Build deck steps for easy access

Learn how to build your own deck steps for easy access

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STEP 1: Set out the base step

Cut the bearers and joists using a circular saw or sliding compound mitre saw. Use a builder’s square to set out a 4800mm x 530mm rectangle for the base step bearers and set string lines so they run straight.

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The elevated split timber decks attached to this house were separated by a 480mm height difference, a distance too great for even the longest legs to step over comfortably. The solution was to divide the height by three to install two steps with three risers of equal 160mm increments.

The steps run 4800mm long, providing access along the entire platform plus informal seating.

The bearers and joists are of 70 x 45mm treated pine with the rear base bearer doubled for extra support. The timber sizes worked well with the height of the steps, with the bearer and joist totalling 140mm, then the 20mm decking timber creating the riser height of 160mm. The width of the treads was set at 275mm to allow four decking boards with 3mm gaps between them.

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