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How-To

Framing a Staircase

34 steps to building cut-stringer stairs.

By John Spier Issue 170
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Level over from the top of the stairs to a point above the bottom of the stairs.

Stair construction can intimidate even the most seasoned carpenters. There are lots of ways to build stairs. But regardless of the method you choose, every set of stairs requires the same basic approach to get from one floor to another safely, comfortably, and legally.

In this photo slideshow, Fine Homebuilding author John Spier takes you through the steps of building a set of stairs. The process begins with figuring out the exact size and proportions of the staircase. Use the drawing below to get familiar with the basic parts of a stair and the formulas used to calculate the two key variables — rise and run. Once you’ve determined the rise and run, you’re ready to start.

For more on framing a staircase, read John’s article “Strong and Simple Stairs” in the April/May 2005 issue of Fine Homebuilding (#170); or see Michael Maines’ article on calculating rise and run, “2 Rules for Building Comfortable Stairs. For a look at how to fabricate a classic set of housed-stringer stairs in the shop, see this article by Andy Engel.

Stair Formulas

Photos by: Roe A. Osborn; Illustration by: Dan Thornton

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  1. Suburbanguy | Oct 26, 2017 06:18pm | #1

    I'm not a professional, but around here (Southern Ontario) there are specialized stair manufacturing companies. ..Fabricated in a factory, using numerically controlled machines and delivered to the jobsite. I presume they'd need some shimming to fit. I also note that one never sees rafter and ridge beam construction here either. Always, trusses made a specialized lumberyards.

  2. GeorgiaSmith | Jul 06, 2018 08:48am | #2

    Good measurements for a staircase is mentioned which is a good point. You should also add Glossary of Staircase for terminologies. https://www.customspaces.com.au/

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