How To Construct Outside Stairwells?

Building porch steps is a DIY project that involves calculating the run of the steps, measuring from the bottom of the level to the ground using a 4-foot (1.2 m) level set on the top of the porch, and multiplying 5 steps by 10.5 inches (26.7 cm). This step-by-step guide will show you how to build a safe and solid set of porch steps that are more accessible for someone with mobility issues.

To build outdoor wooden steps, start by removing shrubs and plants from the spot where the steps will be located, which could be alongside the house, a porch, or a deck. Next, estimate step dimensions, layout and cut stair stringers, and assemble the stair parts.

1. Demo Step: Cut out and attach stringers with brackets.
2. Attach the Risers: Draw out the first stringer and cut them.
3. Multiply 5 steps by 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) to get the run (or length) of steps from the face of the porch to the end of the steps.
4. Secure the stringers to the deck or porch using brackets.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to estimate step dimensions, layout and cut stair stringers, and assemble the stair parts. By following these steps, you can enhance your exterior with concrete steps and make your porch steps more accessible for those with mobility issues.

Do concrete steps need a foundation?

Ian, a common question about installing footings under steps is that they are a foundation made of concrete and rebar that spreads vertical loads from the steps. They must be installed below the frost depth, which is the maximum depth the ground will freeze in any particular area. In the Twin Cities metro area, frost depth is 3 1/2 feet. Footings prevent the set of steps from settling or moving, ensuring that the steps are poured exactly where they are poured. This is important when steps are attached to any structure built on a footing/foundation.

In case of entry steps, it is important to avoid steps moving relative to the house, as sinking could cause a large step down from the house, pulling away could create a gap between the steps and house, and prematurely causing the steps to degrade. Most code ordinances require footings, but many contractors did not install them to save on costs.

On the other hand, lawn steps do not need footings because they are not attached to anything else with footings. If a set of lawn steps moves due to frost heave or other reasons, the consequences do not justify the cost of installing footings. Overall, LCM recommends installing footings for entry steps and most cities, but some contractors may violate code and install steps without footings.

What kind of wood do you use for porch steps?

Cedar and Redwood are two popular wood types for outdoor wooden stairs. When choosing the right wood for your deck stairs, consider factors such as budget, climate, and local conditions. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s essential to research and consult local experts for advice. This article provides essential tips to help you make an informed decision and choose the wood that will work best for your future patio stairs.

Whether you’re planning a DIY project or hiring a contractor, it’s crucial to consider factors such as climate, budget, and local conditions when choosing the right wood for your outdoor living space. By following these tips, you can ensure your outdoor wooden stairs are built with the best quality and durability.

What is the standard rise and run for porch steps?

When planning outdoor stairs, consider five basic design elements: Total Run, Total Rise, Run, Rise, and Passage Width. The slope of the stairway should be between 30 degrees and 35 degrees, with an ideal riser height of 7 inches with an 11-inch run. The passage width can also vary depending on the weight of the stairs, with 36 inches being the minimum for a single person and 48 inches for a single person.

A stairway consists of four basic components: Stringers, Treads, Risers, and Railing Assembly. Stringers support the stairway and are typically made from good quality material like pressure-treated pine or 2×2 lumber. Treads are horizontal members that walk on, while Risers are vertical members at the back of each tread. Surfaced boards (3/4″ net thickness) are the most common material used.

The Railing Assembly consists of posts, a cap rail, and vertical balusters between each post. Codes regulate the overall height of the railing assembly (usually 30″ to 34″) and may specify a maximum width for the handrail.

Total rise is calculated by dividing the total run by the number of risers, which can range from 5. 78 up to 6 risers. The passage width can also vary depending on the amount of stairs to be used. Overall, the design of an outdoor stairway should consider these factors to ensure a comfortable and functional space.

How to build concrete porch steps?

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to pour concrete steps for a porch or outdoor entryway. The process involves measuring the rise and run of the area, laying out footings 3 inches wider than the steps, anchoring concrete steps, outlining steps, checking square, level, and plum, installing riser forms, attaching braces, and building perpendicular steps. Concrete steps provide a sturdy transition between an outdoor surface and the entry to a house.

