How to Build Deck Riser Steps

Measure the “total rise” of the stairs from the ground to the top of the finished floor. Divide the total rise by the riser height you will use to find the number of treads or steps. The International Building Code sets the maximum riser height at 7 3/4 inches, but check to see if your local building code differs. For people who have difficulty navigating stairs, a lower riser height of 6 inches may be more suitable.

Divide the number of steps you calculated by the total rise. This will tell you the actual riser height you will use. Make sure to check the riser height against code requirements.

Mark your calculations on your stair stringers--the long diagonal pieces that attach to either side of the stair treads. Stair stringers should be made of pressure-treated 2-by-12-inch boards and cut with a hand saw for a clean look. Attach the stair stringers to the top of the deck. Install the risers and treads to the stringers. Screw a 2-by 4-inch board beneath the stringers as a ledge for the stringers to rest on, or install a concrete footing pad. Install the treads with metal staircase angles for proper weight support, and then install the risers.

Add hand railings unless the stairs consist of only one or two steps. The railing posts are set on the inside or the outside of the stringers and the last post sits on the lowest tread. Make sure the railings are continuous from the top of the stairs to the bottom.