Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Outdoor Stairs

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gagar
09-25-04, 08:01 PM
Can anyone suggest a software program for calculating stairs? I want to modify existing stairs and add new ones to my home which is on sloping terrain. (The stairs will be wood or a composite.) I also want to try for 4" rise with 32" tread to accomodate a walker. (Not sure if this is going to be feasible.) I have done this sort of thing before with paper and pencil, but it was very time consuming and I suspect I may have to try several different scenarios to fit the present site. I do plan to contract the work to be done, but wish to explore all my options first.
Thanks.
Gagar

lefty
09-26-04, 08:29 PM
Steps with a 4" rise and 32" treads will probably never catch up with the slope of the ground. Run the steps parallel with the wall of the house and put in switchbacks, with 4' landings.

Ramps work well with wheelchairs, but when my Dad was confined to a walker, he told me the toughest thing in the world to negotiate was a ramp.

"Software"?? You could try a local lumberyard that has a CAD program for decks, bldgs., trusses, etc., but pencil and paper will work just as well. 4" rise per step and each tread being 32" wide -- the only other thing you have to figure out is the amount of RUN you need to accomplish that.