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 .
How deep should decking steps be?
Composite decking steps should be carefully planned to ensure the rise and tread remain consistent along the run: the rise of the step should not exceed 190mm; the tread of the step must be between 250-450mm deep .
What is the standard width of porch steps?
The stair treads should be at least 36 inches wide. Despite these minimum requirements, we recommend that stairs should be at least 48 inches wide so they don’t feel cramped. The maximum allowable stair rise is 7 3 / 4 inches, and the minimum stair rise is 4 inches.
How wide should outside steps be?
The minimum width for porch steps is 36 inches, but 48 to 60 inches provides more comfortable access. Porch steps 48 inches wide accommodate one person easily and safely; wider porch steps allow two or more people to comfortably navigate the staircase.
What is code for steps on decks?
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. Stair treads must sustain a weight of at least 300 pounds in an area no more than four inches square.
What is the standard size of a step?
The general rule (in the US) is 7-11 (a 7 inch rise and 11 inch run) (17.78cm-27.94cm). More exactly, no more than 7 3/4 inches (19.7cm) for the riser (vertical) and a minimum of 10 inches (25.4cm) for the tread (horizontal or step).
How wide do you make steps?
The generally acceptable width of a stairway is 36 inches , including handrails. This is called the “clear width.” The clear width allows the user to have a wide enough area to walk, and additionally allows people to pass each other on the steps safely.
How deep should a front door step be?
Document M of the Building Regs recommends an ideal of 150mm to 170mm .
What is a comfortable step height?
Rule one says that rise plus run (r+R) should equal 18 inches . Why? That’s what most people find to be a comfortable stride on most stairs. You can cheat a bit up or down, but below 17” and more than 19” will result in steps that require strides either too big or too small for most people.
Do I need a handrail 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.
Does my deck steps need a railing?
If your deck is over 30 inches from the ground, then by law you need railings for the deck stairs . Low rise (aka floating) decks are less than 30 inches from grade and are exempt. ... Guardrails must be installed on a high deck or a balcony. Stair rails are a type of guardrail.
How many steps are in a 4 foot deck?
A four-foot high deck can have a range between 6 and 8 steps .
How do you lay decking on uneven ground?
Method 1: Cemented support posts decking base
To build a decking base on sloped uneven ground: Clear the area of all grass, weeds and debris using a good quality spade. Dig 1ft deep post holes. Set the posts using post mix so that the top is at or slightly above the desired height.
What is a standard step width?
Local codes typically specify stair step width limits. Usually the minimum for residences is from two feet eight inches to three feet six inches . There are no maximum widths, but stairs wider than 44 inches may require hand rails.
