Attaching stair stringers to concrete porch. Simpson Strong-Tie products .
Attaching stair stringers to concrete porch. There is To attach stair stringers to a deck, you must use a metal stair stringer hanger. )SUBSCRIBE to T Oct 15, 2006 · Laying out deck stair stringers properly is important to the integrity of your deck stairs. It also makes keeping the staircase square and more of a complete package so much easier. The standard way to build steps is to cut stringers out of 2″ x 10″ or 2″ x 12″ lumber, and to secure those to the deck or porch. How To Attach Wooden Stair Steps To A Concrete Foundation #diy #howto Clear Creek Cabin Mini Farm 4. Feb 13, 2012 · After the concrete cures, they move the stairs into place with the top of the stairs resting on the deck support beam. Nov 14, 2004 · Decks, Patios, Porches, Walkways, Driveways, Stairs, Steps and Docks - Attaching stairs to brick - Hi, First time posting I'm replacing some rotten, leaning deck-type stairs. When the lower floor is made of concrete, you will need a special fastener to attach the wood to it unless one has already been embedded for this purpose. Ensure safety and functionality while enhancing your outdoor space. One way to keep them in place is to use 4×4 posts or concrete piers bearing on concrete footings to support the stringers. 5 days ago · Unlock the secrets to safely attaching stairs to a concrete slab with our comprehensive guide! From choosing the right materials to understanding critical tools like masonry anchors and concrete drills, this article covers it all. I need to anchor a 4 x 4 wood post to the bottom step and wondering what is the best way to do that to get good stability? Note that the steps are composite decking. Using a stair stringer connector helps ensure that the stringers are securely attached, providing stability and safety to your staircase. Dec 21, 2007 · Some deck builders install a concrete landing below deck stairs at grade. Secure connections ensure stability, prevent wobbling, and meet building code requirements. In this article, we’ll look at how to cut and install the stringers, including how to attach stringers between full-height walls and how to anchor freestanding stairs. You need to limit that contact to keep from rot. A good option for support at the base of a stairs is to install a grade beam, which is essentially a short foundation wall that supports both newel posts and the weight of the stairs. Mar 7, 2014 · Newel posts are dynamically linked to stair systems, both aesthetically and structurally, which is why stringer and post installation must be planned carefully and concurrently. Understand rise, run, stringers and code standards. Expert tips and tools from Cardinal Home Center. Learn what you should consider and how to build deck steps with Decks. Sep 24, 2022 · I’m replacing my front porch and can’t figure out how to attach my stair stringers/risers. Attach the 4x4 posts to the ends of each outside stringer using two 2-1/2-inch galvanized deck screws (screwed from the inside of the stringers) to hold them in place. To anchor stairs you must secure the stair stringers in two locations: to the joist or stud wall of the floor or deck above and at the bottom of the stairs. Oct 15, 2006 · Attaching stair stringers the right way is important for building strong deck stairs. A hammer drill will allow you to connect stair stringers with ease. One is to lag the butt ends of the stringer directly to the deck rim. In this post, the last in a series of six, we will discuss how to build code-compliant stairs for your deck. Learn how to attach stairs to a deck with this comprehensive step-by-step guide. A second method is to add a supplemental ledger below the Stair building articles on mycarpentry. Shown here are three popular ways to secure stair stringers. Measure and cut any notches, or other adjustments required. Concrete Slab or Patio Landings If the stairs are resting on a concrete slab or a patio then the slab or patio should also be built with a similar foundation to resist frost movement. 16 votes, 22 comments. In this video an inspector points out the correct way to protect the bottom of your stair stringers from moisture. Dec 15, 2024 · Replacing porch stairs is an essential task that enhances both safety and curb appeal. Aug 21, 2023 · The final part of the deck build is the stairs, but that takes some math and know-how. Find out which method is best for the style of your deck. The hangers are fitted to the back edge of the stringer and then bent to contour to the bottom edge. Our How-to Team will take you step-by-step through what you need to know, from determining your rise and run to critical installation details. You will want to rest your stair stringer on 12" of the concrete landing. The International Residential Code prohibits end-nailing, toe-nailing, and screwing of stringers to headers. If you’d like to gain or change access to your deck with a permanent staircase, now you can build and install one in half a day with Fast-Stairs ® modular adjustable steel stair stringers. *In the photo, the riser on the second stair down is notched for a step light and wiring. When constructing a deck, ensuring that stair stringers and treads are properly connected is crucial for safety and compliance with building codes. 