Deck stairs should be designed to achieve what purpose?

Deck stairs should be designed primarily to facilitate easy access. This design consideration ensures that individuals can safely and comfortably move between different levels of a deck or outdoor area. Easy access promotes usability and enhances the overall experience of the space.

While aesthetics, support, and drainage are important in deck design, the primary function of stairs is to provide safe and efficient movement. A well-designed set of stairs will take into account the incline, tread depth, and riser height to ensure that users can navigate them without difficulty.

Aesthetics may enhance the visual appeal of the stairs, but they are secondary to functionality. Providing adequate support is crucial, as stairs must be structurally sound; however, this is part of the overall design rather than the primary purpose. Sloping stairs for drainage can help prevent water accumulation, but safety and accessibility remain the most critical considerations in stair design.