Take the total height and divide it by the height of the riser. See full list on wikihow. com Make a hillside in your yard more manageable by constructing gradual stairs from wood and gravel. · watch this video to see how to build exterior steps using precut pressure treated stringers , which make the job much easier. A run is the total length of the steps from the edge of the porch to where the steps end. Fasten treads or grips to the steps using deck screws. Dont forget to consider the blocking or apron at the bottom of the stairs to support the stairs. Screw the backings to the stringers, then screw on the steps themselves. Calculate the run of the steps ( how long they will be). Familiarize yourself with the components of a set of steps. Attach the stringers to the porch with hangers and screws. You will attach a riser, a 1 x 8-inch (2. 5 x 20. 3 cm) board, resembling a toe board, to the back or upright section of the step. Proudly made in america · expert answers · for indoor & outdoor uses · a+ bbb-rating Measure from the bottom of the level to the ground using a 4-foot (1. 2 m) level set on the top of the porch. The treads are 2 x 6-inch (5. 1 x 15. 2 cm) treated wood boards that lay parallel to each other to form a single step that is approximately 10. 5 inches (26. 7 cm) wide. Tame a slope in your yard or add interest to a garden pathway with this wood and gravel staircase. As an example, a height of 35 inches (88. 9 cm) divided by a 7-inch (17. 8 cm) riser will result in 5 equal steps. Also, check local codes for specifications regarding handrail requirements and permitting. It is not complicated to build but does take a little elbow grease. Plan each step to be 10. 5 inches (26. 7 cm) deep and 8 in (20. 3 cm) high. The rise is the height of porch, or the steps , that you will need. Remember that the riser height averages between 6 and 8 inches (15. 2 to 20. 3 cm) high. Stringers are usually 2 x 12-inch (5. 1 x 30. 5 cm) treated wood boards to which the tread and riser are attached. Measure and calculate the length and height your steps need to travel. Most steps are 6 to 8 inches (15. 2 to 20. 3 cm) in height. You can buy pre-cut stringers at most lumber or home improvement stores. The video provides a step-by-step guide on how to calculate steps, prepare the area for wooden steps , and create a welcoming entrance. Once carpenters were judged by how skilled they were by the projects they had worked on, the tools in their tool boxes and by their ability to build steps. This tells you the number of steps you will need. Factory-direct spiral staircases at the lowest prices. This diy exterior steps project is all about how to build stairs from start to finish. Despite the skill level, building porch steps is still within the capabilities of the average do-it-yourselfer. Unlimited color & design opts, call our best-in-class consultants for a 1 of-a-kind stair. · in this guide, this old house landscape contractor roger cook shows you how to build steps with landscape timbers. Cut your steps , backing, and stringers (sides) according to your measurements using a circular saw. This diy exterior steps project demonstrates the process of building stairs from start to finish. · how to build exterior wooden steps ?