I like the way you called out the critics of your husband. You have proven yourself capable of meeting the challenges of your projects time after time, and like all of us, male or female, sometimes we need help, and sometimes we don't. My wife and myself are independent minded people who are quite willing to tackle projects alone when we don't need another's help, but we always know we are there for each other should the need arise. Kudos for your independence, can do attitude and gumption.
Not just the building of these stairs, but also think of the time and thoughtfulness it takes to film, commentate, and edit this video. Explaining things in a simple way so others can be encouraged and learn how to do this on their own. Very well done no matter being a man or a woman. You're a talented builder and educator. Defined not by your gender, but by your gift. Thanks for sharing your gift with others!
Just wanted to express my appreciation for this video. I'm a new homeowner and desperately needed to replace the existing deck stairs. This video has helped so much in planning and executing. I'm very new to this - cutting my first stringer was the first time I had ever used a circular saw. I'm just about at the finish line now and it's looking better than I could have imagined. Thank you!!!
Home improvement is a lot more complicated than I thought. Just learning to paint properly and put my own floors in took a lot of learning. I luckily have tradesmen in my family that I can run things by when I get confused. With the internet you can do a lot of the learning on your own but it's so nice to be able to just text a question to someone who has actually done it properly many times.
Personally I think it's a shame that some people would be so opinionated and judgemental of your husband's involvement in your projects. His respect for you to do things yourself is admirable and pretty much no one else's business or concern. As we've seen in other projects, Cody is ALWAYS willing to help, he's ALWAYS very complimentary, appreciative and proud of what his wife has accomplished. Keep up the great work April. By the way ... awesome job on the staircase. Keep the projects coming!!!
I think it's awesome your hubby doesn't try to jump in when you don't need the help...he respects your abilities, and knows you will do a good job, which is a big compliment.
My friend/roommate was a guy. If something was broken, he would buy the replacement part, and then give it to me to fix! He once wanted me to replace the light bulb on the kitchen ceiling about 9 feet up. He gave me the bulb and I was like "Yeah, you're 6'2 and I'm 5'2 and we don't have a ladder so what do you want me to do about it?"
I love your comment about your husband’s support! I find doing hard work by myself is therapeutic and stress relieving. Plus, sometimes having someone else, especially your spouse, around just makes the work go slower. Too much conversation, potential disagreements, and he can be working on something else anyway. Support from your spouse doesn’t always mean they are right next to you. Sometimes it means they respect you enough to leave you alone to do your thing.
WOW, that was incredibly impressive April. After seeing you do that I am wondering why am I dragging my heels to add a stair rail for the 5 steps I have. You did an amazing job.
I absolutely love your videos. The way you described everything you do and how you show everyone it's just fantastic. Thank you for taking the time do tackle each project and show us step-by-step and even explain what you do. You're fantastic lady and your husband is lucky to have you as well as are your kids
Impressive, absolutely impressive. And it is nice to see that your husband respects your abilities, and is willing to help when asked... that, is really a great thing!
@@Gar99 Obviously you wasn't looking at the video and listening when she said that she likes to do that kind of work, but only need her husband when she asked for his help 🤔
Great project !!! some of the differences I do on my builds 1) I never space the decking boards ,instead i use a bar clamp and pull them in tight ,they will eventually shrink 2) ive tried using a jig on spindles but found out the wood is inconsistent even though it takes more time i plumb up every spindle 3) You should explain to your viewers about crowning a floor joist and placing the decking boards with growth rings facing down .Was a great video and really loved the x bracing !!! owner of Ohio fence and deck for 30 yrs < keep up the good work !!!!
Funny I should see you here Izzy, I only had two new sub videos to watch when I logged on tonight yours and April's. I saved the best looking host for last lol. Glad I did tho as it turns out you was just screwing around today haha Don't worry just yanking yer chain you got a like too bro x
I just 'discovered' you through a YT recommendation about 4 months ago. Most of what I've viewed have been more recent projects from the past year which included very interesting but far more complex projects. This is the oldest of your videos I've seen so far and obviously when you were at a different house with a comparatively 'simpler' project. But you still showed a lot of thought and planning in your approach. I'm a total novice with carpentry and power tools but trying to learn. You've really opened my eyes to the importance of doing a bit of research and building smart from the beginning. Thank you, and please keep making your great videos.
Thanks! Yes, when starting, I went slow and built experience appropriate projects building on my experience, lessons learned from mistakes and my confidence. Now, I feel I can tackle any project. On my Channel, you can click on Videos and start at the beginning should you choose. Enjoy the build and thanks for watching.
I trained 3 females in carpentry while I was a member of the union and found they were quite capable at everything except the heavy lifting. I think you should be proud of doing this!
One woman is capable because she does have heart. Most woman can’t physically do it for a career. A token few could. I don’t criticize, I’m just saying. Their bodies could not take the abuse. Even working smart still uses plenty of strength and energy. This girl did wonderfully.
April you are a Rock Star at this....I love it! I live in a HOA and we have to get every single thing approved as it applies to add on's or upgrades outside of your home. I've been working on my back yard and I just wish I had your skills to create the vision I want. Thanks for your videos. Gurls Rock!
Sister April, Laying out and cutting Stringers are a true test of Journeyman Carpentry and you have obviously passed with flying colors Very nice sturdy and supportive staircase GOOD JOB April !!!
