Replies

1. 
   kbentley57 | Oct 11, 2022 01:59pm | #1

   I think you're overthinking it!

   Simple 3" nails in a good tight pattern will work fine. as will pretty much any screw that's between 2.5 and 3".

1. 
   derekr | Oct 11, 2022 02:02pm | #2

   Ok thanks I’ll just get #10 3 inch screws

   The stairs are already together so I need to use screws I don’t have room for a hammer

2. 
   DC_Contrarian_ | Oct 11, 2022 02:07pm | #3

   Use deck screws, not drywall screws. Drywall screws are brittle and snap off.

1. 
   derekr | Oct 11, 2022 02:14pm | #4

   Any deck screws or are some better than others, i was looking at spax

   I wish I would have noticed this knot before I put it all together, it can’t be seen on the other side though guess that’s why I didn’t notice it

   
1. 
   kbentley57 | Oct 11, 2022 02:21pm | #5

   Any pack of the 3" #10 construction screws will be fine. The spax are great, I'd used them or GRK whenever I get the chance.

3. 
   derekr | Oct 11, 2022 03:09pm | #6

   I forgot I put blocking under the stairs for my posts which means I wont be able to use a full 2x6, I will have to cut it down 1.5 inches to 4 inches, will that be enough or should I put it on the outside of the stairs for the full board?

   Outside of stairs I could do 5.5 inches, inside of stairs I’ll only be able to do 4 inches is that good enough

4. 
   kbentley57 | Oct 11, 2022 03:55pm | #7

   4" is plenty.

   I'm curious about the trex tread on top - is there a solid board underneath?

1. 
   derekr | Oct 11, 2022 04:26pm | #8

   I put that there to attach my post on top
   That’s why I can only do a 4 inch sister board instead of 5.5 inch

5. Expert Member
   BILL WICHERS | Oct 11, 2022 04:50pm | #9

   I would glue AND screw your brace here. I like PL line of polyurethane adhesives. The glue ends up doing most of the work this way, with the screws mostly just acting as clamps to hold things together while the glue cures.

   I agree with the others to use deck screws. I'd probably use structural screws if I wasn't also using glue.

   Bill

1. 
   derekr | Oct 11, 2022 04:57pm | #10

   I’m getting the strongest liquid nails they make is that good enough or I need a different brand