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What treads for backyard steps?

Hi Bunnings community! I’m excited to join the group. I’ve done a few DIY projects over the last couple of years but never hit a wall like this before, so I’m reaching out for some advice.

We’ve just built our new house and I’m tackling the landscaping myself. Our alfresco is raised about 600mm, and I need to build steps down to the backyard. I’m considering using the Peak 3-tread stringer, but I’m stuck on what material to use for the treads.

Initially, I was thinking of using 240mm x 3m treated pine, cutting it into three pieces and painting it, but I recently saw a post mentioning Ecodeck as an option.

Can anyone advise on the best approach? We’re trying to keep costs down, but I also want something durable.

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance.

Mits.

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Comments

JacobZ

Hi @Mits,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

I actually think the idea you've proposed is likely the best one to go with. It is sturdy and cost-effective and being H3-treated pine, it will be weather-resistant and durable. Adding a coat of external paint with some sand added for grit will increase their grip and extend their lifetime.

As I've said, I think your selection is great, but I'll provide some alternatives for you to peruse.

240 x 45mm 1.2m Stair Tread H3 Treated Pine Domestic Use - H3 pine step treads that are grooved to add grip. Unless you are happy with the natural look, would likely require paint.
240 x 42mm 0.9m Merbau Domestic Use Stair Tread - Hardwood step treads that are grooved to add grip. Can be oiled to give a beautiful natural timber look.
Everhard 250 x 50 x 920mm Concrete Step Tread - Concrete, so extremely durable. Will not require coating of any kind.

There are also often 250x50 rough-sawn hardwood step treads in stores, but they are not listed on our website as suppliers are regional and stock flow can be inconsistent. If you wanted to explore this option, you could speak to the team at your local store's Trade Desk to see what can be done.

I can't say Ekodeck would be an option with your stringers. Ekodeck can be used when stepped decks are used, but this requires a considerable amount of framing. This is because the Ekodeck is not thick enough to support the weight of a person without framing beneath it. Using two stringers, Ekodeck would bow in the middle considerably.

Let me know what you think and if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.