Loading

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. 

A solid landing.
PinterestSave
A solid landing.

Some 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.

Total Rise, Total Run
PinterestSave
Total Rise, Total Run

Find 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.

A box concrete form.
PinterestSave
A box concrete form.

In this case, we used the joist material from tearing down the deck for the concrete forms. We used wood stakes to secure the form.

Use a minimum of 2,500 psi concrete mix.
PinterestSave
Use a minimum of 2,500 psi concrete mix.

Pour the concrete and level the surface with a magnesium float.

Popular Stairs Articles
Staircases

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.

Staircases

Stair Stringer Layout

Step-by-step instructions for measuring and laying out your deck stair stringers.

Staircases

Installing Deck Stair Railings

Ensure your deck stair railing is safe, sturdy, and code compliant with this expert DIY guide. Learn about permits, materials, tools, and the best practices for a flawless installation.

Next Step: Railings Articles
Glass Railing

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.

Deck Railing Parts

How To Fix Loose Deck Railing and Prevent Wobbly Banisters for Years

Learn how to fix a loose outdoor railing on your deck to avoid future damage.

Deck Railing Types

Vinyl Deck Railing Reviews, Comparisons, & Costs

Compare Vinyl Deck Railings to wood, aluminum, and composite. Find reviews and cost information to help choose the best deck railing for your home at Decks.com.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Popular Stairs Articles
Staircases

Installing Deck Stair Railings

Ensure your deck stair railing is safe, sturdy, and code compliant with this expert DIY guide. Learn about permits, materials, tools, and the best practices for a flawless installation.

Staircases

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.

Staircases

Stairway Lighting

Learn about how to install low-voltage deck stair lighting.

Next Step: Railings Articles
Deck Railing Parts

Baluster Basics: Types, Installation Tips, and Deck Design Ideas to Transform Your Space

Discover everything you need to know about deck balusters, from code requirements to material options and installation tips. Explore practical advice and stylish infill alternatives to help bring your project to life with confidence.

Glass Railing

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.

Railing Codes

Deck Railing Height Requirements

Understanding deck railing height is important for meeting code requirements. Learn how high you should build your deck railing.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic