Staircases can be built from a conventionally built deck to a floating deck. However, you do need to be aware of the fact that the floating deck will shift vertically each year depending on your local seasonal frost conditions. (For more information on Frost Heave Click Here.) Over time, this may cause strain on the top connection point of the stairs.This connection should be checked every spring for structural stability.

If there is only a few feet difference in height between the floating deck and the conventionally built deck, one may consider building a couple of box steps on the floating deck. This eliminates any strain or shift on the stairs. The box steps will only be attached to the the floating deck and not to the conventional deck. For more information on box steps Click Here.