At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we understand that adding a wood deck with stairs to your home isn’t just about creating an outdoor space—it’s about enhancing your lifestyle. Whether you’re imagining a cozy space to sip coffee in the morning or a wide platform to host family gatherings, adding stairs to your deck brings both convenience and design flexibility. In this post, we’ll walk you through key considerations and answer some of the most common questions we receive from homeowners in the Birmingham area.
How much does a deck cost with stairs?
The cost of a wood deck with stairs varies significantly depending on size, materials, labor, and design features. On average, you can expect to pay between $35 and $60 per square foot for a professionally built deck. When stairs are included—especially multiple levels or long staircases—the price increases. Stairs can add $15 to $40 per square foot to the overall cost, depending on the complexity of the design and materials used. For example, pressure-treated lumber stairs are more affordable, while hardwoods like ipe or composite stair systems cost more. In Birmingham, a modest single-level wood deck with stairs typically ranges from $6,000 to $12,000 or more, depending on these variables.
Can you buy ready made steps?
Yes, ready-made steps—or prefabricated stair kits—are available at many home improvement stores and through custom builders. These can be a convenient option for smaller projects or for DIY-savvy homeowners. However, it’s important to ensure they meet local building codes and are properly anchored for safety. In our experience, while prefab steps can be useful, custom-built stairs tend to offer better durability, integration with the deck design, and long-term performance. If you’re investing in a full wood deck with stairs, we typically recommend custom construction to ensure a seamless fit and higher quality outcome.
Should a deck have stairs?
Whether or not your deck should have stairs depends on its height, location, and how you intend to use the space. For ground-level or slightly elevated decks, stairs might not be necessary. However, if your deck is elevated—even by a few feet—stairs can drastically improve accessibility. Stairs also add flexibility, allowing you to access your yard directly without having to walk through the house. In Birmingham’s hilly terrain, many homes benefit from multi-level decks with well-planned staircases. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we often recommend stairs as a functional and aesthetic enhancement, especially for entertaining or improving traffic flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
How much should a 20×20 deck cost?
A 20×20 deck (400 square feet) is a popular size that offers ample space for seating, dining, and relaxing. The cost of such a deck will vary based on materials and features. For a basic pressure-treated wood deck, expect to pay around $14,000 to $18,000. Add-ons like railings, built-in seating, or custom stairs can increase the total cost to $20,000 or more. Composite materials may cost even more—closer to $25,000 to $30,000—but offer reduced maintenance over time. If your 20×20 deck includes stairs, the additional expense will depend on their size and structure, but could range from $1,500 to $5,000+. We always provide itemized quotes so our Birmingham-area clients know exactly what to expect before construction begins.
What is the largest deck without a permit?
Permit requirements vary depending on your municipality and the scope of the project. In Birmingham, Jefferson County, and many surrounding areas, most decks—especially those attached to a home or elevated above 30 inches—require a permit. Some small freestanding decks that are under 200 square feet and less than 30 inches above grade may not require a permit, but it’s always best to check with your local building department. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we handle all necessary permitting for our projects to make the process stress-free. Building without a permit where one is required can result in fines, delays, or even mandated removal of the structure.
A well-built wood deck with stairs is more than just an outdoor feature—it’s an investment in your home’s value and your family’s enjoyment. From understanding costs to choosing the right stair layout, there are many decisions to make. That’s why working with an experienced and trustworthy team makes all the difference. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we take pride in designing and constructing custom decks that complement your home’s architecture and suit your lifestyle.
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a full service general construction firm and remodeling contractor operating in the Birmingham metro and Jefferson and Shelby County areas and surrounding communities, including Birmingham, Helena, Chelsea, Mountain Brook, Hoover, Homewood, Montevallo, Alabaster, Vestavia Hills, and Pelham, with over 30 years of servicing our valued clients. Offering full service suite of general remodeling, design and build services. Our specialties include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exterior renovations, interior renovations, painting, and more!
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