Are you looking to tackle an outdoor home improvement project? Building exterior stairs with a landing is a great way to add both form and function to your deck, patio or porch. Exterior stairs provide easy access between different levels of your outdoor space, adding convenience and value to your home. In this blog post, we’ll explain how to build exterior stairs with landing in three simple steps: materials needed, measurements & marking and building the frame for the landing & stairs. We’ll also discuss some finishing touches and maintenance tips so that you can enjoy your new exterior stairs for years to come!
Materials Needed For Stairs With Landing
Before you start building exterior stairs with landing, you must have all of the necessary materials on hand. Here are the basic materials needed for this project:
- Pressure-treated wood – You will need pressure-treated wood for both the frame and the treads (horizontal boards forming each step). Choose a wood species that is suitable for outdoor use such as cedar or redwood.
- Concrete – You may need concrete if attaching stringers (wood strips) directly onto a concrete slab. Alternatively, consider using metal brackets if attaching stringers onto wood posts instead of concrete.
- Posts – If necessary, install posts at either end of the frame to give additional support. The recommended height will depend on whether you want one or two handrails installed around your stairway/landing area (more details below).
- Metal brackets – These are used when attaching stringers onto posts rather than directly onto concrete slabs/patio surfaces (optional).
- Handrails – Handrails provide safety and stability when climbing up or down stairs. Consider buying pre-assembled ones with balusters/spindles in matching materials (e.g., metal or wood).
- Skirting/panels – Skirting panels are optional but recommended since they help contain debris from entering underneath the stairway/landing area.
- Lighting fixtures – Installing lighting fixtures around exterior stairways adds security and ambiance; choose weatherproof lights if leaving them exposed outdoors.
- Sealant/paint – Applying sealant or paint provides an extra layer of protection against moisture damage; opt for anti-slip paint if used on treads.
- Hardware – Make sure to pick up any necessary hardware items such as screws, bolts etc before starting construction
Measurements & Marking Stairs & Landing
Once all materials are accounted for, it’s time to take measurements and mark out where each stringer will go about one another so that everything lines up properly when assembling later on. Measure twice before cutting any pieces of lumber! Use a measuring tape and level to ensure accuracy; use stakes or spray paint to mark where each piece should go into place once ready for assembly. This part is especially important since any errors here could result in a wobbly or uneven staircase.
Building the Frame for the Landing & Stairs
To begin building the frame for both the stairs and landing, attach stringers to either a concrete slab or posts as mentioned previously. If attaching to concrete, use metal brackets with screws; if attaching to posts instead, use lag bolts. The number of stringers needed will depend on how wide your stairway is – typically two or three stringers are used. Once attached securely, add risers (vertical boards that serve as steps) and treads (horizontal boards that form each step). Make sure to check the levelness often while assembling so that everything lines up properly! Next, secure handrails onto posts at the desired height(s). Again, two handrails may be necessary depending on how tall/wide your stairway is – consult local building codes for specific regulations in your area. Also, consider installing lighting fixtures around the stairs and landing area for added security and ambiance.
Finishing Touches & Maintenance Of Stairs & Landing
To finish off your exterior stairs project, consider adding skirting/panels around the bottom of the stairs and landing which will help contain debris from entering underneath the stairway/landing area. Applying sealant, paint or other protective coatings is also recommended although not necessary; anti-slip paints can be particularly helpful when used on treads to avoid slips/falls in wet conditions. Lastly, remember to regularly check hardware connections and inspect wood surfaces for signs of wear over time – replace worn parts when necessary so that your stairs remain stable and safe throughout many years of use!
How To Build Exterior Stairs With Landing Conclusion
Building exterior stairs with a landing can be a great way to add convenience and value to your home while creating an attractive outdoor living space at the same time! With careful planning beforehand including choosing appropriate materials – you’ll be able to create a beautiful new set of outdoor steps in no time. Remember too that safety should always come first; always adhere strictly to local building codes when installing new structures outside of your home.