Makes me want to go out and build something!! One thing I noticed on the treads... you want the grain of the wood turned so that it is curved up in the middle. That way they don't tend to hold water and then rot/warp. Those turned with the curve down in the middle will tend to cup over time as they hold water and warp.
I love watching your videos... Im teaching my wife how to used tools and to help me with projects... We just did a porch together it was alot of fun working next to her and see that she is leaning
I don't know why any one would have any reason for negative comments. I being a single mom 36 years old have always had to do stuff myself or help my mom because she did things herself. From building stuff to landscaping. It's nice to appreciate the fact that you have someone there that can help you. Where not everyone has this option. Keep up the awesome work. You kicked a**.
Yes, he respected the fact it was my project but was willing to help if needed, and knew I'd ask for help, if needed. Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
April what a wonderful job you did. Great how you said it step by step so we saw how it went. Thank you so much for posting this video for us. GOD'S JOY.
Me overly enthusiastically: "I'm gonna do this project!!" Me to my husband after I'm in over my head: "HEEEEELP! I need your strength!!" GIRL! Same here. I tackle most of the DIY projects because I love to do that type of stuff, whereas my husband prefers not too. He will totally help if and when I ask, but I am a perfectionist and like to do stuff myself if I can haha. We're in the process of buying our first home and it needs new deck stairs. Thanks so so much for the video!
It's honestly as simple as it looks... if you know how to use your tools right it's incredibly easy... in my opinion stairs are just as easy as a wall section
Amazing Job being doing this stuff for 45 plus years and boy I am I impressed with all your knowledge and skill love your vides wish I had them 30 years ago Thanks ( little tip for pulling out the columns I had a fence company back in the 80's next time slide a 8 ft pipe end post over the jack handle for a little more leverage and safer to be away from it)
Use the old 4x4 you extracted and put it under the base of the high lift Jack. You will then need 4” LESS of extracting height, AND keep the Jack from sinking into the soft ground.
"sawzall" is very common in the south when referring to a reciprocating saw. Very much like "skillsaw" when referring to a circularsaw. just an FYI....but yes, I find the "sawl" thing kind of cute to be honest
Use a farm jack for that all the time. Just a hint....wrap a short peice of chain around the post and it can be adjusted no matter how long/deep the post is and the jack isn't forced into a bad angle, as is was under the the 2X4s.....
Use a farm jack for that all the time. Just a hint....wrap a short peice of chain around the post and it can be adjusted no matter how long/deep the post is and the jack isn't forced into a bad angle, as is was under the the 2X4s.....
Forty eight years a journeyman carpenter . I have done lots of stairs. I may have done a couple of thing differently. but hey. Good on you for tackling this project. Nice job.
thank you so much for your videos, I too am a woman just about to have a go at doing decking and pergola in my garden so its so encouraging to see a woman doing these jobs although I can tell you are a very competent joiner
I like doing things on my own too and it's always nice when you have people in your life that can respect that but also don't mind helping out when you ask. Out of curiosity, why treated lumber instead of composite?
SpecTRe X treated lumber is still used for the structure on composite decks. For the treads and decking, treated requires some maintenance but it's a lot cheaper than composite.
You did a great job! One of the best videos I have watched. I would hire you today. You covered all the details. I'm sure this comes from prior planning something many need to learn. I've replaced more decks and stairs then I can count from homeowners just jumping into a project with little to no pre planning. Most are not skilled enough to even attempt a job like this. Not in your case!
I love watching you occasionally hop around with pleasure as you work! I love doing DIY but now that my son moved out I don't have my helper strength around for the tough parts. It's really hindered my abilities to do things myself. Darn my weak lady muscles!
I really enjoyed this video. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your comment about your independence being the reason your husband is not helping unless you ask. I'm trying to give my two daughters as many skills as I know how to do so they can make the choice whether they want to do them in the future or not. After watching this one, the curved stairs from the tree deck, and your rocking chair build, I'm now a subscriber. Excellent work.
Awesome job.. Better than most builders I work with.. Just not to sure about the adhesive unless it's a bit flexible.. The treads will be expanding and shrinking their whole life.. Someone it's better to let the timber move.. Regards Cameron
Great video you have made me want to get qualified in carpentry and do a course.like the time lapse and detailed of each section and showing what tools for each cut and joint.brilliant
I totally agree with you she did a great job and it looks great but there are so many code violations there I feel bad mentioning it. Those posts all need to be six by sixes and the handrail grip ability doesn't meet code. But it's a really beautiful job and if it were done 25 years ago it would all meet code
First off, let me say that you are a fantastic Carpenter and in all respects, probably, better than I am. I just found your videos and I’ve really enjoyed watching them and am thoroughly impressed with your skill set and the attitude that you approach your work with. I did want to point something out that I hope will be helpful to you in the future. I noticed that when you set your step treads a number of them have the cup of the wood grain or the rings of the tree facing up. I’m not sure if you know what I’m speaking about, but if you look at the end of the board you’ll notice the curvature of the rings creates a cupping affect in the grain and if it’s put up it can trap more moisture and cause premature rotting. I don’t know what kind of climate you live in so this may not be an issue for you. I’m in Florida so it’s pretty wet here and it’s important that when we install any type of lumber outdoors that we’re careful to put the cupping down. Anyways, it’s not a serious issue and it’s not likely to cause you any real problems, but it’s just one more thing that we can do to make our projects last longer. Again, keep up the great work and keep those videos coming!
