Stairs are probably one of the most important elements of a great deck!  The type of stairs, the position of the stairs, the amount of traffic flow, the number of stairs, where the stairs bring you, also whether or not to add a stair landing and if so which type.  All these factors and more should be addressed.

Shown here is a standard Deck Specialists, Inc. Ironwood routed stair set with risers installed, also note the separate graspable handrail.  The solid vinyl rails are carried into the stair rails as well and the ironwood caprail gives both strength and beauty to the rails.

Here are a few examples of various stairs and stair elements:

Grande stairs: makes a statement              White risers                          very tall set     

intermediate stair landing         intermediate stair landing        stair extension at house

      angled stairs                       Low deck with inset fan stairs         low deck with fan stairs

Low decks: sometimes it is just better to lower the deck or add a lower level to bring your deck into the back yard. Fan stairs work great in this instance.   

Routed stair design:

The strongest method of stair construction. Here the stringers are solid boards not severely notched or nailed together triangles.  Rather the groves that support the stair treads are "let in" or routed, then full 2x12" treads are slid into these groves from the rear and mechanically fastened from the ends. Optional risers can also be added at this time.