Today's project, log steps

[Jerry Houwer]

I made a set of log porch steps today from some larch logs because it seems to take the weather best. I have never built an outside set before, so it will be interesting how it holds up. I have about 7 hours into building these. I have built quite a few indoor log stairs.
On this set I mortised the treads into the stringers one inch because of the weather element involved. My other project today was sawing 600 bd. ft. of lumber for a client. It sure helps to have a sawmill to split the logs etc. I used a Makita 16" timberframe saw to cut the treads and stringers, which makes this job very easy and accurate.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s226/rhouwe/todaysproject.jpg

[Jim Becker]

That's a really interesting project! How are you fastening the tenons into the mortises in the stringers? Just weather resistant glue or also with some kind of mechanical fastener?

[Richard M. Wolfe]

Next step, cut a door.

Sorry, I couldn't resist.

[Jerry Houwer]

I'm using weather resistant gloe to hold the treads in place. Also, since they are short they will be held by lag bolts from the back side of the porch.

[Todd Jensen]

Thats really sharp looking. Nice work.

[Ben Grunow]

Tight mortises. I have used a 16"er and they are very useful when lumber is bigger than 2x.

Who is on the other side of the fence that you are trying to see?

Ben

[Richard Wolf]

Nice looking stairs.

Richard

[Dewayne Reding]

Those look very good Jerry. What is the best way to cut the mortise in a half log?

[Charles Jackson III]

Nice work!

[jason lambert]

Nice, simple looking, not to say it was simple to make, and looks grate. I really like them.

[Leonard Clark]

I am makeing log steps myself. What do you finish them with? Plus what about the checks in the logs, do you fill them with clear chaulk?:confused: