Building a Deck - Steps From Door

by Randy

I am building a deck.

Is there a requirement as to how far under threshold of the patio door it needs to be before you have to put another step or ramp to the deck surface.

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Nov 25, 2011
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Deck elevations
by: Hope Ranch Construction

Yes you need min 2" from bottom of threshold to top of finished deck surface. If you do not do this water will splash up and possibly enter house

Apr 25, 2010
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Stairs
by: Craig

You can have up to a 7 1/2" step down to your deck or a landing. You cannot step straight down onto stairs.

Feb 17, 2010
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Avoiding trip factors
by: TheStairGuide

It depends on your state.

I am from Iowa, and if you don't go with a flush deck then the minimum requirement would be the minimum height of a stair.

For example, in Iowa the minimum rise for an outdoor staircase is 4" so your deck would have to be a minimum of 4" to a maximum height of 7-3/4" if you didn't go flush.

Although there is the other factor of having steps to your deck.

Aug 06, 2009
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It All Depends
by: Anonymous

If you run flush with the threshold you will prevent a trip hazard. However, if you live in a region that has a lot of rain you may get splash back underneath the exterior door.

I tend to leave a minimum of one inch under the threshold, remove siding and flash and caulk generously.

If you desire to have a step, I suggest that you keep in mind the people that will be using the deck.

If elderly people will be using the steps, try to stay with no more than a six inch rise per step. Hand rails should be installed also.

Nov 18, 2008
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Gap From Threshold to Deck
by: Editor - Rich Bergman

In addition I would tell you from my experience that you consider adding steps if the gap between the threshold and the deck is greater than 8".

And once you start adding steps or stairs teh building code has a number of stipulations concerning rise and run and when stair rails are required. But that is a whole other discussion. Hope this helps also.

Nov 18, 2008
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Threshold Drop for Decks
by: barnettdeck.com

Some communities require 3/4 of an inch as a minimum drop below the threshold. But only do it if required.

You can run the decking directly under the threshold. Flash and caulk the framing first.
Caulk under the threshold before the ledger is up just in case the builder did not so.

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