How to Build a Staircase

Step 6: Cut the first stair stringer

For this step, you will need a framing square. You can find a framing square at most home centers. On one edge of the framing square, mark a line at the run distance. On the other side of your framing square, mark a line at the rise distance. You will use these marks to quickly layout your stair stringer.

Position the first mark you made on your framing square approximately 14-16 inches from the end of the 2"x12" board. Align the second mark on your framing square to the edge of the 2"x12" treated board and draw the the first step.

From the end point of the first step, continue drawing the remaining steps using the marks on the framing square as your guide.

On the bottom step, use the framing square to draw a line perpendicular to the rise of the step. Use a dimension equal to the rise minus the thickness of the surface board. (For Example: 7 1/2" minus 1 1/2" = 6") Extend a line at this dimension to the back edge of the 2"x12" board.

At the top step, use the framing square to draw a line that is perpendicular back from the rise of the step. Extend the line to the back edge of the 2"x12" board. Then mark a point that is equal to the distance of the run (starting from the point of the step).

to be continued on next page....

Printable Step by Step Instructions

The printable version of our instructions are in Adobe PDF format.

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