Just an FYI for next time. You should place the stair tread boards bark up, so if the board cups and bows, it should bow up letting rain water shed off. Like the step at 8:18 should go the other way. Was always told that by my Dad. Keep up the good work.
Why do so many people dislike these videos? She does a great job and explains everything. Is it because she’s a she? That’s sad. Keep making the videos April! They are inspiring.
Great build and yes big project but looks like you nailed it. And hubby did good helping and leaving you alone. I am very late to your channel but am enjoying watching your videos for one reason. You are not afraid of power tools and hard work. Enjoy it. Hope life treats you and hubby well.
Hi April. I am an ophtalmologist from Santo Domigo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic. I have also worked as a carpenter in the past. I saw you use both a hammer and power tools in this video "without any eye protection", and I must tell you you have to stop doing that. It is very dangerous, and I must say that you will eventually suffer an eye injury if you keep doing that. Since 1981, when I graduated from med school, I have seen about 2 dozens carpenters loose an eye for hammering without protective eyewear. Please wear glasses. Do not allow yourself to become a statistic. Best wishes.
I'm a physician as well and couldn't agree more. I also do a lot of carpentry and always wear eye, ear, head, respiratory, and sun protection. Even on a cloudy day UV rays are bombarding us. On at least 5 occasions I've had high velocity projectiles come right at my eyes only to safely bounce off my eyewear. None of it was while hammering which is when you most expect it. It was when I was pulling something or putting something down and something breaks off and goes flying due to leverage. Also, when you're sawing you should always wear a mask so as not to breathe in the particles. Treated wood has nasty chemicals in it you don't want residing in your alveoli on tiny particles of wood. People take home carpentry way too casually. Finally, wear a helmet or at least a bump cap when working. If it's just too hot then wear ear protection where the padding on top is wide and thick. This has acted as a helmet for me many times.
Thankyou!! Besides showing me how to take on my smaller stairs myself(which I do all projects), you made sure to mention that you prefer to do these things by yourself. I do as well. I have a trifling make neighbour who runs over to help me when I don’t want his help. It is my project and I find him condescending and takes over, making me want to throw a tarp over my whole house so he can’t see what I’m doing, because he doesn’t know what he’s doing and has messed up my work before causing me to redo the work properly which costs me more time and money. I love your videos and you’re so lucky to have your husband respect your work
dex that’s why I’m in the comment section. Trying to find out what’s there to dislike. I wouldn’t even know where to begin ...’let alone which tool to use lol
As a former deck builder, this wouldn't pass code. She mentions the intermediate posts in the end, but doesn't actually show it later finished. As a "how to" content creator, you have to be careful with building something that technically wouldn't pass and then blast it out to how many people? Anyways, 4x4 posts could have run all the way through to the ground to act as intermediate posts (as previously said somewhere in the comments). Also, I am assuming that the pad she had affixed her posts to is not poured to the right depth (usually needs 36 inches by 8-12 inch diameter under is needed-- not the 4-6 inches most pads tend to be). I'd like to know the spacing on the joists too as that needs to be a certain spacing. Long story short. There are gaps here. However, I did learn some other techniques.
Use a farm jack for that all the time. Just a hint....wrap a short peice of chain around the post and it can be adjusted no matter how long/deep the post is and the jack isn't forced into a bad angle, as is was under the the 2X4s.....
Great video on an awesome job,I just quit watching a video of a guy that was doing a project like yours without any single explanation or showing how to step by step ,on the contrary you explain every detail which is great for anybody that wants to lear how to build stuff,so doble thanks girl,and it all looks great ,very professional !
Are you serious kudos to you and yeah like you said your husband to help if you ask him but it's a project you want to do and film and the fact that you are capable it's awesome what an inspiring video definitely going to send this one to my wife see if I can get a new porch
Nice, code in Michigan requires the posts to be notched where your headers connect to the joists . That way the weight is transferred directly through the post rather than creating a joint fighting sheer stress. As always nice, however, did you pull any permits for this or your other large home projects?
I do as well, I'm always impressed. I learned as I went, but I had to buy copies of the Nat. Electric Code, Plumber's codes, as well. And some of the things I learned were from the nice inspectors who told me what I needed to do to pass inspection. 8^)
I saw April for the first time in a program with Tim Allen "More Power" on History Channel, she is great at explaining things, she is very skilful and has a sense of humor even when Tim gets cheeky again. April's appearances on the show were the reason why I now follow her on TH-cam 🙂
is nice to hear you defending your husband and clarifying stuff like this, many internet keyboard warriors lack logic. many womans like to do this stuff, ive seen some that when you try to help them they are like LET ME DO IT MYSELF lol if they want help they will ask for it...
