How to Make Outdoor Stairs Out of Solid Wood

Coat each of the beams to be used with weatherproof sealant, applying the sealant with even, smooth strokes. Let the sealant dry for two hours, then apply an additional coat using the same process. Apply four coats at the minimum to protect these beams from rot.

Arrange the beams as they will eventually be installed, laying out the bottom layer as the largest layer, and then a smaller layer above that, and continuing until it reaches the upper surface. Make the number of beams in the bottom layer equal to the number of steps, with each layer being one beam shorter. Double up the beams on each level if necessary so that the steps are about 10 inches in depth from front to back by 6 inches high. Adjust these dimensions to fit your project and materials. Make a note of the number of beams in each row, or take a picture if necessary.

Remove all the beams except the bottom row. Separate these beams by a few inches and drill matching holes into the surfaces that touch each other, spacing the holes every 2 feet or so. Set a peg into one of these holes and then press the beams together to check the fit. Separate the beams again and apply wood glue to each end of each peg. Reposition the first row of beams. Apply caulking between the beams in all the cracks.

Place the second row of beams above the first, and repeat the previous procedure to attach the second row of beams to each other with glued pegs. Lift the second row off the first and drill holes between the first and second rows in the same manner, attaching them with pegs. Apply caulking to the area between the rows prior to attaching them together. Repeat this process to attach the rest of the rows together.

Squirt additional caulking into the stairs where there are gaps or spaces.