How Do You Build Exterior Wood Stairs?
Exterior wood stairs are a project a homeowner can accomplish with a few basic carpentry tools. The process is similar for all lengths and heights, and a variety of styles can be made with a few alterations to the basic structure. Stand a 2-by-4 against the deck stair opening, with one end of the 2-by-4 on the ground. Place a level against the side of the 2-by-4, and adjust the 2-by-4 so it is plumb. Measure the distance from the ground to the top of the stair opening. This measurement is the height required for the stairs. Divide the height to the top of the stair opening by 7, the typical height of a stair riser. For example, if the height is 62 inches, divide that by 7, and the result is 8.86. Divide 62 by 8.86 to determine the exact height needed for each riser. In this example, the height needed for each riser is exactly 7 inches. Determine the run, or number of treads, required for the stairs by multiplying the depth of each tread by 7. The tread should be at least 10 inches for