I’ll fly, house and feed you if you come to my house in Puerto Rico and build me a replica. Lol......awesome work. I’m a single woman in my 50’s trying to do this all on my own and learning how to use woodworking tools off of TH-cam. Wish me luck🙏🏽
my pro tip: I started doing woodworking stuff after watching a lot of youtube videos: you gonna do mistakes left and right at the beginning, but the trick is to just try and learn. maybe don't start with a staircase project, since people can get hurt when its done wrong. ;) but go ahead and maybe start with a dog house or an outside table... by the end you will have learned enough to takle the staircase project
watched your video for the first time, good instructions imformation and a nice tidy job. good to see you are not short cutting any of the work. go girl
I have watched a few of your projects. I would like to see my daughter show some interest in this line of work. I've had my construction company since 1990. Everything you did was good. I would offer some small tips. If you had saved the original stringer, you could have used it for a pattern, as long as it was correct to begin with. Even with it being "wonky". Second, we stopped using 2 x 12 for the treads. The tend to split, crack, warp and just look bad after a year. I prefer 2 - 2x6 instead. I find they work out much better. They are also lighter to handle. Third, you need to wait at least a year, if not longer to do any staining or painting. When they took out the arsenic and substituted copper chromate, it just doesn't hold stain and especially paint. We've had best luck with Flood stain, but I'm sure there are other stains that would work well. I just haven't found any. Keep up the good work.
Great job, however! Why did you cut those posts to landing level when railing is needed? Using the posts would have saved a lot of time and more stable considering they were plenty long.
Put a 2x4 underneath the lift jack. Or better yet, attach it to the lift jack. You'll have a better time with the levering by the action of a solid footing.
Professionally done video. I am not a carpenter. However, I enjoy trying my own projects around my cottage and depend totally on quality TH-cam videos like this by AW. Thanks.
I like the way you called out the critics of your husband. You have proven yourself capable of meeting the challenges of your projects time after time, and like all of us, male or female, sometimes we need help, and sometimes we don't. My wife and myself are independent minded people who are quite willing to tackle projects alone when we don't need another's help, but we always know we are there for each other should the need arise. Kudos for your independence, can do attitude and gumption.
: ) Thank you.
Not just the building of these stairs, but also think of the time and thoughtfulness it takes to film, commentate, and edit this video. Explaining things in a simple way so others can be encouraged and learn how to do this on their own. Very well done no matter being a man or a woman. You're a talented builder and educator. Defined not by your gender, but by your gift. Thanks for sharing your gift with others!
This! Thank you, you took the word right out of my fingers! Lol
I kept coming back to this staircase video. My favourite April’s project video so far.
Just wanted to express my appreciation for this video. I'm a new homeowner and desperately needed to replace the existing deck stairs. This video has helped so much in planning and executing. I'm very new to this - cutting my first stringer was the first time I had ever used a circular saw. I'm just about at the finish line now and it's looking better than I could have imagined. Thank you!!!
Awesome! I'm glad you found it useful! Thanks for watching.
Home improvement is a lot more complicated than I thought. Just learning to paint properly and put my own floors in took a lot of learning. I luckily have tradesmen in my family that I can run things by when I get confused. With the internet you can do a lot of the learning on your own but it's so nice to be able to just text a question to someone who has actually done it properly many times.
Any hobby or trade whatsoever is a lot more complicated than you think. No competency comes free without proper time invested.
Personally I think it's a shame that some people would be so opinionated and judgemental of your husband's involvement in your projects. His respect for you to do things yourself is admirable and pretty much no one else's business or concern. As we've seen in other projects, Cody is ALWAYS willing to help, he's ALWAYS very complimentary, appreciative and proud of what his wife has accomplished. Keep up the great work April. By the way ... awesome job on the staircase. Keep the projects coming!!!
Chris Snively mercedesbenxmudguards
good morning good ster
I think it's awesome your hubby doesn't try to jump in when you don't need the help...he respects your abilities, and knows you will do a good job, which is a big compliment.
hi I baby
My friend/roommate was a guy. If something was broken, he would buy the replacement part, and then give it to me to fix! He once wanted me to replace the light bulb on the kitchen ceiling about 9 feet up. He gave me the bulb and I was like "Yeah, you're 6'2 and I'm 5'2 and we don't have a ladder so what do you want me to do about it?"
SepherStar okay..
Cool Story
@@SepherStar who cares
I love your comment about your husband’s support! I find doing hard work by myself is therapeutic and stress relieving. Plus, sometimes having someone else, especially your spouse, around just makes the work go slower. Too much conversation, potential disagreements, and he can be working on something else anyway. Support from your spouse doesn’t always mean they are right next to you. Sometimes it means they respect you enough to leave you alone to do your thing.
So true! Thanks for watching.
WOW, that was incredibly impressive April. After seeing you do that I am wondering why am I dragging my heels to add a stair rail for the 5 steps I have. You did an amazing job.
I absolutely love your videos. The way you described everything you do and how you show everyone it's just fantastic. Thank you for taking the time do tackle each project and show us step-by-step and even explain what you do. You're fantastic lady and your husband is lucky to have you as well as are your kids
Impressive, absolutely impressive. And it is nice to see that your husband respects your abilities, and is willing to help when asked... that, is really a great thing!
It is! I wish I could do something like this! Don't have the money or intelligence haha
@@Gar99 cause he's not a carpenter I guess. It's not easy to be one
You sound like you could be her husband that wrote this lol 🤭
@@Gar99 Obviously you wasn't looking at the video and listening when she said that she likes to do that kind of work, but only need her husband when she asked for his help 🤔
That is the real bond between hus and wife..
Great project !!! some of the differences I do on my builds 1) I never space the decking boards ,instead i use a bar clamp and pull them in tight ,they will eventually shrink 2) ive tried using a jig on spindles but found out the wood is inconsistent even though it takes more time i plumb up every spindle 3) You should explain to your viewers about crowning a floor joist and placing the decking boards with growth rings facing down .Was a great video and really loved the x bracing !!! owner of Ohio fence and deck for 30 yrs < keep up the good work !!!!
hats off to this woman.
hell of project to take on April. Mad respect for you taking it on and doing such a great job.
