How to Lead Deck Stairs to a Patio
Decks are often built before patios in order to allow frost footings to be placed without disrupting the concrete slab. It is best not to attempt building both projects at the same time so you can focus your attention on the job at-hand. If you are planning on installing a concrete patio below the position of your stair landing, you will need to adjust your stair design to properly land on it once it is completed. You may need to postpone your final deck inspection until the patio is installed for the stairs to meet the uniform riser and tread requirements. In the meantime, you should brace the bottoms of the stairs.
SaveSome deck builders install a concrete landing below deck stairs at grade. The minimum size for a stair landing is 36" x 36" in front of the stairs. You will want to rest your stair stringer on 12" of the concrete landing. In this case, we are pouring a 4'x4' pad.
SaveFind the location to build your concrete forms. Use a level and a tape measure to determine your elevation. Use the Decks.com Stairs Calculator to determine your stair run.
SaveIn this case, we used the joist material from tearing down the deck for the concrete forms. We used wood stakes to secure the form.
SavePour the concrete and level the surface with a magnesium float.
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.
Cutting Stair Stringers
The stair stringers are essentially the backbone of your staircase. Learn how to properly measure, cut, and build deck stair stringers.
Building Cascading or Wrap Around Stairs
Learn how to build a set of cascading or flared stairs around an angled corner of a deck.
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.
Best Aluminum Deck Railings: Reviews & Benefits
Aluminum deck railings are a great low maintenance option for any home. Compare different materials and find the best aluminum deck railing system for you.
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.
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.
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.
Building an ADA Deck Ramp
Learn how to build an ADA-accessible wheelchair ramp onto your deck to meet building codes. Ramps must have a 1:12 slope.
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.
Cocktail Railing Considerations & Ideas
A cocktail rail is the ideal enhancement for a deck railing. Explore what to consider when introducing a drink rail to your deck.
Low-Maintenance Composite Deck Railing Options
Composite railing systems offer a low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood railings. Learn why composite is the best railing system at Decks.com.
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