Exterior Stairs

A well-crafted staircase is an invitation, a statement, and a testament to the beauty of precise craftsmanship. Strong, reliable, and uniform, my staircases are built for more than ascending and descending.

Stairs with substance

Commit to quality

There are many different components of a staircase; hand-picking premium material is invaluable, and especially so when building exterior stairs out of wood on Vancouver Island’s wet climate. When picking my material for your exterior stairs I look for straight, kiln-dried, and tight-grain lumber that is free from defect (or at the least, minimal defect that can be manipulated/cut out to suit). Choosing the right materials, ensuring wood is properly cured before applying coatings, and applying my knowledge of best building practices results in staircases that stand up to the wear and tear of exterior use.

Calculated design

There’s a fair bit of careful calculation involved when designing and building staircases. Total rise, total run, desired rise, desired run, landing size, and handrail conformity are all important factors. This can be tricky, but attentive time spent in design is always well worth the effort! There are also many code requirements to stay on top of, based on safety and ease of access regulations. It’s my job to fit all these factors into a fluid, code-conforming structure that compliments the surrounding environment.

Outside the box

A properly positioned set of stairs is not only functional, but inviting and can draw the eye to compliment a stunning entrance. I’m always up for pushing the boundaries and thinking outside the box when it comes to construction. There’s perhaps a bit of a revolutionary spirit in me that drives me to craft innovative and imaginative solutions to building projects. I feel this unique perspective is one of my strengths as a builder. I’ve got the experience and the confidence to determine what works and what doesn’t.

Portrait of Liam Donnelly with a green hedge in the background; Liam is the owner and carpenter at Donnelly Woodworking in Nanaimo, BC

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Step forth with confidence

  • Straight Stairs

    Stair stairs are the dependable workhorse of staircases, offering a clean, uncluttered look that complements any architectural style.

    Simple yet elegant, straight stairs are perfect for those who appreciate minimalism and functionality.

    Whether housed or open, they offer a direct pathway upwards or downwards, both inviting and straightforward.

    But here, simplicity doesn’t mean boring. Straight stairs built by Donnelly Woodworking can become a tailored canvas, blending into their surroundings and your preferred style.

  • L-shaped Stairs

    By adding a turn to the mix, L-shaped stairs work especially well in areas where space is limited.

    The turn in the staircase allows for a change in direction without taking up excessive room, making them practical for compact outdoor spaces.

    An L-shaped stairway also adds visual interest, but without the added complexity of a U-shaped design. It’s a practical choice for those who want a bit of style without sacrificing simplicity.

  • Cantilevered (Floating) Stairs

    If you’re looking for something unique and modern in terms of your staircase, a cantilevered design just might be perfect.

    These minimalist designs appear to float in mid-air, creating a stunning visual effect. Despite their ethereal appearance, these stairs are, of course, firmly anchored and incredibly sturdy.

    The simple design also means fewer components to cut and fit, which in turn means less build-up of natural debris (leaves, moss or dirt).

    A floating set of stairs also has very little surface to cause moisture issues, and can be easily maintained.

  • U-Shaped Stairs

    U-shaped stairs allow for a smooth flow around corners, making it a practical design choice for areas where a continuous, sweeping design is desired.

    The double turn provides a compact solution for spaces where room is at a premium without compromising on style or elegance.

    With a landing mid-way, u-shaped exterior staircases are easy to climb, and are often built for access between ground-level and second-level decks.

  • Railings, Steps, & Banisters

    All staircases are have common elements that need to work together in harmony, and my custom carpentry work doesn’t just focus on the steps.

    I put the same care and attention into crafting each individual component as I do the entire staircase.

    Railings are more than just a safety feature; they are an integral part of the overall design.

    Steps are designed to be comfortable, safe, and durable.

    Banisters are built to be both functional and beautiful.

    Each element adds character and style to the staircase while also providing essential safety features.

FAQs

Here are some of the questions I am most commonly asked about building exterior stairs.

View all FAQs

Do you provide guidance on how to attain any required permits?

Yes, I am happy to walk clients through the permit process. I have a past working with large construction companies, and am very familiar with the construction permit process. Of course I will also ensure that your project complies with local regulations.

Can you fix my rotten, unsafe outdoor steps or staircases?

Yes. I can either replace what is needed or replace the entire set of stairs. A site inspection will quickly determine what is required for code conforming structural and aesthetic repair.

Do you have insurance and liability protection?

Yes, Donnelly Woodworking carries commercial liability insurance and WorkSafeBC (WCB) coverage.

Do you supply materials, or am I responsible for getting them on site?

Generally speaking, all my projects are supply and install so you don’t need to worry about sourcing materials. This also allows me to hand-select materials whenever possible, ideally allowing their inherent characteristics to guide the creative process.

  • Other Carpentry Services

  • Small Structures

  • Fences & Privacy Screens

  • Doors & Gates

  • Decks & Outdoor Living

  • Exterior Stairs

  • Interior Millwork & Trim

  • Cabinetry & Built-ins

Related Thoughts

Each build is an opportunity to bring something special into the world. Your project isn’t “just another job” to me.