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.
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.
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.
Glass Rails
Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass...
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.
Cable Railing Ideas & Alternatives For Decks
Cable rails are a modern looking rail system that preserves views. Learn how to install cable rails to meet building codes.
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
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.
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.
Glass Rails
Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass...
Deck Railing Codes
Learn about the building codes that regulate guardrails. How high do rails need to be? What are the rail infill requirements?
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