The Inspection
For this project in Alexandria, VA, our team began by performing a complete demolition and safe disposal of the existing, aging staircase and its associated substructure. Proper preparation is crucial for outdoor safety, so we cleared the area entirely to establish a fresh, highly secure foundation for the new build, ensuring all new framing elements would rest on solid ground.
The Process
To build a safe and long-lasting staircase, we anchored new post base brackets into high-strength concrete footings to establish a rock-solid foundation. We then constructed the heavy-duty framing using 2'' x 12'' pressure-treated pine stringers spaced 12 inches on center with galvanized L-shaped hangers for maximum structural stability. For a low-maintenance, high-end finish, we surfaced the steps with premium Trex Transcend® 1'' x 6'' treads and matching 1'' x 8'' risers in the rich Jasper color. Finally, we installed a custom pressure-treated wood railing system with wood pickets and capped it with a matching Trex Transcend® Jasper top rail for a clean, cohesive aesthetic.
The Result
The completed staircase provides this Alexandria home with a sturdy, beautifully finished access point that seamlessly blends the natural look of exposed wood stringers with the high-performance longevity of Trex Transcend composite materials. Built with reinforced framing and secure footings, these stairs are engineered to handle heavy foot traffic and withstand the elements for years.
