How To Build Cascading Deck Stairs: Three Main Approaches Of Building Cascading Deck Stairs

A common type of staircase that curves around the corner of a small deck is one with cascading steps. This method of deck design and stair construction is beautiful and really useful. Tall cascading steps, though, can start to seem odd and provide a tripping risk. You might wish to use a regular staircase if the drop takes more than five steps. Keep in mind that wrap-around or cascading stairs are intended to widen and get bigger as they descend. Make sure you carefully consider all the elements before developing because every circumstance is somewhat different. Does the scenario created by the angles allow for these stairs? The use of numerous small stair stringers spaced at 16" on center is required for cascading staircases. Typically, blocking is required to support the decking at slanted corners. At grade, check to see if the ground is level along the whole base of the stairs. You might be able to construct two boxes or platforms to make a stair system to attach to the side of your deck if it is one or two steps from the ground.

Three Main Approaches Of Building Cascading Or Wrap Around Deck Stairs

There are three primary approaches when it comes to building cascading deck stairs and ensuring your box frame is secure. These approaches are mentioned below:

Non-Frost Resistant Slab Connected To Boxes

To anchor the box frame to the slab and stabilize it in relation to the deck, the first choice is to use a non-frost-resistant slab with a post inserted and connected to the lowest box frame such that the post extends downward into the earth. The second alternative is to utilize a concrete-filled hole. This strategy does have some drawbacks, though. Remember that the slab and the fill behind it will only go down to a maximum depth of twelve inches (four inches of concrete and eight inches of gravel), which is well within the frost zone. As a result, the soil beneath the gravel fill will expand if it holds onto any moisture. This will cause the slab to be slightly raised hydraulically. In addition, if the post is anchored into the ground at a depth below freezing, it may be holding up quite well. There will be opposing forces acting on you, and finally something will give. In this case, removing the post and supporting the box stairs on the slab is your best alternative.

Frost Resistant Slab Connected To Boxes

Utilizing a slab that is frost resistant is the second choice. With this choice, the box can be secured without the requirement for posts to be installed into a footing. On the slab of concrete will be placed the first box. Because the gravel will not absorb water, it will not expand during a frost, therefore this won't be a problem. If you must attach the upper box stair to the deck, this is your best choice. The steps must be motionless with respect to the slab and the deck for long-term durability.

Non-Frost Resistant Slab Not Connected To Posts

Utilizing a slab without posts that is not frost resistant is the third and simplest solution. The cascading box stair frames should just lay on the slab. If you want to prevent the lower frame from deteriorating over time, you can fasten it to the concrete and raise it slightly with washers. Never join the deck to the top box stair. To account for any tiny annual vertical movement, set it back from the fascia by roughly 1/4".