If you’re hoping to create sturdy, maintenance-free stairs for your deck, the Regal 6‑step aluminum stair stringer is a go-to solution that brings durability and modern aesthetics together. At The Ultimate Deck Shop, we guide homeowners and pros alike through the ins and outs of selecting, sizing, anchoring, and finishing deck stairs—especially when code compliance and Canadian weather are part of the mix. Let’s walk through what you need to know to get Regal aluminum stairs right the first time, and how to avoid costly missteps during your DIY project.
Understanding 6-Step Aluminum Stringer Sizing
What “6-Step” Actually Means
- A 6-step stringer has 6 risers (verticals) and 6 treads (steps).
- The factory rise is usually in the 7 to 7.5 inch range per step, with typical tread depth 10 to 11 inches. Confirm with the product label or specs before purchase.
With aluminum stringers like those in the Regal QuickStep system, rise and run are fixed. You must choose the number of steps that best matches the total vertical rise (from the landing to deck surface), rather than cutting the stringer on site.
How to Measure Your Total Rise
- Set a level on your lower landing (ground, slab, or lower deck) and measure up to the top surface of the finished deck boards.
- Include all layers: joists, sleepers, and decking thickness.
- Convert your measurement to inches or millimeters. This is your total rise—the key number for choosing a stringer set.
If the measured rise matches the published total rise of a 6-step Regal aluminum stringer (within about 1/4 to 3/8 inch), you’re set. If not, consider adjusting the base height or consult our team for a different stringer size that fits your project.
Need help with detailed layout and code? Our layout, rise/run, and code tips for fast stair installs guide is an in-depth companion for visualizing your project and avoiding the common pitfalls of mismeasured heights.
Anchoring Methods: Top and Bottom Connections You Can Trust
Top Connection to Deck Framing
- Always reinforce the deck rim where stairs will attach—add blocking or double up the rim with 2x6 or larger material for a solid connection.
- Position stringers at 10 to 12 inches on center for best support, especially if you’ll use composite or aluminum treads.
- Mount with dedicated stair stringer brackets. For Regal QuickStep, use their proprietary top brackets or a code-rated connector. Fasten tightly with structural screws and make sure hardware is compatible with aluminum to avoid corrosion.
Bottom Connection (Ground or Pad)
- The base must be stable, frost-resistant, and tied to the stair stringer mechanically—not just resting on soil.
- For maximum durability, pour a 3.5-inch thick concrete pad that extends beyond both sides and the front of the stairs. Fasten a 2x treated plate or bracket to it with concrete anchors, and bolt the stringer base down.
- For less permanent installations, set heavy concrete patio slabs on a compacted granular base, then anchor as above.
Anchoring that’s done right minimizes movement and bouncing, and meets building code requirements. Properly anchored stairs also prevent surprise inspector callbacks or midproject headaches—especially if you’re documenting your process for DIY deck building or resale value.
Choosing the Right Treads for Regal 6‑Step Aluminum Stringers
Factory-Matched Aluminum Treads
Using system-matched aluminum stair treads gives you:
- Non-slip surfaces with built-in texture—ideal for Canadian freeze–thaw cycles
- Exact fit to the Regal QuickStep stringers (no modifications required)
- Clean, consistent visual lines that tie into modern railings
Regal QuickStep 4’ treads bolt directly onto the Regal stringer set. For most residential stairs, you can use them full width or trim to fit narrower staircases.
Composite or Wood Deck Boards as Treads
If you prefer your stairs to match your composite deck boards or pressure-treated wood look, you can:
- Use composite/PVC stair-rated boards, ensuring stringers are spaced (10 to 12 inches on center) to avoid flex
- Install two deck boards per tread (most boards are 5 1/2" wide, so two with a gap gives about 11"—right for code)
- Fasten treads with color-matched screws or hidden fasteners (if rated for stairs)
Wood treads must be at least 2x10 (or 2x12 on wide stairs), securely screwed into every stringer and spaced to shed water. For extended outdoor performance, pre-treat edges before installation.
Posts, Railings, and Safety: What You Need for a Safe, Code-Ready Staircase
Stair Post Details
- For clean stair lines, use Regal Ideas 36" Stair Post or Regal Railing Inline Stair Post designed to work with aluminum treads and stringers.
