Wooden landscape timber stairs always look so impressive. They seem like something only masters can build. Well, truth be told, it’s the kind of woodworking project that even novices can accomplish. If you’re interested in setting up your own landscape timber stairs, just follow this guide.
Materials
• Measuring tape or tool
• Poles or stakes
• Hand tamper
• Shovel
• String level
• Sledgehammer
• Rebars
• 8-inch timbers (treated timbers)
• Drill, drill bits, and extension
Reminder
Protect yourself by wearing gloves and an eye protector. Failing to do so may lead to serious injuries.
How It’s Done
1. Take your stakes or poles, string level, sledgehammer, shovel, and hand tamper. Drive the poles or stakes at the base of the slope or the landscape where you plan to make the first wooden landscape timber stairs or step. It should be higher than the top slope or landscape. Use the other stakes and string level to plan your site.
2. Excavate the site and cut the levels of the steps carefully. Remove large rocks and level your thread and riser with the help of a hand tamper. An 8-inch timber step that lies over another by 4 inches is good.
3. Place your first timber at the base and pound it using the sledgehammer. Continue placing the other timbers overlapping each other. Check the levels for proper alignment (you wouldn’t want any accidents to happen in the future). If you’re sure that the levels are correct, pound and secure them in place.
4. Drill vertical holes in the front edge corners of each timber, reaching well below the next timber. Get your rebars and pound them on the holes using the sledgehammer to secure everything together.
5. Drill horizontal holes in each timber until the timber behind it. Secure it with the rebars.
Choose the right timber for the job. Also, treat the timber to protect it from wear and termites. While this may seem difficult, it’s actually as easy as sanding then wiping until there’s little dust left—then afterwards, putting on your preferred wood stain.
This will make it easier to put a wood finish or paint if you want. Choose a wood finish or paint that doesn’t just give you a nice look, but offers sufficient protection as well.
Note, however, that treating wood doesn’t have to be done prior to building your stairs. Others actually do it as the last step in this woodworking project.
Remember that wood treatment can be harmful to your health. Read the labels and follow the instructions carefully to avoid any accidents. Don’t hesitate to ask a professional if you aren’t sure whether you’re using the right materials.
Now you know how to make and build a wooden landscape timber stairs step by step. You can always adjust the dimensions of the treads and risers. But, always be mindful of the height of the risers—these should be neither too high nor to low, same as the tread. You don’t want just half of your feet on the steps, don’t you?
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