How to Install Porch Stair Stringers

Installing porch stair stringers is the first step to creating a beautiful stairway for your porch. Resting porch stair stringers on poured concrete can create problems over time due to thawing and freezing. Install porch stair stringers that are connected to a Newell post and have handrails for safety and durability.

Instructions

1. Install upper Newel posts to the porch where the finished steps will be located.

2. Attach lower Newel posts to two pieces of notched pressure treated 4x4s. The 4x4s should be cut to a length of 4½ feet in order to set them in post holes a little over four feet deep below the frost line.

3. Make an H frame by attaching a cross piece at the joint where the Newel posts and 4x4s are joined. The H frame should be the same width as you want your finished stairway to be.

4. Fit each post end with an inexpensive anchor used to help anchor deck posts to concrete footings.

5. Dig two holes the appropriate distance from the edge of the porch. The post hole should be at least 4 feet deep. This puts the posts well below the frost line.

6. Attach the outer stringers to two 2x4 inch cleats installed at either end of the upper Newel posts at the edge of the porch.

7. Pour concrete into each hole and set your H frame Newel posts into place. Secure to the outside stringers at the bottom. Check to make sure the bottom H frame is level. Install two additional stringers equally spaced between the outer stringers.

Tips & Warnings

• The concrete can be poured as the final step after the stingers and H frame Newel posts are in place. Either way works just as well.