Inside Corner Deck Stairs: A Comprehensive Guide

Oleh Ida Satterfield Sr. Juni 11, 2023 Posting Komentar

Are you planning to build a deck in your backyard? Or maybe you already have one, but you're thinking of adding stairs to make it more accessible and functional. If that's the case, then you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we'll be discussing everything you need to know about inside corner deck stairs.

Deck stairs are an essential element of any elevated deck. They provide a safe and easy way to access your deck from the ground level and vice versa. Inside corner deck stairs are a popular choice for decks that have a 90-degree angle. These stairs are designed to fit snugly into the corner of the deck and provide a seamless transition between levels.

When it comes to building inside corner deck stairs, there are many factors to consider, such as the type of wood, the number of steps, the width of the stairs, and the railing design. In this article, we'll cover all the basics of inside corner deck stairs and give you some tips on how to build them efficiently and safely.

1. Types of Wood

One of the first decisions you'll need to make when building inside corner deck stairs is what type of wood to use. There are many options available, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the most common types of wood used for deck stairs:

Pressure-treated Pine

Pressure-treated pine is the most affordable and popular option for deck stairs. It's treated with chemicals that make it resistant to rot and insects, making it a durable choice for outdoor use. However, it can be prone to cracking and warping over time.

Cedar

Cedar is a beautiful and durable wood that resists rot and insect damage naturally. It's also lightweight and easy to work with. However, it can be expensive compared to other options.

Redwood

Redwood is another popular choice for deck stairs. It's naturally resistant to decay and insects and has a beautiful reddish-brown color. However, it can be expensive and difficult to work with due to its hardness.

Composite

Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic. It's low-maintenance, durable, and resistant to rot and insect damage. However, it can be more expensive than wood options.

2. Number of Steps

The number of steps you'll need for your inside corner deck stairs will depend on the height of your deck. The building code requires that each step should be no more than 7.75 inches high and at least 10 inches deep. To calculate the number of steps, divide the height of your deck by 7.75 inches and round up to the nearest whole number.

3. Width of Stairs

The width of your inside corner deck stairs will also depend on the size of your deck and the amount of foot traffic you expect. The standard width for deck stairs is between 36 and 48 inches. However, if you have a large deck or anticipate heavy foot traffic, you may want to consider making your stairs wider.

4. Railing Design

The railing design of your inside corner deck stairs is an important consideration for both safety and aesthetics. The building code requires that all stairs with four or more risers should have a handrail on at least one side. You can choose from a variety of railing designs, including:

Vertical balusters
Horizontal rails
Cable railing
Glass panels
Metal pickets

5. Stringer Layout

The stringers are the structural supports that run underneath the treads and risers of your stairs. The layout of your stringers will depend on the number of steps and the width of your stairs. There are two common types of stringer layout:

Open stringers: The treads and risers are attached to the outside of the stringers, creating a visible gap between the steps.
Closed stringers: The treads and risers are attached to the inside of the stringers, hiding the gap between the steps.

6. Tread and Riser Dimensions

The tread is the horizontal part of each step where you place your foot, while the riser is the vertical part that connects each tread. The standard dimensions for tread and riser are:

Tread depth: 10 inches
Riser height: 7.75 inches

However, some building codes may allow for slightly different dimensions. It's important to check your local building code before building your stairs.

7. Building Code Requirements

Speaking of building code, it's essential to comply with all the local regulations when building inside corner deck stairs. The building code sets minimum standards for structural safety, including the size and spacing of the components, the maximum load capacity, and the railing height and design. Make sure to obtain all the necessary permits and inspections before ing your project.

8. Tools and Materials

To build inside corner deck stairs, you'll need a variety of tools and materials, including:

Circular saw
Power drill
Hammer
Level
Carpenter's square
Deck screws or nails
Wood glue
Sandpaper
Stain or paint (optional)

Make sure to have all the necessary tools and materials before ing your project to avoid delays.

9. Step-by-step Process

Here's a general overview of how to build inside corner deck stairs:

Measure the height and width of your deck to determine the number of steps and the stair width.
Cut your stringers according to the layout you've chosen.
Attach the stringers to the deck frame using hangers or brackets.
Install the treads and risers on top of the stringers, ing from the bottom step and working your way up.
Attach the railing posts to the stringers and install the handrail and balusters according to your chosen design.
Sand and finish your stairs with stain or paint if desired.

For a more detailed guide, consult online tutorials or professional carpenters.

10. Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of your inside corner deck stairs. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Regularly inspect your stairs for signs of wear and tear, such as loose screws or cracked wood.
Keep your stairs clean and free of debris that could cause slips or falls.
Apply a sealant or protective coating to prevent moisture damage and fading.
Refinish your stairs every few years to maintain their appearance and durability.

Inside corner deck stairs can be a beautiful and functional addition to any deck. With the right tools, materials, and knowledge, you can build them yourself and enjoy your deck safely and comfortably. Remember to follow the building code requirements, choose high-quality wood, and take good care of your stairs to ensure their longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is an inside corner deck stair?

An inside corner deck stair is a type of deck stair that fits into the corner of a deck that has a 90-degree angle.

Q2. How do you calculate the number of steps for inside corner deck stairs?

To calculate the number of steps, divide the height of your deck by 7.75 inches and round up to the nearest whole number.

Q3. What is the standard width for inside corner deck stairs?

The standard width for deck stairs is between 36 and 48 inches.

Q4. Do inside corner deck stairs require a railing?

Yes, if your stairs have four or more risers, they should have a handrail on at least one side according to the building code.

Q5. What type of wood is best for inside corner deck stairs?

There are many options available, but pressure-treated pine, cedar, redwood, and composite decking are some of the most common choices.

Q6. Can I build inside corner deck stairs myself?

Yes, with the right tools, materials, and knowledge, you can build inside corner deck stairs yourself. However, it's important to follow the building code requirements and obtain all the necessary permits and inspections.

Q7. How often do I need to maintain my inside corner deck stairs?

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the safety and longevity of your stairs. You should inspect them regularly for signs of wear and tear, keep them clean and free of debris, apply a protective coating, and refinish them every few years.

Q8. What is the difference between open and closed stringers?

Open stringers have the treads and risers attached to the outside of the stringers, creating a visible gap between the steps. Closed stringers have the treads and risers attached to the inside of the stringers, hiding the gap between the steps.

Q9. How do I choose the right railing design for my inside corner deck stairs?

The railing design of your stairs should be both safe and aesthetically pleasing. You can choose from a variety of designs, such as vertical balusters, horizontal rails, cable railing, glass panels, or metal pickets.

Q10. Are there any special considerations for building inside corner deck stairs?

Make sure to comply with the local building code requirements, choose high-quality materials, and follow proper maintenance procedures. It's also important to take into account the size and foot traffic of your deck when deciding on the number of steps and stair width.