How to Install Deck-Stair Treads
Take a look at the basics of deck-stair construction, including lumber options, spacing and overhang distance, and types of screws and fasteners.
Common deck stair tread configurations include 2 pieces of 5/4 x 6 or 2 x 6 lumber, 3 pieces of 5/4 x 4 or 2 x 4 lumber, or a single piece of 2×12.lumber.
For 5/4 treads stringers are spaced no more than 12 inches apart.
For 2x treads stringers are spaced no more than 16 inches apart.
To minimize cracking at the ends, treads should overhang the stringers by at least 1 inch.
Before installing treads, apply copper naphthenate to be exposed cuts on the stringers to avoid rot.
For fastening, use corrosion-resistant screws long enough to penetrate the stringer by at least 1 1/2 inches.
For accuracy use a square to align screws. 4- and 6- inch wide treads get 2 screws into each stringer and 12-inch wide treads get 3 screws.
View Comments
Predrill the treads at the ends or they will split as they dry out. .
Not sure how the stringers are hung to the deck joist or what the decking is, but the treads should be the same depth as whatever the decking is or you will get a trip up at the top step or awkward step going up or down.
Who installs treads (or even decking) with the ring growth (cup) turned upwards???
I have an issue in that the two tread planks are placed touching each other. The material is obviously not particularly rot resistant, and he DOES suggest using a end cut type product, why not give a space for the boards? They are going to trap detritus and promote rot. Here in Northern CA, I found that if I used 3/8" spacing, I have almost no buildup, much easier to clean stairs when they get leaves or needles too.
Remember that "building to code" is the worst you can legally build? I'm so tired of treads that don't fit my size 13 feet. Not to mention risers for partially handicapped.... Since my deck is Trek, why not the treads - with gaps as California user-374510 points out? It seems like no-one takes stairs beyond code. So what if I lose 5 inches of lawn on one end and gravel on the other.