- Always reinforce aluminum treads under posts with QuickStep Mounting Plate Insert where needed—this spreads out railing forces so the stair system stays tight.
Railing and Code Considerations
- Handrails must be graspable, continuous, and run the full length of the stairs.
- Railing height in most Canadian codes is about 34–38 inches above the stair nosing.
- Openings between balusters or beneath rails should not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere—important to prevent code violations and improve safety for kids and pets.
- Regal’s railing kits match these specs if installed per instructions, but always verify with your local requirements.
Mounting rails or glass panels at the right angle is much easier with prefab stair posts and angle brackets, reducing both fitment headaches and call-backs down the road.
Regal 6‑Step Aluminum Stringer Build Sequence: Step-by-Step
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Measure and Confirm Your Rise/Run
Take time to measure precisely—riser heights should vary by no more than about 3/8 inch across the whole run. -
Build or Confirm the Landing
Pour or prep a concrete slab or set solid patio slabs on crushed stone, then anchor a treated plate or metal bracket for the stringer base. -
Reinforce the Deck Rim
Add blocking where stringers will mount, fastening with structural screws into joists for strong bearing. -
Position and Mount Top Fasteners
Use dedicated Regal stringer brackets to attach to the rim or blocking. If using an alternate system, match hardware to material type to prevent galvanic corrosion. -
Set, Level, and Secure Stringers
With top brackets temporarily clamped, adjust the stringer base height, then fasten both top and bottom locations firmly. -
Install Treads
Place factory treads (like Regal QuickStep) or composite/wood, securing at each stringer location with rated fasteners. -
Add Posts and Railing
Install mounting inserts under post locations, then bolt posts through all reinforcement holes. Attach rails—double-check that handrail height and spacing are code-legal. -
Final Inspection and Adjustments
Walk and bounce-test each tread, confirm posts do not wiggle, and make small shimming adjustments if needed before wrapping up.
Refer to our DIY deck building hub for checklists and more detailed framing steps—these resources help avoid rookie mistakes and ensure that your stairs seamlessly integrate with the rest of your deck and railing layout.
Product Options: Tailor Your Stair Solution
- For complete aluminum stairs: Regal QuickStep Stair Stringer Set (2 pack)
- Matching treads: Regal QuickStep 4' Stair Tread 11"
- For hybrid (wood and aluminum): 6 Step Pre Cut Stair Stringer, Pressure Treated LVL Stair Stringer
- Alternative aluminum: Pylex Aluminum Stair Stringer White 8 Step, Pylex Aluminum Stair Stringer Black 4 Step
- Compatible stair posts and mounting plates as above
Pro Tips Before You Start: Mistakes to Avoid
- Never “eyeball” your stair layout. Factory stringers require correct rise/run match to avoid uneven treads or unsafe stairs.
- Don’t assume your rim joist is strong enough. Reinforce or double-up under stair locations.
- Always anchor the bottom firmly. Shortcuts here often lead to long-term movement that can ruin both aesthetics and safety—especially in Canadian thaw/freeze cycles.
- Check code for railing, nosing, and riser openings. Incorrect placement can mean costly rework, especially before an inspection or sale.
We recommend referring to your local building code, and cross-checking your plan with our DIY deck building resources before buying materials.
Let’s Build It Right—And Make It Last
Investing in a Regal 6-step aluminum stair system means you’re aiming for a stairway that is not just attractive and maintenance-free, but also rock-solid and code-compliant. Whether you’re handling every aspect yourself or collaborating with local pros, thoughtful planning and the right hardware can save you hours, dollars, and frustration. If you have questions about which stringer fits your project, how to anchor to a unique site, or want to match stairs to composite or wood decks, our team in Regina and Saskatoon is ready to help you get started.
And remember, planning your stairs is just one part of building your perfect outdoor space. Don’t miss our detailed DIY deck building cluster for more in-depth instructions, compatible product lists, and project checklists—your shortcut to a professional result with less guesswork.
If you’re ready to bring your project vision to life or want personalized tips for sizing, anchoring, or product selection, reach out to The Ultimate Deck Shop—we treat your project like our own from start to finish.
