If you have plans to build a deck that will have more than one level or will be more than about 15 inches above the ground, you'll need stairs.
Stairs can be one of the more challenging aspects of a deck-building project.
We can remember when, as young apprentice carpenters, the ''stair layout and construction'' part of our curriculum created both excitement and anxiety for our group of budding carpenters. When building stairs, you not only need to be a good craftsperson, but, in many cases, you need to have a solid background in both math and geometry, as well. However, as you will learn, not all stair-building projects need to be complicated. Before running off to your local lumberyard to buy stair material, you'll need to know a few ''stair'' terms to make a material list. You already know that the element that you set foot on is called a ''tread.'' ''Stringers'' support the treads.