Funny I should see you here Izzy, I only had two new sub videos to watch when I logged on tonight yours and April's. I saved the best looking host for last lol. Glad I did tho as it turns out you was just screwing around today haha Don't worry just yanking yer chain you got a like too bro x
: ) Thank you Izzy, much appreciated.
izzy swan
izzy swan
hola
Ok, I got here in 2018 and I think this is (still?) quite a top notch video here on TH-cam.
Thank you and greetings from Portugal.
I just 'discovered' you through a YT recommendation about 4 months ago. Most of what I've viewed have been more recent projects from the past year which included very interesting but far more complex projects. This is the oldest of your videos I've seen so far and obviously when you were at a different house with a comparatively 'simpler' project. But you still showed a lot of thought and planning in your approach. I'm a total novice with carpentry and power tools but trying to learn. You've really opened my eyes to the importance of doing a bit of research and building smart from the beginning. Thank you, and please keep making your great videos.
Thanks! Yes, when starting, I went slow and built experience appropriate projects building on my experience, lessons learned from mistakes and my confidence. Now, I feel I can tackle any project. On my Channel, you can click on Videos and start at the beginning should you choose. Enjoy the build and thanks for watching.
I trained 3 females in carpentry while I was a member of the union and found they were quite capable at everything except the heavy lifting. I think you should be proud of doing this!
One woman is capable because she does have heart. Most woman can’t physically do it for a career. A token few could. I don’t criticize, I’m just saying. Their bodies could not take the abuse. Even working smart still uses plenty of strength and energy. This girl did wonderfully.
@@terrencedillon4345 bruh in Aus theres so many
Thrasher. I couldn’t agree more.
Nathan Zmegac not really when u compare it to how many men work like this day in day out.
April you are a Rock Star at this....I love it! I live in a HOA and we have to get every single thing approved as it applies to add on's or upgrades outside of your home. I've been working on my back yard and I just wish I had your skills to create the vision I want. Thanks for your videos. Gurls Rock!
Wow April......you amaze and inspire me and IV been a heavy duty DIYer for many many years.
: ) Thank you
Sister April,
Laying out and cutting Stringers are a true test of Journeyman Carpentry and you have obviously passed with flying colors
Very nice sturdy and supportive staircase
GOOD JOB April !!!
Makes me want to go out and build something!! One thing I noticed on the treads... you want the grain of the wood turned so that it is curved up in the middle. That way they don't tend to hold water and then rot/warp. Those turned with the curve down in the middle will tend to cup over time as they hold water and warp.
I love watching your videos... Im teaching my wife how to used tools and to help me with projects... We just did a porch together it was alot of fun working next to her and see that she is leaning
WOW, looks amazing, I got exhausted just watching you build that!
I don't know why any one would have any reason for negative comments. I being a single mom 36 years old have always had to do stuff myself or help my mom because she did things herself. From building stuff to landscaping. It's nice to appreciate the fact that you have someone there that can help you. Where not everyone has this option. Keep up the awesome work. You kicked a**.
Also I love that he doesn't push the issue and let's you do your thing but is there when you need help. ❤
Yes, he respected the fact it was my project but was willing to help if needed, and knew I'd ask for help, if needed. Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
April what a wonderful job you did. Great how you said it step by step so we saw how it went. Thank you so much for posting this video for us.
GOD'S JOY.
You give this 64 year-old grandma hope for her own projects! You ROCK!
Me overly enthusiastically: "I'm gonna do this project!!"
Me to my husband after I'm in over my head: "HEEEEELP! I need your strength!!"
GIRL! Same here. I tackle most of the DIY projects because I love to do that type of stuff, whereas my husband prefers not too. He will totally help if and when I ask, but I am a perfectionist and like to do stuff myself if I can haha. We're in the process of buying our first home and it needs new deck stairs. Thanks so so much for the video!
Don't do like hers.
what you like friendship with me me .
Wow,you are one of the few female carpenter builders I have ever met with strong practical ability. You did the great job...awesome!!! 👏😄👍
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching.
One of those jobs that looks simple but is actually incredibly tricky.
Rob Trautvetter - Takami Woodshop i
Yeah true used to work with tones of wood
Rob Trautvetter - Takami Woodshop hi it’s big day to day
It's honestly as simple as it looks... if you know how to use your tools right it's incredibly easy... in my opinion stairs are just as easy as a wall section
Rob Trautvetter your right
Ho-lee-smokes! You should be very proud of yourself. That turned out amazing.
April, my 6 year old daughter watched this with me and lol'd at your "hey you, get off my stairs"!
Ha, that's good. Give her a big hug from me.
Amazing Job being doing this stuff for 45 plus years and boy I am I impressed with all your knowledge and skill love your vides wish I had them 30 years ago Thanks ( little tip for pulling out the columns I had a fence company back in the 80's next time slide a 8 ft pipe end post over the jack handle for a little more leverage and safer to be away from it)
Very thorough explanation- dont think you left anything out, which is important for carpentry novices like myself. Thanks for the vid 👍
Sweet !!! Thanks for the idea with the jacks !!
Been watching you from the very beginning, your capabilities and the small amount of time you've had to improve them are extraordinary.
: ) Thank you, it's something I enjoy so I'm glad I'm improving.