5' high I think 48"w with 5 stringers. I also do this at the top to fit a 2x6 or 2x8 to make attaching to the deck or floor joists easier. Another way is to bolt 3/4" plywood to the vetical faces of the stringers and use that to hang the top of the stair. Our training manager Sam Marcoux Building Strong Deck Stairs Learn several fool-proof methods for supporting and connecting stringers and guardrails when building an outdoor staircase. The steps I’m building are probably different than most steps that you’ve seen. Often times we find rot at the bottom of stair stringers that are resting on Aug 14, 2024 · Attaching the Stairs to the Porch Set the stringer assembly against the porch and secure it with several 8-inch structural screws. I am building a low deck that has a long S curved edge. com discuss two ways to attach stairs to a deck or landing - either the flush mount, where the top step on the stringer is attached flush with the level of the deck surface, or the standard mount, where the top step of the stringer is attached a full step height below the deck or landing. Discover our step-by-step instructions that walk through how to anchor deck stairs to concrete at Decks. Nov 29, 2013 · I have always been on the lookout for a better way to make a more secure rail post connection at the bottom of a set of deck stairs. Sep 19, 2022 · How to Make Stair Stringers — Deck stairways require a solid attachment to the deck framing for safety. Usually it is attached to the deck posts, which may not be Deck stairs easily made with prefabricated rust proof steel stair stringers. Next, attach the stringers to the joist using angled brackets or stringer hangers secured with 3” exterior metal screws. Make stringers for the lower stairs using your earlier computations for the rise and run. Typically the brackets take 10d galvanized nails. Jul 12, 2012 · Installation instructions and tips for installing wood and maintenance free riser stairs on your deck. You attach the stringers to the hanger board using stair stringer brackets, which are adjustable galvanized brackets made by Simpson or competitor, specifically designed to attach stringers to a hanger board. This is an excellent way to attach the bottom of larger stair stringers like these, to a concrete foundation. Dec 21, 2019 · I'm adding a composite hand rail to the stairs of our deck. I’m going to use these Simpson stringer connectors for the stairs in this warehouse. Use a hammer drill to create pilot holes through the bottom 2-by-6 and into the concrete walkway. From measuring and cutting to assembly, create safe and stylish stairs for your deck. To determine the length of the galvanized threaded rods, measure the span between Jun 19, 2017 · Most things I've read suggest attaching the stringers to a toe kick bolted onto a concrete slab. How to calculate, lay out, saw, and attach a set of treated pine steps to a concrete porch. Learn how to properly install 2x12 stair stringers for you deck at Decks. One of the easiest ways to attach deck stair footings to concrete is through the base plate. This method extends the deck surface over the stringers. Mike Guertin East Greenwich, R. Low and high deck stringer stair installation tips. This would entail attaching the 48" x 46" platform to the rim joist. Measure and mark riser locations to ensure consistent step height. Once the post is in place I'll slide a Apr 3, 2015 · That way the plumb cut on the stringer is resting entirely on the rim joist. To get that measurement on a porch that’s fairly close to the ground, you can hold a long level out over the joists, but on a deck that’s 5 feet or more over your head, it’s easier to May 22, 2024 · If you don’t want to use concrete footings, there are numerous instant footing options available. As mentioned above, the base plate is the horizontal piece of wood, usually a 2×4, that connects the stringers at the base of the stairs. Bend the bracket so the bottom sits on the concrete. I'm guessing it's block/concrete with brick on the outside, the top Nov 14, 2004 · Decks, Patios, Porches, Walkways, Driveways, Stairs, Steps and Docks - Attaching stairs to brick - Hi, First time posting I'm replacing some rotten, leaning deck-type stairs. Learn requirements, construction tips, & helpful images to make your project a success! Learn how to build deck stairs with our comprehensive guide. Step 1: Position and secure stair stringers Confirm that the stair stringers are level and evenly spaced. I screw a pressure treated 2x4 to the concrete at the bottom of the stringers- this helps to hold them in place and makes the install easier. For more details on building stairs, visit the JLC Field Guide. Attach 2x4 cleats to the backside of the rim joist that faces the concrete pad. Are you saying I should pour footings and set posts to connect the top of the stringers onto? Jeff Wilson explains what you need to know about installing stringers. This video is part of Build A Deck show hosted by Jeff Wilson . The span is just 3 steps. I staple sill seal to the bottom of the stringer where Jul 21, 2023 · Many different companies that specialize in the construction industry produce hangers that can be utilized to securely attach stair stringers to concrete. Jun 15, 2023 · If not properly supported, the stairs can shift or sink into the ground, requiring repair or replacement. The minimum size for a stair landing is 36" x 36" in front