How do you keep stringers off the ground?
How to Keep Stringers Off the Ground: Protecting Your Staircase Investment
Keeping stringers off the ground is essential to prevent rot, insect damage, and premature deterioration, particularly for exterior staircases. While several methods exist to achieve this, the chosen solution will depend on the specific design, materials, and environmental conditions of your staircase.
Brief Summary
The most common methods to elevate stringers include using concrete piers or footings, pressure-treated wood blocks, metal brackets, or adjustable post bases. Each method offers unique advantages and considerations, and the selection should be based on the specific requirements of your staircase.
Expanded Answer
Methods to Keep Stringers Off the Ground
- Concrete Piers or Footings: This method involves pouring concrete piers or footings below the frost line to provide a stable and durable support for the stringers. It’s a popular choice for large or heavy staircases, offering excellent resistance to rot and ground movement.
- Pros: Durable, long-lasting, suitable for heavy loads
- Cons: Requires excavation and concrete work, may not be suitable for all soil types
- Pressure-Treated Wood Blocks: Another common approach is to use pressure-treated wood blocks as a base for the stringers. The blocks should be adequately sized and treated to withstand ground contact and moisture.
- Pros: Cost-effective, relatively easy to install
- Cons: May require periodic replacement due to rot or insect damage
- Metal Brackets: Metal brackets can be attached to the stringers and anchored to a concrete foundation or posts. This method is suitable for various staircase designs and materials, providing a sturdy and adjustable support.
- Pros: Versatile, adjustable, resistant to rot and insects
- Cons: May require professional installation, can be more expensive than other methods
- Adjustable Post Bases: Adjustable post bases are metal connectors that attach to the stringers and rest on concrete piers or footings. They offer adjustability for uneven ground and provide a secure connection between the stringers and the foundation.
- Pros: Adjustable, easy to install, suitable for various ground conditions
- Cons: Can be more expensive than other methods
Building Codes and Regulations
Local building codes and regulations may dictate specific requirements for stringer support and clearance from the ground. It’s essential to consult these codes before constructing or modifying a staircase to ensure compliance and safety.
Remodeling Trends
The growing emphasis on outdoor living spaces has led to increased demand for durable and aesthetically pleasing staircases. This trend has spurred innovation in stringer support methods, with a focus on materials and designs that resist moisture, rot, and insect damage while complementing the overall aesthetic of the space.
Conclusion
Keeping stringers off the ground is crucial to protect your staircase investment and ensure its longevity. By choosing the appropriate method based on the specific design, materials, and environmental conditions, you can safeguard your staircase against rot, insect damage, and premature deterioration. Consult local building codes and a qualified professional for further guidance and recommendations.