How to add steps to a deck?

Gman

I want to build a deck and add 5 steps ?

The stairs need to be 1.4 metres to the bottom of the yard because the house is on a slope.

Do I use the stringer method to build deck stairs?

Do I use rectangular subframes to build deck stairs?

How do I stop the soil from eroding below the stairs?

EricL

Hello @Gman

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's fabulous to have you join us, and thank you for sharing your question about building a deck with steps.

Your timing is just perfect. The Bunnings team has recently released a seven-part series on how to build a deck, beginning with how to plan out your deck.   

The series includes:

• How to set out a deck

• How to install stumps

• How to install bearers

• How to install joists

• How to lay decking

• How to add a step to your deck.

These guides should give you a very good understanding of what you need to do to plan your deck. Would it be possible for you to post a picture of where you plan to install the deck? Is 1.4m the height of the deck? The Wilmaplex Stringer brochure contains a table that lays out how long a stringer you'll need for certain deck heights. You don't need to build a rectangular subframe for the Wilmaplex Stringers. 

If you're worried about soil erosion when you build your slab base. I suggest looking at the current water flow of your slope. I recommend putting in either a french drain or using Everhard Easydrain to divert any water flowing towards the base of the stairs. You can also add hard-wearing grass such as buffalo turf to naturally hold the soil in place. Otherwise, you will have to add additional steps if the slope becomes too steep.

Here is a link to a discussion that's similar to your proposed project - Steps to decking - Help Please by @VinceB

Here is a link to the Wilmaplex Brochure: Wilmaplex Stringer Brochure.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric