Hello, Maybe someone has some input on this. The 2x12 stair treads on the outside stair of my building are cupped and hold water. The bad part is the stairs face Northeast and never really get any sun. The building was built in 2015 and I have treated the stairs several times. My wife wants to drill some holes to allow for the water to weep. I don't think this is a good idea since it will open up the wood core and speed up rot. In hindsight maybe the treads should have been 2 2x6 instead of 2 x12. Any input would be appreciated.
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Outside Stair ?
- Thread starter dldude
- Start date
2-2x6's would definitely help! She's correct in the hole drilling, but you can Drill several small holes and then re seal including inside the holes with A q-tip and place some sand on the sealer for grit to extend the life of the existing treads to save a few bucks!!! I wouldn't drill too small or too big of holes either. 3/8 th's size holes might be what the Dr. ordered. Steps need to be people friendly young and old! IMO!
LtF
LtF
Skyman
Well-known member
Maybe flip 'em over?
mike93lx
ALLIANCE MEMBER
Definitely do not drill drainage holes.
I'd remove the 2x12's, tape the stringers with joist tape and install dual 2x6. Most say install with the end grain frowning so that they cup with the center *******, but that's debated as much as what brand of truck is best, even though it is objectively Ford.
I'd remove the 2x12's, tape the stringers with joist tape and install dual 2x6. Most say install with the end grain frowning so that they cup with the center *******, but that's debated as much as what brand of truck is best, even though it is objectively Ford.
Zeke
Well-known member
Never used 2 x 12's. I replace with Trex.
billconner
Well-known member
Remove, rip in half, reinstall up side down, with taped stringers as recommended above.
billconner
Well-known member
Trex is a nice idea but I suspect you'd have to add a few stringers - 9" on center is what Trex site says.
Wondered if with the right jig, you could cut slots with maybe 2 blades on a circular saw - wide enough kerf so it doesn't clog up with dirt quickly. Lot of fuss and time, very low material cost.
Wondered if with the right jig, you could cut slots with maybe 2 blades on a circular saw - wide enough kerf so it doesn't clog up with dirt quickly. Lot of fuss and time, very low material cost.
Zeke
Well-known member
Azek comes in full 1.5 x 5.5. No 9" centers.
RaisedByWolves
Well-known member
Yup, someone didn’t pay attention to the grain when they installed them.Maybe flip 'em over?
RaisedByWolves
Well-known member
Anyone who says to install with the grain “smiling” probably eats hot dogs with ketchup and drives a ridgeline.Definitely do not drill drainage holes.
I'd remove the 2x12's, tape the stringers with joist tape and install dual 2x6. Most say install with the end grain frowning so that they cup with the center *******, but that's debated as much as what brand of truck is best, even though it is objectively Ford.
Hooked
Well-known member
I'd suggest drilling the holes then get some West Systems epoxy to seal the sides of the holes.