of the stairs. The stringer must support a design live load of 40 psf for residential decks. Apr 22, 2022 · BONUS QUESTION: Should I attach the stringer closest to the concrete wall just like a ledger (and maybe back it off 1/8th with some galvanized washers?) Or is it better to NOT attach it to the wall and leave it free like the other stringers? Deck Stair Building: Learn how to build deck stairs + What You need to know about building deck stairs to get stronger, longer lasting stairs secured to concrete. Note that the posts can be mounted either inside or outside the stringers. Learn how to build safe, code-compliant deck stairs using stringers, treated lumber, and composite treads. SHOW DESCRIPTION Jun 25, 2012 · Like constructing a house, building stairs isn't rocket science, but it requires attention to detail, measurements and cuts in the stringers. Stair stringers are the diagonal boards that support the steps on a staircase. Jul 9, 2020 · Otherwise, my favorite approach is to pour a concrete strip footing that is at least the width of the bottom cut of the stair stringers (about 10 inches), the same length as the width of the stairway, and the same depth as the other deck footings (below frost level) (see Strip Footing Detail, below). The entire edge has steps; that is, it looks like a short flight of very wide steps; 26 stringers in all. Whether you’re a DIY homeowner, a beginner contractor, or a carpenter working on deck stair framing, this guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions for how to attach stair stringers May 13, 2015 · Do I need an attachment for the stair stringers to a concrete landing pad? One stair case is 5 steps about 2. Follow our step-by-step instructions to avoid common pitfalls, and learn how to tackle challenges like uneven surfaces. What is the best way to attach either wood or steel stringers to concrete foundation for patio steps? Mike Guertin explains the loads and codes applying to deck-stair connections, and provides a simple and stout detail for attaching the stairs to the deck. ) piers on wide footings, to other methods too complicated How to Build Deck Stairs Building deck stairs can often be viewed as a difficult and complex part of the deck-building process, but we’re here to make it easier. If anything I was thinking strongtie angle brackets with hilti nails into the concrete. Steve’s crew checks that the stringers are level and then nails them in place. Install stair stringers with joist hangers and you are off to the races. Most would not pass muster with an engineer or a strict enforcement of the code. us/VYIp51 Deck stairs can be a little intimidating for a normal DIYer but with a little guidance I am confident you will be able to build a safe and secure You should pour a little concrete pad at the bottom. Dec 13, 2022 · Building stairs can be one of the most challenging aspects of building a deck. Here is another: If you attach the bottom end of your stringers directly to the concrete footing pad, that long stretch of open wood grain will absorb water and rot, even with PT lumber—just like the end of a post. By Video Journalist Waldo CabreraAsk John the Builder's John Cox demonstrates how to add custom stairs to your deck. Simpson Strong-Tie products Your stringers will always bear on a surface that will come in contact with moisture. Jul 12, 2012 · Attach each riser, fastening them to the stringers with at least two deck screws, or nails, wherever they riser meets the stringers. If no concrete pier is used, the post should bear on the footing and stringers should bear on 2x4 blocking fastened to 4x4 posts with #8x3-1/2" screws or 16d nails. The treads may not be level, but if you have the right stringers this will not be noticeable. Instead, metal hangers or lag bolts can be used to secure the stringers to a rim joist. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to install stair stringers on a deck, covering important considerations such as measurements, calculations, cutting, and securing the stringers. (See below for a shopping list, tools, and steps. Here's a link that may be helpful: The Simpson Strong-Tie stair stringer is a popular metal connector used to attach stair stringers to support structures like decks, patios, or floors. Here's the situation. I’ve got a concrete footing around the perimeter and 3 rows of cinder blocks (filled with concrete) as the foundation of the deck. In this article, we will delve into every aspect of porch stair replacement, including the steps involved, the materials to consider, and important design elements to keep in mind for a durable and attractive outcome. The What I would like to do is have the steps (48" wide) run parallel to the house, with a landing at the top (48" x 46") that is level with the deck, and enter the main deck between the 4x4 supports (41" ID, whereas the old stairs entered in the 50" gap between the first two posts). It doesn't matter how tall or short the deck is, we usually always do this way. The bottom of the stair stringers are usually notched to fit around a perpendicular 2x4 cleat bolted to the concrete floor. These hangers are adjustable to fit most types of wood structured stairs. Learn more in this comprehensive article on deck stairway stringers. If you have ever seen a stair stringer or other parts of a stairway sitting on top of a concrete