The answer to determining the height and depth of each step can be found through simple math. Local codes often require the top landing to extend at least 12 inches beyond the door swing. To calculate the total run, subtract the width of an out-swinging door from the length between the foundation and the outside edge of the steps.

How to build steps for beginners?

Stairs are a crucial component of construction projects, consisting of three main parts: stringers, treads, and risers. Stringers are diagonal boards that support weight as people walk up stairs, while treads are the top baseboards onto which you step. Risers are placed perpendicularly under each tread. To build stairs, measure the height of the area to determine the number of risers, cut the stringer boards to size with a circular saw, and install them.

Cut the risers to be exactly the same height for each step and insert them. Measure, cut, and secure the treads in place. The total rise, also known as the total rise, is the height of the stairs, and if you don’t plan to make the top step level with the area where the stairs begin, account for this gap in your measurement.

What is the formula to build steps?

The Blondel Formula, developed by 17th-century French architect François Blondel, is a golden rule in architecture that helps calculate stairs that are comfortable to walk on. It states that 2 Risers + 1 Tread = 25 inches (63-65 cm), and that there is no true standard stride length across all ages. To ensure additional comfort, the sum of one riser plus one tread (r+T) should be close to 18 inches (46cm). Following these rules ensures a comfortable stride for most people.

What is the 27 rule for stairs?

Stairways must be at least 36 inches in width, with exceptions. The building code specifies a minimum width based on the area above the permitted handrail height and below the required headroom height. If handrails are installed on each side, the required width is 27 inches (686 mm) and 31-1/2 inches (800 mm) if only one handrail is installed. Inspectors don’t need to worry about trim, stringers, or other items below the handrail’s projection, as long as they don’t exceed the handrail’s projection.

Spiral stairways can be as narrow as 26 inches (660 mm). The number of stringers installed at a wood-framed stairway is related to the 36-inch minimum width. If cut stringers are used, at least three are required, spaced no more than 18 inches on center. If the stairway is wider than 36 inches, four stringers should be installed. A combination of cut and solid stringers can be used, but the maximum spacing between the stringers should be 18 inches (457 mm) on center.

How to build simple porch steps?

This guide provides instructions on building porch steps for moderately experienced DIYers. It covers the process of calculating the rise, run, and number of steps, as well as measuring and cutting the stringers, riser boards, and tread boards. The steps are then connected to the porch using screws and nails. The final step is to paint or stain the steps to protect them from moisture and UV radiation.

Before starting, it is essential to familiarize oneself with the terminology used to describe the steps. The rise is the height of each step, the run is the length of each step, and the total run is the total length of the stairs. The steps are then connected using stringers, ribs, and treads. The guide emphasizes the importance of proper installation and maintenance to ensure the longevity and beauty of the porch steps.

What is the depth of porch steps?

The minimum depth for stairway treads is 10 inches, with a nosing of either 3/4 inch or 1 1/4 inch. No nosing is required for tread depths of 11 inches or greater.

What is the best concrete mix for outside steps?

The use of pre-mixed concrete is typically preferred; however, if one elects to mix the concrete oneself, a 3:2:1 ratio of blue metal, sand, and cement is suitable for the majority of concreting applications. The requisite quantities of materials are 60 kg of blue metal, 40 kg of sand, and 20 kg of cement.

Why is 37 degrees the best angle for stairs?

37 degrees is an ideal stair angle for various reasons. It optimizes the ratio of the tread to the riser for average human stride lengths, providing a natural and comfortable ascent and descent. Stairs steeper than 37 degrees can increase the risk of falls and be more challenging for people with mobility issues. They also offer a good balance between vertical and horizontal space, allowing for a comfortable rise without extending too far into the space.

The International Building Code (IBC) and the American Standard Architects (ADA) both require stair slopes to not exceed a 7:11 ratio, approximately 37 degrees, with a maximum riser height of 7 inches and a minimum tread depth of 11 inches. These guidelines ensure safety by preventing stairs from being too steep and maintaining consistency in step dimensions. Uniformity in riser heights and tread depths across all steps is crucial for safety and accessibility under ADA guidelines.