A well-designed deck creates a welcoming space for outdoor activities, events, and gatherings. To make it easy for people to access your deck from the ground, adding stairs is essential. This article discusses three methods of constructing deck stairs: traditional cut stringers, closed riser stairs, and metal stringers.

1. Traditional Cut Stringers

Traditional cut stringers are the most common way of building deck stairs. To start the process, first take precise measurements of your deck’s height and decide on the comfortable rise and run for each step. The rise is the vertical distance from one step to another, while the run is the horizontal distance between two steps.

Once you have established the riser height and tread depth, sketch out a pattern on a 2×12 piece of lumber (pressure treated wood is a popular choice). The pattern should consist of the rise and run dimensions drawn in a stair-step fashion. Cut out this layout with a circular saw or reciprocating saw and smooth any rough edges using a jigsaw.

The next step is to install the cut stringers on your deck by attaching it to your decking frame using screws or brackets. Finally, secure your treads using screws or nails at both ends of each stringer.

2. Closed Riser Stairs

Closed riser stairs provide additional stability due to their enclosed construction. Instead of having an open space beneath each tread like in traditional stringers, closed riser stairs have an extra board called a “riser” placed vertically at the back of each step.

To build closed riser stairs, first construct the stringers in the same manner as traditional cut stringers mentioned above. Next, install riser boards vertically against each step along with kick plates at the base that attach to both riser boards and treads for added stability.

Lastly, install your treads in place by screwing them down to the stringers and riser boards. Closed riser stairs may require extra support, so adding brackets to the stringers or beneath each tread can improve their structural integrity.

3. Metal Stringers

Metal stringers are a great option for a sleek, modern look that adds durability to your deck stairs. These steel structures have pre-cut notches or brackets to hold the treads, simplifying the installation process.

Begin by measuring the deck height, establishing riser height and tread depth. Purchase metal stringers accordingly and ensure they come with appropriate brackets or notches. Install the stringers by attaching them to your deck frame using bolts or specialized hardware suitable for metal-to-wood connections.

Finally, place your treads into the brackets or notched spaces provided in the metal stringers and secure them using screws or bolts as advised by the manufacturer. Metal stringers can support a range of materials for treads, including wood, composite, and even glass.

In conclusion, these three methods of building deck stairs cater to different aesthetics and functional requirements. Ensure you choose a method that suits your budget, design preferences, and construction skills. Regardless of which way you go, installing deck stairs will vastly improve access to your beautiful outdoor space.