Outdoor deck stair stringers face weathering, ground moisture, and rigorous dynamic foot traffic. Follow this proven carpenter workflow.
Tools Required
- 2×12 Pressure-Treated Lumber (UC4A Ground Contact rated)
- Steel framing square (16×24 inches)
- Brass stair gauges (square nuts)
- Circular saw with sharp framing blade
- Hand pull-saw or jigsaw for corner finishing
- Chalk line and speed square
Why You Must Never Overcut Notches
When cutting the tread and riser notches with a circular saw, stop the blade precisely at the intersection of the layout lines. Never let the round blade penetrate past the corner into the throat of the board. Overcutting creates a stress concentration point that weakens the stringer by up to 40%. Finish every inner corner by hand.