I’ve been wanting for some time now to try using Douglas Fir 2x12s as stair treads on porches. It seems like this would be a nice look if they were stained to match the t&g fir floor. Of course, the problems that I can forsee are cupping, splitting and water damage. The treads would be covered by a roof in this case, the same as the flooring and that stuff, if well maintained, can last a good while. I would probably use stainless trim head screws to fasten them.
Has anyone used stained D Fir 2x stock for treads or any other exterior application? How did it hold up? What type of stain and/or water seal did you use? What type of fasteners did you use and were there any problems with wood movement?
Thanks.
Peter
Replies
Peter,
I've built a number of exterior stairs with 2x12 treads.
On my own house, I had a "temporary" run of steps that I made with common fir framing lumber. I never even bothered to treat the lumber in any fashion whatsoever -- just left it bare. About three years later, I finally got around to building the finished product. Although gray from weathering, the treads were still in amazingly good condition.
Usually, however, I'll paint the components (instead of leaving them bare, of course!). My experience has been that some decent fir framing lumber performs better than pressure treated hemlock. I've had quite a few negative experiences with the PT stuff cupping.
I've also considered using TK cedar 2x12. My only hesitation has been that cedar is a rather soft wood and I'm concerned that the nosing might get banged up rather easily.
If money were no object, I'd use VG fir on the treads.
I think your idea of finishing the treads the same as the finish flooring is a good one -- it would look great! Incidentally, I've had pretty good luck using oil finishes on covered T&G porches. It just takes seasonal "refreshing", but it's very quick and easy to do.
As far as fastening, I've just used regular deck screws and they've worked fine so far.
Edited 3/25/2007 6:21 pm ET by Ragnar17
Have built-replaced many ext. stairs using v.g. fir, but all were painted. The stepping only lasts as long as the stairs were maintained. Seems like if stairs are covered and were built to self drain, and whatever stain or poly were maintained, the fir might do well. Before pressure treated wood ext stairs - decks were built in such a way that moisture could naturally drain away and the wood could dry. (no notching)
Risers?
When cutting stringers for stepping, remenber to cut a 3/16-1/4" slope from back to front of each step for positive drainaige. Your stairs will last twice as long ( thats what they always told me, ( at least to get the point across). Also don't countersink the screws - nails below surface unless youv'e got some way to positivly fiill the holes , water will collect and will rot the wood.
EXposed end grain of stringer cut outs?, could treat first with coppernate? or other wood preservative. Stair angles under?