Looking at a job to build a set of deck stairs from an existing deck down to a 4″ slab, covered with tile, that has yet to be layed. The stairs will be about 4′ wide at the top and flare out 1′ on each side near the bottom. The stringer length will be about 8 to 10 feet.
Two questions here. Will a normal 4″ slab need to be beefed up where the stairs will rest on them.
The other is for any sugestions about making a curved stringer for the flared bottoms. I’m thinking of 4 strait stringers with the steps pattern cut into them for under the steps (carriage stringers), then closed side stringers with the curves built into them.
I’ve got a little experience with bent laminations for smaller projects. What I’m thinking about doing here is milling 6 – 11 1/2 X 1/4″ slices and glueing them up to make each 2×12 curved side stringer. I’d make a couple of cauls to form the curves and use the vacume press for the clamping. I’m thinking gorilla glue for the laminations.
The wood will be acq treated.
Any sugestions or input will be appriciated.
Replies
Look back into Issue #83, if you got it, at "Fantail Deck Stairs" pg. 74-76.
And more recently, Issue #162, "Curved Deck Stairs" pg. 82-87.
I can'y comment without knowing how many steps and what climate this will be in.
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probably 8 to 10 steps, 4 to 6 feet wide. Raliegh, nc.
The slab is fine then. No comment on placing stone/tile on these.
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As far as strengthening the slab, I'd say it's not necessary unless it will be used by elephants on pogo sticks.
I re read - the tile is going on the slab, not the stair treads. Be sure you know the thickness before you layout the stringers so your finished riser is right.
I'd do 'bout same for the twist at bottom.
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