{"id":6851,"date":"2023-05-30T01:59:06","date_gmt":"2023-05-30T01:59:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/perfectoutdoorspaces.com\/?p=6851"},"modified":"2023-06-10T03:19:04","modified_gmt":"2023-06-10T03:19:04","slug":"do-i-need-stairs-on-my-deck-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/whatblueprint.com\/do-i-need-stairs-on-my-deck-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Do I Need Stairs On My Deck?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Numerous variables should be considered when starting a DIY project, like building a deck. What is the deck’s purpose, what materials will you use, how high will the deck be, where will you position the deck and many similar questions<\/strong>. However, one often overlooked question is, do I need stairs on my deck?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether your deck needs stairs is related to its height above the ground. Decks require stairs when higher than 7 \u00be in. above the ground. If your deck is lower than 7 \u00be in., it usually does not require stairs; however, some states have different local regulations and building codes.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although the necessity of stairs depends drastically on the height and design of your deck, there are situations where stairs are a beneficial edition. Below we\u2019ll investigate some of the pros and cons of adding stairs to decks, situations you\u2019ll need them,<\/strong> and what are some of the legalities surrounding deck stair construction.<\/p>\n\n\n

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<\/a>Why You Need Stairs On Your Deck<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Stairs are important for most decks as entry and exit point<\/strong>s. Although a deck might only be a foot or two above the ground and easy for an energetic individual to climb on and off from, others may not be able to navigate the drop\/rise safely.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Decks are<\/strong> often hazardous<\/strong>, with people tripping\/falling over them. So, to reduce the likelihood of these incidents, a stairway is a useful entry\/exit point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The common practice is that if<\/strong> a deck is higher than 7 \u00be inches<\/strong>, you’ll need to add stairs to reduce the risk of injury and create an accessible deck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/a>What Are The Legal Stipulations Concerning Stairs On A Deck?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Most states have specific building codes relating to deck building. What is important is that you peruse<\/strong> your state\u2019s laws and regulations <\/strong>before planning a deck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you don\u2019t know where to go to find these regulations, speak to your local hardware shop<\/strong>, or contact a deck building company<\/strong> and badger them (in the most polite way possible) for some info. They should be willing to assist you (provided you’re polite).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alternatively,<\/strong> the International Code Council’s<\/a> website provides access to the International Building Code and the International Residential Code<\/strong>, pertinent legislation for deck building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some legalities,<\/strong> according to the International Residential Code (particularly Section R311<\/strong>), concerning steps include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n