Stair Tread Nosing
When building your stairs, it usually works well to use two deck boards to build the stair tread. The tread is the part of the stair that you walk on and is held in place by fasteners mounted to the horizontal surface of the stair stringers. When installing the tread, many builders project the front end of the deck boards over the stringer by the thickness of the riser as well as about an inch as a nose. This projected step helps protect the riser from becoming loosened over time. It is a nice detail that adds definition to the stairs. It is usually most attractive to use a radius edge or bull nose face for the stair nosing. Most 5/4 wood decking is sold as radius edge. If you are using 2x6 that has a square corner, you can use a router to round over the edge.
How to Build Box Steps for Your Deck
Learn how to build a set of box platforms to act as stairs for a low deck. You don't need to cut stair stringers.
Anchoring Deck Stairs
Learn how to anchor your deck stairs to a concrete landing pad or footings. Follow our step-by-step instructions with photos.
Stair Stringer Layout
Step-by-step instructions for measuring and laying out your deck stair stringers.
Glass Deck Railing Ideas and DIY Installation Tips
All glass panels used for deck railings must be safety-tempered and shatter-resistant. Learn how to install glass railing panels and get ideas for your deck.
Installing Deck Stair Railings
Step-by-step instructions for how to install deck stair railings. Learn about the code requirements and construction tips with images.
Top 18 Deck Railing Ideas & Designs
Railings add the finishing touch to your deck. Get inspired by these deck railing ideas and styles from Decks.com and make your outdoor space unique.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Closed Stair Risers
Learn about the benefits of installing riser boards on your deck stairs.
Stair Stringer Layout
Step-by-step instructions for measuring and laying out your deck stair stringers.
How to Build Deck Steps and Stairs
Stairs can be one of the most challenging aspects of building a deck. Find out how to build deck steps and watch our step-by-step DIY video.
5 Cable Railing Ideas to Inspire Your Deck or Porch Railing
Cable railing adds a modern touch for those looking to add a unique twist to their deck or porch. These top ideas offer inspiration and guidance on cable railing for your deck.
How to Build a Deck Privacy Screen
In some deck design situations, you may feel that it is important to block certain views to increase privacy. This can usually be achieved by building a privacy wall or fence.
Installing Deck Stair Railings
Step-by-step instructions for how to install deck stair railings. Learn about the code requirements and construction tips with images.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights