If a wood stairway has more than two treads, construct it with stringers. Most stringers are made from 2x12s. Leave the riser spaces open to provide better drainage and air circulation, or close them to conceal an undesirable view. The tops of the stringers attach to a house wall, deck joist, or small platform. The base should rest on a concrete pad. If the stringers are not of a durable species or of pressure treated lumber,don't set them directly on concrete. Place them on wood blocks so the bases won't decay.
To build stringers, calculate the exact riser dimension that will produce an even number of steps. Determine the best tread width to go with the riser size. For outdoor steps, the total of the riser height and tread width should be 20 to 21 inches. Use a framing square to layout each step on the 2 by 12. Position the square so that the mark showing riser height and tread width end at the edge of the stringer. Cut out the stringer. Check that it fits; when it does, use it as a pattern.
Install all the stringers and make sure they are level. For protection against decay and splitting, coat all the stringer edges with sealer or primer. Then attach all the stringers with outdoor construction adhesive or 16d HDG box nails. If you use risers, the tread nosings should overhang them by 1 1/2 inches.
Solid stringers. The treads, which should not be wider than 3 feet, are suspended between two solid stringers by wood or metal cleats. The stringers can be 2 by 8s, but should be at least 2x10s for spans longer than 10 feet. Rough lumber will provide more strength. Mark risers and treads on the stringers as if you were going to cut them. Use the marks as a guide for attaching cleats. Fasten cleats with lag screws or carriage bolts, or use long nails that are able to clinch after they penetrate the stringer. Each tread should overhand the one below it by 1 1/2 inches.
Building Wood Steps For A Deck
In A Hour.com
When planning to build your deck stairs, the main thing to remember is locating them in the safest, most accessible space of your deck design. I would also add step lighting to the stair area for safety when entertaining on the deck during night time events.
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