How to Build Deck Steps

On how to build deck steps, one does not have to necessarily rely on contractors, carpenters, or other professionals to build a trusty set of deck steps. By just comprehending and following the proper steps and rules, one will learn on how to build deck steps successfully. Find out how to build deck steps either before or after the deck boards are in place.

The first thing to do on how to build deck steps is to calculate the number of steps, then measure the height of deck. Divide the height of the deck by six or seven inches, which are the normal riser height on how to build deck steps. This tells the number of steps one needs from the ground to the top of deck. Then calculate the tread, which is the width of the step from front to back. Twice the riser height plus the tread width should be between twenty-four inches and twenty-six inches. So, for a riser that is six inches tall, the tread should be measure between twelve inches and fourteen inches.

On how to build deck steps  let us start by pouring the foundation and add a kicker plate, which is a board attached to the foundation with bolts or concrete nails; the bottom of the stairs can be attached to it, one can add a kicker plate only if wanted on how to build deck steps.

Then transfer step measurements, as determined by calculations in Section 1, onto a 2 by 12 treated board that will be the first stringer, which is a stringer is a board that has the pattern cut into it - it helps one form the stair-size calculations. First is to mark the height dimension of a step onto the short arm of a framing square; place the framing square to the board with this mark at the outer side edge of the board. Then grip the square in place and slide it up and down until the width dimension on long arm of square is on the edge of board.

Then trace throughout the edge of framing square. On how to build deck steps, the tracings should look like a V. On how to build deck steps try to keep on marking the treads. Now the board will look like VVV.

Then subtract the tread's thickness from the bottom of the stringer and notch out the bottom to fit around the kicker plate.

The next thing to do on how to build deck steps is to cut the trace lines with a circular saw or handsaw. Check the alignment with the deck, then trace and cut a second stringer using the first as the pattern. Next is to attach the stops of the stringers to exposed joists with bolts or to end or rim joists with joist anchors or angle brackets. Then attach the bottom of the stringers to the base or kicker plate with angle irons with lag screws. Cut risers and treads to the wanted width of the stairway, leaving a 3 / 4 inch overhang on each other sides.

Screw or nail the risers in place, then add a little more treads. Then connect bottom edges of risers to backs of treads.

By following the correct procedures on how to build deck steps, one can have a durable, substantial, dependable and trusty deck steps in no time.