April Wilkerson I like doing things on my own too, my husband respects that, never care what haters have to say.
Use the old 4x4 you extracted and put it under the base of the high lift Jack. You will then need 4” LESS of extracting height, AND keep the Jack from sinking into the soft ground.
Excellent! Like how you say "sawl."
powaybob it's actually sawzall. I think.
powaybob Lol. I rate these videos by how often April says "saw." This one gets a very high score.
"sawzall" is very common in the south when referring to a reciprocating saw. Very much like "skillsaw" when referring to a circularsaw. just an FYI....but yes, I find the "sawl" thing kind of cute to be honest
TG Leviathan Its no different than Bandaid or Kleenex. I've also heard people call linesmen pliers "kleins".
It's fun to watch your growth as a woodworker. Nice job.
: ) Thanks Mike.
April Wilkerson عمل رائع سيدتي
@@turkyh8263 toi dik dindon😠
That looks fantastic April. It sure does look very strong and I love the way you used a jack to lift the old posts, very neat idea!
Use a farm jack for that all the time. Just a hint....wrap a short peice of chain around the post and it can be adjusted no matter how long/deep the post is and the jack isn't forced into a bad angle, as is was under the the 2X4s.....
Geee Lady, you are bloody brilliant!!! The way you took out the old 4x4 's , that needs to be celebrated!
came out amazing. well done
Thanks!
Wow girl, I would’ve never thought about that jack, trust me it will be used on future projects 👍🏽👍🏽
Use a farm jack for that all the time. Just a hint....wrap a short peice of chain around the post and it can be adjusted no matter how long/deep the post is and the jack isn't forced into a bad angle, as is was under the the 2X4s.....
You are truly a bad ass at this so as always its total respect.
Forty eight years a journeyman carpenter . I have done lots of stairs. I may have done a couple of thing differently. but hey. Good on you for tackling this project. Nice job.
Clever! This woman can build an entire city. )
I'm not sure why I enjoyed watching this in it's entirety. I don't even own an outdoors staircase.
....I hear you Brother but knowledge is power some of it has to stick...besides I can't get enough of watching other people work.
because she is easy on the eyes ?
B/C u r a freak. You not alone tho.
Very good I have stairs 40yr old need to be replace I did learn about how to from you video 😀
Lol
I'm jealous. (In the good way) I am sure that thirty years ago I could have attempted a project like this... Wonderful. Your life is very fulfilling!
thank you so much for your videos, I too am a woman just about to have a go at doing decking and pergola in my garden so its so encouraging to see a woman doing these jobs although I can tell you are a very competent joiner
You know what's next !!!!! An enclosed storage under the stairs 💯🔥👍, or maybe that's just me😁
I like doing things on my own too and it's always nice when you have people in your life that can respect that but also don't mind helping out when you ask.
Out of curiosity, why treated lumber instead of composite?
SpecTRe X treated lumber is still used for the structure on composite decks. For the treads and decking, treated requires some maintenance but it's a lot cheaper than composite.
Nick Lombardo Thanks, that's what I figured it came down to.
SpecTRe X
+greg rothwell Yes?
SpecTRe X
You did a great job! One of the best videos I have watched. I would hire you today. You covered all the details. I'm sure this comes from prior planning something many need to learn. I've replaced more decks and stairs then I can count from homeowners just jumping into a project with little to no pre planning. Most are not skilled enough to even attempt a job like this. Not in your case!
Wow..more than hats off to this woman...I'm highly impressed and the video is not even over yet. I'm watching the out door staircase vid.
Awesome! Love the attitude, not to mention skill and tenacity
I love watching you occasionally hop around with pleasure as you work! I love doing DIY but now that my son moved out I don't have my helper strength around for the tough parts. It's really hindered my abilities to do things myself. Darn my weak lady muscles!
I hear ya! 😕
turned out killer - great job!
Thanks Nick!
I really enjoyed this video. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your comment about your independence being the reason your husband is not helping unless you ask. I'm trying to give my two daughters as many skills as I know how to do so they can make the choice whether they want to do them in the future or not. After watching this one, the curved stairs from the tree deck, and your rocking chair build, I'm now a subscriber. Excellent work.
Awesome job..
Better than most builders I work with..
Just not to sure about the adhesive unless it's a bit flexible..
The treads will be expanding and shrinking their whole life..
Someone it's better to let the timber move..
Regards Cameron
Great video you have made me want to get qualified in carpentry and do a course.like the time lapse and detailed of each section and showing what tools for each cut and joint.brilliant
As A carpenter I am slow to say great job, but you deserve it, a nice clean job that looks like it also structurally sound
I totally agree with you she did a great job and it looks great but there are so many code violations there I feel bad mentioning it. Those posts all need to be six by sixes and the handrail grip ability doesn't meet code. But it's a really beautiful job and if it were done 25 years ago it would all meet code
First off, let me say that you are a fantastic Carpenter and in all respects, probably, better than I am. I just found your videos and I’ve really enjoyed watching them and am thoroughly impressed with your skill set and the attitude that you approach your work with. I did want to point something out that I hope will be helpful to you in the future. I noticed that when you set your step treads a number of them have the cup of the wood grain or the rings of the tree facing up. I’m not sure if you know what I’m speaking about, but if you look at the end of the board you’ll notice the curvature of the rings creates a cupping affect in the grain and if it’s put up it can trap more moisture and cause premature rotting. I don’t know what kind of climate you live in so this may not be an issue for you. I’m in Florida so it’s pretty wet here and it’s important that when we install any type of lumber outdoors that we’re careful to put the cupping down. Anyways, it’s not a serious issue and it’s not likely to cause you any real problems, but it’s just one more thing that we can do to make our projects last longer.