paver that eventually created problems for people using them, then this is your video. Another approach is to form and pour a concrete landing pad and attach the stringers to the pad. Building deck stairs can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can do it safely and securely! In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll show you exactly how to measure, cut, assemble . Attach two to each stringer bolted to the concrete. Much like attaching 4x4 posts to concrete you would use a couple of 4x4 post bases. Jan 18, 2024 · Peek inside our DIY journey on how to build stairs for a deck, figuring out the stringer calculations, and our lessons-learned. Learn how to attach stairs to a deck to keep your outdoor living space safe, cozy, and secure. Stair stringers need to be properly connected to the deck, and treads properly connected to the stringers, in order to resist loads and perform reliably over time. We go over a couple ways to attach the stringers, and how I plan to takle this project with a landing half way down the stairs. I'm also doing stair guards to match the railings on the rest of the deck so at the very least I How Do I Fasten The Lower Section of The Stairway To A Concrete Foundation? The picture above shows two 4 x 12 stair stringers sitting on top of a concrete pad, with an L bracket attached to each one on the inside. Over the years, I have tried the old ways of mounting the post on the outside of the stringer and adding a couple of bolts—a technique that never worked, and especially won’t work today because of the way that building codes have changed: Deck posts All My Favorite DIY Tools: https://geni. I. Step 2: Cut and attach risers Cut riser boards to match the measured dimensions. Oct 22, 2024 · Attaching Stringers to the Deck First, position the first and last stringers at the edges of your stair opening, securing these outer stringers to the deck frame using L-brackets. Simple deck stairs DIY tips. com. Deck Stringers – How to Make Stair Stringers How to Make Stair Stringers Nov 5, 2015 · Standard metal framing connectors (the model numbers shown in this case are for Simpson Strong-Tie products) can be used to mount stair posts to concrete piers or a slab so that they are above grade, and to reinforce the connection between the posts and the stringers. Jul 17, 2023 · Stair stringers are the angled supports that hold the steps in place, connecting the deck surface to the ground. Properly securing these support elements ensures both stability and durability, helping to prevent accidents and extending the lifespan of your stairs. Options for securing stringers How you choose to attach the stringer to the deck framing will depend on your preference and on the project details. Enhance your home's aesthetics and safety Learn about attaching stairs to a deck using any of these common construction methods. Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva builds a safe and solid set of porch stairs. Apr 4, 2025 · I’m trying to attach stair stringers to a cantilevered porch. Secure the stringers to the deck or landing using structural screws for stability. The other is 1' 3" high with 3 steps, 48" w with 5 stringers. Jul 16, 2009 · Is there a way I can attach my 2x12 stringers to a 2x8 rim joist so I don't have to make the 1st stair the same level as the deck? My issue is that the additional step will mean that my stairs will 1) stick further into my yard (not desirable) 2) will have to buy longer stringers then what I A step by step guide to install new stairs at a back door. Now bolt on the planks. Jan 1, 2011 · Attaching Stringers I’ve seen more than a dozen different methods used to mount stairs to the deck frame, from blocks nailed to the framing between the stringers, to toenailed stringers and stringers notched onto a joist hanger. Apr 8, 2025 · Follow our step-by-step guide to install deck stair railings like a pro. You dont want the stringer to be sitting in wet terrain as it will rot even if its PT. Fasten the bottom of the staircase to the walkway using 3-inch masonry screws. Install treated treads for outdoor use and even add risers if In this video, learn how to properly install stair stringer hangers. What’s the best would to do that? Blocking behind the rim joist that extends down? Or stair stringer hangers? I’m not going to have it Aug 20, 2018 · I started working on my front porch steps this weekend, and I got most of the basic framework finished. These usually are only 4-6" deep that the stair rests on. End-nailing, toe-nailing, or screwing stringers to a header is not allowed per the International Residential Code. We cover the ups and downs of stairway building for decks in this article with two methods for attaching the stringers to the deck frame. They go from a small concrete landing at the top with brick on the sides. The connection between stair stringer and deck comes to a simple strap-style hanger. You need to make sure the hanger board is very solid. This is a very informative video that describes that standard method In today's video, we are going to show you how we like to attach a staircase to a deck. First, I measure down and mark the height of where I want the stringers t Sep 1, 2025 · How to attach stair stringers to a deck? Stair stringers are usually attached to a deck using galvanized steel stair stringer