How to measure stair stringers?

How can you know what are the proper measurements for a staircase? The answer lies in a perfectly sized stair stringer. Not only do these perfectly proportionate stair stringers ensure the stability of each step on the stairs, but they also provide an aesthetic appeal.

In this article, we are going to provide you a step-by-step guide on how to measure stair stringers.

See also: Flight of stairs: Types and calculation of the number of steps

 

Stair stringers: What are they?

Source: Pinterest (Lowe’s)

 

Before getting into the technicalities, it is important for you to understand what exactly stair stringers are. They are slanted supports that provide a structure to your staircase. They lay the foundation of a staircase and should be of the perfect length and slanted at the perfect angle for each step to be a safe flight.

 

Stair stringers: Measurement guide 

Before starting with the measurement process, here is a list of tools that you should have.

1. Measuring tape
2. Pencil and paper
3. Calculator
4. Square
5. Level

Find out the total rise

Take your measuring tape and start measuring the slant height of the staircase, i.e. measure from the edge of the first step to that of the very last step. This measurement is what we call the total rise of a staircase. Measure it at least twice to make sure the measurements are precise.

Total run

Total run is the total horizontal distance that your staircase covers. Start at the foot of the first step and horizontally measure till the last step. To calculate the height for each

step, you have to use Pythagorean Theorem, i.e. a^2 + b^2 = c^2, where A is the horizontal

distance or the total run, B is the height, and C is the total rise.

Tread depth and riser height

Determining the tread depth and riser height is a crucial step, and you need to perform calculations more than once to be accurate. The ratio of the total rise and the number of steps is called riser height, whereas the ratio of the total run and the number of steps is known as tread depth.

Calculate stringer dimensions

With the help of a framing square, mark the riser and tread measurements on your stringer board. Carefully calculating and marking these dimensions is important as they determine the perfect angle of the cuts.

Carefully mark the cuts

The next step is to draw the outline of the stringer on a board and mark the top and bottom cuts. Make sure each and every step is precise, leaving no room for error. Also, ensure that your stringer is well-balanced.

 

Source: Pinterest (Decks.com)

 

Time to make the cuts

Take a circular saw and, with its help, cut along the lines you marked earlier. Follow these lines slowly, and do not make any mistakes. It is advised to use a circular saw as it is easy to use and more precise than other methods.

Test the stringer

Place this cut stringer against a staircase to check if the size is perfect or not. If it fits perfectly, great! You have mastered it on the first try itself.

Cut more stringers

With the help of the first stringer, cut more stringers. You don’t need to measure and cut every single time; using the first stringer as a template will save you a lot of time.

Installing stringers

Now that you have successfully cut all the stringers, you can install them and secure them with the help of screws. Your perfect staircase is ready!

 

FAQs

How many stringers should I make?

Generally, staircases require around two stringers, but some might require three.

What should be the ideal tread depth?

The average tread depth can be anywhere between 9 to 11 inches.

What should my angle for the cuts be?

Generally, the angle varies depending on the rise and run. It is best to use a square for the accurate measure.

Should there be a gap between the wall and the stringer?

Yes, there should be a gap of around ¼ inch.

What if I do not have a circular saw?

You can use a hand saw, too, but a circular saw is more efficient and precise.

Can I use nails to secure stringers?

While you can use nails, it is better to secure the stringers with screws as they provide a better grip.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]