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Do deck stairs need footings?
SAFE, SUPPORTED STAIRS: Deck-stair construction varies, but the general requirements are consistent: proper footing support, and an adequate landing. Regardless of the stair run and number of treads, the stairway needs a footing at the bottom to support the stringers—they can’t just rest on the ground.
What is the code for exterior stairs?
Exterior Stair Construction The rise of the stairs should be between 125 mm (5”) and 200 mm (8”). This is measured from top of a tread nosing to the top of the next tread nosing or landing. The run should be between 210 mm (8 ¼”) and 355mm (14”). Unit run is measured from face of nosing to face of nosing.
What is code for deck stairs?
Requirements for Deck Stairs Stair rails on decks should be between 34 inches and 38 inches high, measured vertically from the nose of the tread to the top of the rail. Treads must be at least 10 inches deep, measuring from front to back.
How many stringers do I need for deck stairs?
Deck Stair Basics Deck stairs are typically made from 2 x 12 stringers spaced about 12 to 16 inches apart. They rest on a solid foundation and are attached to the deck with hangers. They have risers (also called toe kicks), treads and railings. The stairs should be at least 36 inches wide.
Do you install risers or treads first?
When installing stairs, install the riser first, and then the tread. Start at the bottom of the stairs and work your way up, alternating risers and treads. The back of each tread will sit flush against the riser.
How do you attach stair stringers to landing?
Attach the stringers to the deck using angle brackets and 3” galvanized deck screws. Cut a 2×6 board to fit snugly between the two stringers at their base. This will be used to fasten the stairs to the concrete pad. Place the board between the stringers and attach to stringers with 3” galvanized deck screws.
Do deck stair stringers need support?
To help resist both vertical and lateral loads, stringers require proper support and attachment at these bearing points. Without proper support, vertical loads (gravity) can pull the stringers down from their bearing points, while lateral (horizontal) loads can pull the stringers away from their bearing points.
Do I need a concrete pad for deck stairs?
Building codes generally require that exterior stairways have a concrete footing or foundation. Without the foundation the steps will sink, heave or tilt to one side. This article shows how to build a 4-in. thick slab that will serve as a foundation for a set of deck steps.
Do deck stairs have to land on concrete?
Stair landings must be at least as wide as the stair and at least 3 feet deep. On the other hand, solid, flat, and stable materials, such as concrete, flagstone, pavers, or brick, can be installed with a measurable slope and will not usually shift under the weight of an off-balance person completing a stairway descent.
Can deck stairs land on grass?
Yes, it is a good idea to have a landing at the bottom of steps.
What should I put on the bottom of my deck steps?
Like any solid structure, your steps need a stable foundation. There are many options when it comes to footings for your deck steps, from concrete and gravel to patio stones and even grass.Footings with Different Deck Stair Landing Options Concrete landing pad. A wood box-type landing pad. Crushed stone. Patio Blocks.
Can I use deck pier blocks instead of footings?
Pier blocks can be used instead of footings for a ground-level deck not requiring permits. Piers blocks can also be used if the frost level depth is less then the height of the pier block.
How deep should a footing be for stairs?
Dig a trench about 125mm deep for the footing for the first riser.
Do I need a railing on my outdoor stairs?
The open side can be along the length or width of the stairway. This means that exterior stairs will require a guardrail and / or handrail along the open side.
Is a landing required for exterior stairs?
Stairways must have a landing, top and bottom, equal to the width of stairs. The minimum dimension measured in the direction of travel shall equal to the width of the stairway, but need not exceed 48” where the stairway has a straight run.
Do outdoor stairs need a landing?
All exterior staircases are required by code to have landings at the bottom and top to make sure it is safe and there is plenty of room for doors to swing, and for people to use. There are several pieces of building code to consider when building your deck stair landing.
What is the standard step height for stairs?
Riser Heights In the United States, the step height standard should be between 7 or 7 ¾ inches at the most, and no less than 4 inches. You should follow other measurements if given by local building codes. In Canada, the maximum step riser height is 8 ¼ inches.
How much should deck stairs overhang?
Stairs must have an overhang between 3/4″ to 1-1/4” to increase the depth of the step, making it better for descent while maintaining a clear 10-inch going for the ascent. Treads that are 11-inches deep or greater do not require an overhang.
Do you need a railing for 3 steps?
A: Editorial Adviser Mike Guertin replies: Since your stairs will have only three risers, you don’t need to install a handrail. That said, it’s important to count the number of risers accurately.
Are stair stringers 2×10 or 2×12?
It is acceptable and within building code guidelines to use either 2×10 or 2×12 dimensional lumber to create a set of stairs; however, a stair stringer should not be less than 3.5 inches wide at its narrowest point to provide adequate strength for the load the stairs will be supporting.
Can you use joist hangers for stair stringers?
Use joist hangers to fasten the blocking. Pros: Allows for the use of all types of stair stringer hangers. The top of the stair stringer acts as the first tread instead of being flush with the deck’s surface.
What size wood is used for stair stringers?
The stair stringers are essentially the backbone of your staircase. Always use straight, high-quality, pressure-treated 2x12s for stair stringers. If you are planning on resting the stringer on the ground, make sure the wood has .