connectors or joist hangers that are fastened to the rim joists. Aug 5, 2025 · Attaching stair stringers to a house is a crucial step in building a safe and sturdy staircase for your deck, porch, or other outdoor structure. Attaching Stringers: Secure the Stringers to the Deck Frame: Attach the top of the stringers to the deck frame using L-brackets or joist hangers, ensuring they are level and properly aligned. Stair Railing - Base Posts Cut two 4x4 rail posts about 4 feet long (1219 mm) and attach a galvanized post anchor to the bottom end of each post. Jul 13, 2016 · The Fine Homebuilding article “Stronger, Smarter Deck Stairs” by Steven Baczek and Mike Brussard (Issue 258 – April/May 2016) offered a number of great suggestions. Today we'll share this DIY TIP on how to easily attach wooden stair steps to a concrete foundation # do it yourself Aug 31, 2017 · Since stringers carry the entire load of the stairs, they must be securely fastened at the top. Mar 14, 2025 · Attach stair stringers without brackets using secure methods like ledger boards, concrete anchors, and direct framing for safe and sturdy stairs. I'm guessing it's block/concrete with brick on the outside, the top Sep 26, 2024 · Specific Applications for Stair Stringers When attaching stair stringers to a deck or post, there are specific guidelines to follow. Get a cheap black/white nylon cutting board and cut pucks 1-1/2" square, pre drill and apply with a deck screw at the front, middle and back of the level cut on the bottom of said stringer. 57K subscribers Subscribe This video will provide you with a few ways to attach your stair stringers to either a concrete floor or a wood framed subfloor and deck. Oct 15, 2006 · Anchoring your deck stairs to a level landing is important for long lasting stairs. Concrete landings are typically poured under the bottom of the stairs. In this guide, we will show you how to attach stair stringers to a deck. More than likely the stringers are securely affixed at the base and are preventing them from slipping out… And if you live in a cold climate and your deck is connected to the house, you will have to make sure the concrete extends down below the frost depth. May 27, 2011 · That is pretty amusing. Our next Pro-Follow will address flashing the deck and laying the composite deck boards. Remove the thicknesses of the cutting board in your math when figuring Jul 17, 2017 · In order for a wooden stairway to be safe, the stringers (support boards) should be securely fastened to both the upper and lower floors. In this case, we are pouring a 4'x4' pad. Learn how to layout and space deck stair stringers in our step-by-step guide at Decks. Follow these steps to build a safe set of wood deck stairs now. Our calculator makes it fast to draw stringer details. Featured Interviews: John Cox, LEED APFor Aug 5, 2011 · Hi Folks! I need advice or education about how to attach stair stringers on a sand-set brick landing. Step Three: Attach Stringers Space stringers 16 inches apart below the deck boards to form a solid structural support. See full list on doityourself. Rough to rough and drop the stringers (add one additional tread thickness to the rise) if you finish up on concrete. com Oct 8, 2025 · A stair stringer is a frame at either side of a flight of stairs into which the treads and risers are attached. Here are some key considerations for stair dimensions and connections: Stringers: Use … Continue reading "Decks Done Right Series I have always notched out the bottom of my stringers to allow for a 2x4 then used strikers or tapcons to attach that 2x4 to the slab. There are several code requirements to consider for posts and stringers. Several building manufacturers make hangers that you can use to fasten stair stringers to concrete. Apr 23, 2010 · When you layout stringers, you have to measure the rough-to-rough rise from where the stair begins on the ground or concrete to the top of the deck joists. Jun 3, 2025 · Attaching stair stringers to a joist is a critical step in building safe and sturdy stairs for your deck or home. I'm concerned, however, that frost heave lifting the slab up and down may put excessive stress on the deck, either at the stringer/joist connections or up where the deck railings meet the stair railings. I’ve become more conservative with age, and I worry about the long-term Apr 14, 2015 · When you are installing the Simpson Strong-Tie LSC stair bracket shown in the video, the header blocking (or rim joist) that the stairs attach to must extend at least 3 1/2 inches past the point where the stringer is mounted, as shown in the illustration at right. May 28, 2025 · Unstable deck stairs can lead to serious injury. Is there an accepted best practice for how to construct a durable, safe exterior-stair landing for a deck or porch staircase that terminates on the ground? I’ve done them in a mind-boggling variety of ways—from stringers resting on solid concrete blocks over a bed of crushed stone, to treated 4x4s attached to deep (sometimes 5-ft. Be sure they are square with the deck and the same distance apart at the bottom as the top. These hangers provide a range of adjustments that allow them to fit a variety of different types of wood-structured stairs. Bolt the bottom of the stringers down to your piles, blocks or sidewalk. gbpr nic9ca wdw 17ac9ved xcedw yfv bisjua zgos r3lik afbobs4