Again, keep up the great work and keep those videos coming!
Just an FYI for next time. You should place the stair tread boards bark up, so if the board cups and bows, it should bow up letting rain water shed off. Like the step at 8:18 should go the other way. Was always told that by my Dad. Keep up the good work.
Why do so many people dislike these videos? She does a great job and explains everything. Is it because she’s a she? That’s sad. Keep making the videos April! They are inspiring.
Oh my gosh. I literally want to be you when I grow up. Great work
@Katie Mathis - what about being a dentist or a lawyer and pay April Wilkerson to do it for you ?
ROMANABSOLUT why not be both? Learn woodworking skills as well
Great build and yes big project but looks like you nailed it. And hubby did good helping and leaving you alone. I am very late to your channel but am enjoying watching your videos for one reason. You are not afraid of power tools and hard work. Enjoy it. Hope life treats you and hubby well.
Beautifully done . Extremely professional . U R a great inspiration for lot of people . Awesome job . God Bless .
Hi April. I am an ophtalmologist from Santo Domigo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic. I have also worked as a carpenter in the past. I saw you use both a hammer and power tools in this video "without any eye protection", and I must tell you you have to stop doing that. It is very dangerous, and I must say that you will eventually suffer an eye injury if you keep doing that. Since 1981, when I graduated from med school, I have seen about 2 dozens carpenters loose an eye for hammering without protective eyewear. Please wear glasses. Do not allow yourself to become a statistic. Best wishes.
I'm a physician as well and couldn't agree more.
I also do a lot of carpentry and always wear eye, ear, head, respiratory, and sun protection. Even on a cloudy day UV rays are bombarding us. On at least 5 occasions I've had high velocity projectiles come right at my eyes only to safely bounce off my eyewear. None of it was while hammering which is when you most expect it. It was when I was pulling something or putting something down and something breaks off and goes flying due to leverage. Also, when you're sawing you should always wear a mask so as not to breathe in the particles. Treated wood has nasty chemicals in it you don't want residing in your alveoli on tiny particles of wood. People take home carpentry way too casually. Finally, wear a helmet or at least a bump cap when working. If it's just too hot then wear ear protection where the padding on top is wide and thick. This has acted as a helmet for me many times.
Wow! major project April and it look great!... Nice work
: ) Thank you Jon.
Jon Peters Art & Home when two TH-cam gods meet!
هلو انا متابع من العراق
هلو انا متابع من العراق
Jon Peters Art & Home d
Thankyou!! Besides showing me how to take on my smaller stairs myself(which I do all projects), you made sure to mention that you prefer to do these things by yourself. I do as well. I have a trifling make neighbour who runs over to help me when I don’t want his help. It is my project and I find him condescending and takes over, making me want to throw a tarp over my whole house so he can’t see what I’m doing, because he doesn’t know what he’s doing and has messed up my work before causing me to redo the work properly which costs me more time and money. I love your videos and you’re so lucky to have your husband respect your work
Builder & designer April!! You did a first class stairway well built.
whats with the dislikes... this is a big project and requires discipline and knowledge, good job!
dex that’s why I’m in the comment section. Trying to find out what’s there to dislike. I wouldn’t even know where to begin ...’let alone which tool to use lol
4x4 should have been used for your rails
@@SxyGrl44 exactly!
@@rolandtrevino1546 says who?? who cares, she used what she had and it works.
As a former deck builder, this wouldn't pass code. She mentions the intermediate posts in the end, but doesn't actually show it later finished. As a "how to" content creator, you have to be careful with building something that technically wouldn't pass and then blast it out to how many people? Anyways, 4x4 posts could have run all the way through to the ground to act as intermediate posts (as previously said somewhere in the comments). Also, I am assuming that the pad she had affixed her posts to is not poured to the right depth (usually needs 36 inches by 8-12 inch diameter under is needed-- not the 4-6 inches most pads tend to be). I'd like to know the spacing on the joists too as that needs to be a certain spacing. Long story short. There are gaps here. However, I did learn some other techniques.
Huge undertaking! Nice work with the jack!
Thanks!
Use a farm jack for that all the time. Just a hint....wrap a short peice of chain around the post and it can be adjusted no matter how long/deep the post is and the jack isn't forced into a bad angle, as is was under the the 2X4s.....
@@AprilWilkerson great job.
Great video on an awesome job,I just quit watching a video of a guy that was doing a project like yours without any single explanation or showing how to step by step ,on the contrary you explain every detail which is great for anybody that wants to lear how to build stuff,so doble thanks girl,and it all looks great ,very professional !
Great job. This is the first time I've ever left a comment, but this was a great video.
: ) Thank you
April Wilkerson I love you😘😘❤💖
Robert Giles
Robert Giles جميل
It's amazing woman can do like man. I love it.
