Does anyone have suggestions for lumber to be used for external stairs. I was thinking pressure treated for the stringers and hemlock for the treads. The treads would be screwed on with stainless steel screws.
Any thoughts or can you point me to a good article?
Thanks, Dennis
Replies
Dennis, I like to use unusual materials for treads, but I live in Vancouver. I have no idea where you live (hint: fill out your profile information).
Pressure treated materials for external use are always a good bet.
Quality repairs for your home.
AaronR Construction
Vancouver, Canada
Untreated hemlock is generally a poor choice for an exterior application. In the NW, I'm used to seeing "appearance grade" PT (aka "outdoor wood"), cedar, Ipe, or possibly Doug Fir for the treads. You could also use synthetics, of course, but it sounds like you're wanting to use real wood.
Regular PT is a good choice for the stringers and other framing. You can always cap it with a 1x trim board for appearance reasons.
Edited 8/23/2007 2:51 am ET by Ragnar17
I'd certainly go with PT, and use square-drive deck screws. The wood iteslf won't be particularly pretty, so make an interesting design.
http://forums.taunton.com/tp-breaktime/messages?msg=82119.20
Forrest