Deck Steps

     After getting the concrete work done it was time to tackle the steps.   The pencil marks represent lots of internet research, head-scratching, card board prototype and a half-dozen attempts before I got a stringer good enough to use for a pattern.

      It took a lot of cutting using the skill saw and a handsaw to finish the cuts.  Another problem was how to attach the step to the rim joist so it doesn’t all come tumbling down.

     I didn’t care too much for this bracket since it didn’t allow for wood-to-wood contact.  You’ll never guess why I chose it—it was the cheapest!  By drilling through the rim joist using holes in the bracket as a guide, I could then run a screw from the back side of the joist and hit the step stringer through the metal bracket.  So, there are three screws holding each stringer, not just the bracket.

     Keeping each step stringer at the same height, level, and square taxed me, but like anything else, develop a routine and just do it.       

       

     Now comes the really hard part (gulp)—buying the actual decking.  The dealer called and wanted to deliver in the middle of my fever bout.  I eventually took delivery and wrote a check.

     This is about half the pile.  Next step, install.  First, cut and try to lay the first piece square. That’s the “knowledge” part.  The wisdom part—HOW do you get it square?  I didn’t totally succeed in that quest, but it will have to do.

     And away we go! Jackie Gleason.

Getting close!

     Now the test of truth—will looking at or walking along the steps make you seasick with waves and breakers?

     We’ll get there some day.