Building a step out of decking is a simple project that you can do in just a few hours. This DIY method involves using treated lumber as the base material and framing it with pressure-treated lumber. The stair itself is constructed using four 2 x 8 boards, and 2 x 8 boards are used to create the landing at the top.
Build a step out of decking to protect your stairs from being slippery, or for decoration. Step constructions can be simple and inexpensive, but require some carpentry knowledge. The construction details may vary based on what kind of decking you are using. You can construct steps from PVC boards or composite lumber depending on your budget and the dimensions you want your steps to be.
Building a step from decking only requires basic carpentry skills and a few common tools. The design of the step is easier than you might think, as long as you follow a few guidelines. Most importantly, ensure that your deck is well-constructed and has been attached to the home’s framing at each joist connection with appropriate fasteners so that it can support an entire staircase.
If you’re looking to build a step out of decking material, then you’ve come to the right place. This article will help you replace an old staircase and make a new one using redwood decking material.
Select Redwood For Your Deck
Redwood is often considered the ideal building material for decking. Redwood is versatile and easy to work with, making it a good choice if you are a DIYer. Redwood has many of the same qualities as cedar, but is more durable and resistant to insects, rot and mold. It also does not need to be treated with pesticides or chemicals like cedar does (which simplifies maintenance).
The grain patterns found in redwoods allow them to be easily worked into different shapes such as planks or beams. Redwoods can also be stained or varnished in any color you like.
Measure Your Floor Area
Measure the length and width of your floor area. Measure the height of your floor area, including any steps you may have. This will allow you to buy enough decking material to cover the entire area, as well as enough wood to make four new steps (or just one step if that’s all you need). You’ll want to use pressure treated wood for this project because it will last longer than untreated lumber. If you are only replacing one step, use the same kind of wood that’s already on your steps; this should save money in both time and materials.
Purchase Decking Material
If you want to build a deck, the first thing to do is purchase the decking material. Redwood is the best choice for this job. Redwood is durable and will last a long time. It’s easy to work with and easy to install on your deck building project. After reading this article, you’ll know how to select redwood for your particular needs and how much of it you will need for your project.
Remove The Old Step
First, remove the old step. If you’re going to be putting in a new one in its place, it’s important to remove any nails or screws from your decking boards that were holding the old step in place. Take care not to damage any boards when you do this; if you need help prying off stubborn pieces, use a crowbar for leverage.
Once everything is out of the way and your decking is clear of splinters from the old steps and loose nails or screws, take out your hammer and begin pulling up on each end of the old step (this will be easiest if someone helps hold down one side). Then work on pulling up from underneath until there’s nothing left but scraps.
Build The New Step
Before you begin construction, make sure that the wood is dry. If it’s not, let it sit for a few weeks in an open area so that it can dry out properly.
Next, set up a framing square and use it to mark out where your railing posts will go. (This is what will help hold up the railing.) Then use another framing square to mark out where your treads and risers will be placed on top of each other. Finally, use a third framing square to mark out where the stairs themselves will be laid down – one after another until you reach the landing at the end.
If there are any questions about this process or anything else related to building steps from decking materials? Just ask away by leaving comments below this post.
Install Post Decking
Once your foundation is laid, it’s time to install the post decking. What’s that? You don’t know what post decking is? That’s okay! It’s one of those terms you really only need to know if you’re planning a backyard remodel or building a new home. So let’s talk about how to do it.
- First, make sure that your deck boards are flat and level with each other. If they aren’t level yet, use a level to adjust them until they are flat on top of one another. Once this step is done, use a pencil to mark where each post will go in between each board in order to create an even pattern around the perimeter of your step area. Then hammer some stakes into the ground at these points (one stake per mark), making sure that they go deep enough into soil so that they won’t move when pressure comes down on them later on during installation process.
- Next come drill holes into wood posts at each stake location using cordless drill with bit set specifically made for hardwood materials like oak or maple flooring panels so drilling won’t wear out quickly before job complete; screw all four corners securely onto stakes using screws provided by manufacturer such as TimberTech® brand name product line
Finish The New Staircase
Once the stain is dry, it’s time to add a finish. When it comes to staining and sealing, there are lots of options available. You can use a power sander or an orbital sander; you can use a paintbrush or a paint roller; you can even use a paint sprayer if you want faster results. Whatever method you choose will depend on the look that you’re going for and your personal preferences.
A simple way to finish your new staircases is by using liquid polyurethane in semi-gloss or gloss finishes (depending on whether you like shiny stairs). This type of varnish resists chipping and fading better than other types of varnishes, which means they’ll last longer without needing as much maintenance work over time.
Build out your steps and replace them with beautiful, long lasting redwood decking material.
Step out of decking, and build a step out of redwood. Redwood is the best choice for outdoor steps, because it:
- Is durable and long lasting, so you won’t have to worry about replacing your steps for years to come.
- Is strong and sturdy, so you can walk up them with confidence.
- Is easy to work with, making installation simple for most DIY projects.
- Looks beautiful and natural next to any style of home or garden design.
- Is environmentally friendly because it’s grown from trees that thrive in forests that are healthy and protected from harmful chemicals and pesticides by local governments at all times during their growth cycle (unlike many other types of wood).
Final words
We hope these steps provide a helpful guide to help you easily replace your old decking. Adding a redwood step can be an easy and fun way to make your deck look magnificent. Make sure that you contact a professional to help you if need be, but in general this is a very manageable project for beginners or DIY enthusiasts. Good luck.
