How To Build And Attach Deck Stairs

Moments in this video

1. 6:12–7:01 Marking the Stringers From How to Lay Out and Cut Deck Stair Stringers, Step 3: Mark the First Stringer Layout

   With the framing square's gauges set to the desired rise (7 1/16 inches) and run (10 inches), begin marking the stringer. Place the framing square on the edge of the 2x12 board and trace the outside for each step. For the first step, instead of using the full rise, mark 5 13/16 inches for the bottom surface. This is because 1 1/4 inches will be added on top for the tread, resulting in the desired total height. The top line marked will be the back surface of the stringer. Continue to mark the outline of all subsequent steps along the board.

2. 7:50–8:42 Test Fit and Confirm Measurements of First Stringer From Deck Stairs, Step 2: Mark Stringer Placement

   After cutting the first stringer, take it to the deck and roughly set it in place on the landing pad. Use a measuring tape to double-check the rise of each step and the overall height against your initial calculations. It's helpful to have a piece of tread material (like a 2x6 deck board) to visually confirm the fit and ensure all dimensions align with the desired rise and run, especially the top surface and bottom surface. If the dimensions are correct, this first cut stringer can then serve as a template for cutting the remaining stringers, ensuring consistency across all stair components.

3. 8:43–8:58 Cutting Remaining Stringers using Template From How to Lay Out and Cut Deck Stair Stringers, Step 5: Transfer Layout and Cut Additional Stringers

   Once the first stringer is cut and confirmed accurate, use it as a template to mark and cut the remaining stringers. Place the completed stringer on top of a new 2x12 board and trace its pattern. Then, use the circular saw for the straight cuts and the jigsaw for the internal corner cuts, just as with the first stringer. Repeat this process until all necessary stringers are cut.

4. 10:09–11:12 Securing Stringers to Landing Pad with Base Plate From Deck Stairs, Step 4: Secure Stringers to Ground

   Place a 2x4 pressure-treated board on the concrete landing pad to serve as a base plate for the stringers. This base plate should be positioned to align with the stringers. Using a hammer drill and a 1/2-inch bit (or the exact bit specified in the product description), drill two holes through the 2x4 base plate and into the concrete landing pad. Insert concrete anchors into these holes, and then secure them by hammering them in. Finally, tighten the anchors with a wrench, ensuring the stringers will be firmly attached to the ground.

5. 11:12–11:54 Attaching Tread Boards From Deck Stairs, Step 6: Install Treads

   With the stringers securely in place, it's time to attach the tread boards. Position the first tread board onto the top step of the stringers, ensuring a 1-inch overhang as planned. Use a cordless drill and appropriate deck screws to fasten the tread board securely to the stringers. Repeat this process for each step, ensuring each tread is evenly spaced and aligned. Once all tread boards are installed, the stairs are complete and ready for use.

Guides that use this video

• How to Lay Out and Cut Deck Stair Stringers
• Deck Stairs