Home repair skillup

I’m not a fan of projects. I hate my lack of know-how as well as the multiple trips to the hardware store to get forgotten items. I see the value of being handy, I’m just not.

A few weeks ago we noticed that the back steps seemed to be “soft” a close examination last week revealed that the steps were falling off and would need to be repaired/replaced immediately.

I started the day thinking I would be able to just replace the two stringers (the sawtoothed boards that hold the steps). I even thought I’d be able to buy pre-cut stringers and do the whole job in two hours. Ha.

Luckily, I have a patient and encouraging wife and a kick-ass neighbor who has all the tools and know-how I need. Chuck even likes helping, as long as it’s “helping” and not “doing for”.

Chainsaw 1, Old Steps 0

Inspired helpers "fixing" the gate above

Hard part done.

Finished product

The whole job took about 6 hours once I had the materials. It’s not perfect, but we did it ourselves and the total materials cost was $100, which is great. I feel good about the result, and I’m glad we now have stairs that are safe for everyone.