To lay out a set of stair stringers from scratch requires a little math, but not much. Equally important is some quiet time to run the numbers and at the same time to think about the construction ...

Deck stairs look simple until you cut your first stringer wrong. I have done that, and one bad cut can waste a whole board. Building deck stairs is one of the most useful DIY projects you can take on.

For ambitious DIYers, deck stairs are a natural next project after building a stylish floating wood deck. Or perhaps your old stairs have worn out from years of exposure to the sun, moisture, and use.