Are you serious kudos to you and yeah like you said your husband to help if you ask him but it's a project you want to do and film and the fact that you are capable it's awesome what an inspiring video definitely going to send this one to my wife see if I can get a new porch
Nice, code in Michigan requires the posts to be notched where your headers connect to the joists . That way the weight is transferred directly through the post rather than creating a joint fighting sheer stress. As always nice, however, did you pull any permits for this or your other large home projects?
jconradh News to me, and I've lived in Michigan my whole life.
jconradh Building code in Ontario would require 4x6 with the header notched in.
She did do a great job :)
I do as well, I'm always impressed. I learned as I went, but I had to buy copies of the Nat. Electric Code, Plumber's codes, as well. And some of the things I learned were from the nice inspectors who told me what I needed to do to pass inspection. 8^)
Screw all these REGULATIONS - lets #MAGA!!!
I was upset about the guard rail codes for stairs (>4" gaps), so I made the 'spindles' from barbed wire lol.
It' s wondefull how you make things work or just you build what you need, you are a Pretty , talented and smart woman, congratulations
Best thing a man can ask for
She definitely a keeper
For sure.
There is nothing better than having a strong woman in your corner and better yet having one that can build a staircase without your help. 💖💕💞
5:30 Did u close off your ears when she said she have to call on her engineer husband.
1:38 Yeah right
The house will fall down before those steps do, lol. Nice work.
I saw April for the first time in a program with Tim Allen "More Power" on History Channel, she is great at explaining things, she is very skilful and has a sense of humor even when Tim gets cheeky again. April's appearances on the show were the reason why I now follow her on TH-cam 🙂
is nice to hear you defending your husband and clarifying stuff like this, many internet keyboard warriors lack logic. many womans like to do this stuff, ive seen some that when you try to help them they are like LET ME DO IT MYSELF lol if they want help they will ask for it...
Great work! I can't understand anybody disliking this.... Keep it up :)
Dimitri Spierdalaj منور ورده
Dimitri Spierdalaj good
نوشكا نوشكا حتى هنا لحكتني كلمة منور😡😠😂😂
I’ll fly, house and feed you if you come to my house in Puerto Rico and build me a replica.
Lol......awesome work.
I’m a single woman in my 50’s trying to do this all on my own and learning how to use woodworking tools off of TH-cam.
Wish me luck🙏🏽
mina rosa-diaz good luck !!
mina rosa-diaz good luck
No
@@erikdevaas4605 what?
my pro tip: I started doing woodworking stuff after watching a lot of youtube videos: you gonna do mistakes left and right at the beginning, but the trick is to just try and learn. maybe don't start with a staircase project, since people can get hurt when its done wrong. ;) but go ahead and maybe start with a dog house or an outside table... by the end you will have learned enough to takle the staircase project
watched your video for the first time, good instructions imformation and a nice tidy job. good to see you are not short cutting any of the work. go girl
Glad it was helpful!
I have watched a few of your projects. I would like to see my daughter show some interest in this line of work. I've had my construction company since 1990. Everything you did was good.
I would offer some small tips. If you had saved the original stringer, you could have used it for a pattern, as long as it was correct to begin with. Even with it being "wonky".
Second, we stopped using 2 x 12 for the treads. The tend to split, crack, warp and just look bad after a year. I prefer 2 - 2x6 instead. I find they work out much better. They are also lighter to handle.
Third, you need to wait at least a year, if not longer to do any staining or painting. When they took out the arsenic and substituted copper chromate, it just doesn't hold stain and especially paint. We've had best luck with Flood stain, but I'm sure there are other stains that would work well. I just haven't found any.
Keep up the good work.
Excellent job...! Looks great...
Cheers...
Excelente mujer
ف
Nabil Halibi mablepolish
Adam Quincey good
nice work Love You
You should've let the 4x4 be used for railing instead of cutting them ,my opinion looks good though👍🏼
Was fixing to mention what you did, would have saved some time and lock everything together better BUT still came out awesome!
Nice job well built and glad u didn't put music in there and explained everything you were doing
Great job, however! Why did you cut those posts to landing level when railing is needed? Using the posts would have saved a lot of time and more stable considering they were plenty long.
Where you gonna put your coffee cup right, I'm like crap
th-cam.com/video/jNeo3tS1tx8/w-d-xo.html
Put a 2x4 underneath the lift jack. Or better yet, attach it to the lift jack. You'll have a better time with the levering by the action of a solid footing.
Wow we are so much alike 😂 I usually do projects, and ask my husband when I feel I need it.
I enjoy doing projects on my own!!
Dude. Your ambition is contagious! I'm gonna go resurface my deck with the motivation I got from watching this!
Nice accurate job keep it up ...start your own wood construction business you will be sucessful
Impresionada con esta mujer carpintera , me encantó su trabajo .. Ya no hay nada que una mujer no pueda hacer!!!
no pudo levantar la viga y le toco llamar al marido ...¿no notaste?
@@BarucMendoza si,lo noté, pero la participación del marido fue muy poca,ella estaba a cargo del trabajo!
@@BarucMendoza maneja todas las herramientas con total confianza!!
Lidia Belizan seguro mato a confianza
@@BarucMendoza 😁😁😁😁😁
this woman is a beast🔥❤
What an extremely crafty competent woman....
That is smart!!! Where is my wife, we will start with something simple! inflatable pool.
Superb dear awesome
Great job. Will follow your channel
Professionally done video. I am not a carpenter. However, I enjoy trying my own projects around my cottage and depend totally on quality TH-cam videos like this by AW. Thanks.
Thanks! I'm glad you find my videos useful. Thanks for watching.