| I don't even know
where to begin, with deck stairs. There are so many materials available
today and more designs than you can imagine. We have man-made materials
and natural products that make today's decks look spectacular.
Redwood - Redwood has been used for years, but is expensive. It's soft
and scratches easily, but can be sanded, stained and retreated, most of
the time. The biggest problem I have using Redwood for deck stairs is
that most homeowners don't realize how soft it actually is.
Man-Made Materials - Some of these products look great, but when they
say no maintenance, they're not referring to materials that become
damaged and will need to be replaced. One time I watched someone move a
refrigerator down a set of stairs, made out of Trex and when it was
over, the entire stairway had been scratched.
Most of the time your deck stairs will be built with the same decking
materials used to build the deck. This method of construction usually
creates a nice flow from the yard, to the deck.
What About Pressure-Treated Wood?
Depending upon where you live, pressure-treated wood could be a
lifesaver, but if it isn't installed correctly, it won't last long.
Let's face it, pressure-treated wood isn't attractive or should I say
that I don't find attractive and would never use it for my deck stairs.
I believe pressure-treated materials provide homeowners with a false
illusion. Even contractors, architects and engineers get caught up in
the hype. If these materials are sitting in dirt or used improperly,
they will get ruined.
Back To>
How To Build Stairs
Next>Porch Stairs
|
