Friday 17 December 2010

Building Deck Stairs on a Budget

As a professional, I've built many decks of all sizes and shapes. Stairs are often the last part of the deck to be tackled because they are usually the most difficult and expensive part of the deck to build. However, by using a method known as the 'engineered bracket system', not only can I save up to $500 per flight of stairs, but the installation is easy, with professional results.

The adjustable stair bracket system automatically adjusts to the exact rise and run needed. The customized rise and treads configurations can be adjusted to meet all building codes for any interior or exterior application. The brackets act as joist hangers which allow the stair risers to be used structurally, carrying the load across the stair like floor joists. Using only two outside stringers, the stair width can be up to nine feet wide and the stairs are strong. The need for interior stringers is eliminated. The outside stringers then require only 3 to 4 cuts each, and the risers and treads are simply attached to the brackets. If you make a mistake, you can readjust the brackets.

A wide range of materials such as redwood, cedar, tropical wood, treated wood, untreated wood, vinyl, steel, and composites can be used. Adjustable brackets allow for customized rise and tread configurations which can be adjusted to meet all building codes for any interior or exterior application.

This is how it works: Set the brackets on the two 2x6 stringer members using the spacers and pivot screws. Remove spacers and rotate brackets to adjust stair height. Fix brackets in position, attach risers and treads. 3D video demos are available on the website below.

Before you begin, determine the material you are going to use, the exact number of steps you need and the stair width.

You will need (2) 2x6's per stringer for each side. Make sure when you purchase your 2x6's make sure that they are straight without any twist. The 2x6's will need to be at least 12" longer than the total length of your stairs. Two stringers are sufficient to span up to 7' wide (exterior stair requirements).

For risers you will use 2x8's for riser heights up to 7-1/4" and 2x10's for higher risers. For treads you can use 2x12's (which is the easiest option). However, if you decide to use (2) 6 inch wide treads instead...wood or composite, you will need to use cleat brackets to bridge between the risers for tread support. Time saving tip: when you determine how many steps you will need and your stair width....get all your risers and treads pre-cut to exact lengths when you purchase the materials.

Tools/Materials needed will be: a power drill, saw (skill saw is preferable, but not required, #8 1 1/4" Phillips flat head or star/square drive screws for the stair brackets, #8 2 1/2" deck screws for every 9" of tread and riser connection and Spacers for customized riser and tread measurements.

The "Engineered Stair Bracket System" method eliminates the need to cut stringers and is tested to be much stronger and faster than conventional construction. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a do-it-yourselfer, you will build fast, strong and accurate stairs, on a budget.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Truckner