I've slowly but steadily been working on finishing the zipline I put in and now need to consider how I'm going to build the steps going up to the launch platform. Even though it starts on a hill, the platform/deck is about 9' high. Shockingly, this project is over budget. So, I'm not wanting to go really fancy on the steps, but I want them solid and safe.
I am going to have rails on both sides of the steps and there will be rails around the sides of the launch platform. I thought about buying a couple of treated 2X12's and cutting in the zigzag treads for the steps. However, even if I keep the steps to only 30" wide (will that be wide enough?), do I need a 3rd stringer down the middle? I'm going to have two 4X4 posts at the start, one on each side of the steps, and another couple of 4X4 treated posts about half way up, not only holding the steps, but also providing a solid mount for the side rails. I was going to use 2X10's for the stair treads.
Now when I add up my lumber and fastener list, these darn steps are going to be rather expensive. Is there a better/alternative way to make these steps? Also, what is the steepest angle I can make them without them feeling like they are too steep? I'm kind of scratching my head on the steps but I'll be needing to build them either this coming weekend or next week, so I need to figure out what I want to do. Thoughts? Ideas?
I am going to have rails on both sides of the steps and there will be rails around the sides of the launch platform. I thought about buying a couple of treated 2X12's and cutting in the zigzag treads for the steps. However, even if I keep the steps to only 30" wide (will that be wide enough?), do I need a 3rd stringer down the middle? I'm going to have two 4X4 posts at the start, one on each side of the steps, and another couple of 4X4 treated posts about half way up, not only holding the steps, but also providing a solid mount for the side rails. I was going to use 2X10's for the stair treads.
Now when I add up my lumber and fastener list, these darn steps are going to be rather expensive. Is there a better/alternative way to make these steps? Also, what is the steepest angle I can make them without them feeling like they are too steep? I'm kind of scratching my head on the steps but I'll be needing to build them either this coming weekend or next week, so I need to figure out what I want to do. Thoughts? Ideas?