DIY: How to Make a Stair Stringer Step-by-Step

Making stair stringers may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be done easily. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or simply have a project in mind, the process of making a stair stringer is not as difficult as it may seem. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make a stair stringer.

A stair stringer is a structural member that supports the treads and risers of a stairway. It is a vital component of any staircase, and it is important to make it accurately and to the right measurements. The process of making a stair stringer involves calculating the rise and run of the stairs, cutting the stringers to the right size and shape, and attaching them to the staircase framing. In this guide, we will cover all the necessary steps to help you make a stair stringer like a pro.

Section 1: Tools and Materials Needed to Make a Stair Stringer

1. Measuring Tools

The first step in making a stair stringer is to measure the height from the floor to the top of the landing. This measurement will determine the number of risers required for your stairs. Use a measuring tape, ruler, or square to measure the height accurately. You will also need a set of stair gauges to transfer the measurements to the stringer.

2. Saw

The saw is the most important tool when making a stair stringer. You will need a circular saw or a handsaw to cut the stringer to size accurately. A handheld circular saw is the most efficient tool to use because it can cut through thick pieces of lumber with ease.

3. Hammer

You will need a hammer to drive the nails into the stringer as you work. A framing hammer is recommended because it has a nail-pulling feature on the head, allowing you to remove any nails that have been driven in incorrectly.

4. Nails

Nails are important tools when making a stair stringer. You will need a box of framing nails to secure the stringer to the stair treads and risers.

5. Lumber

You cannot make a stair stringer without lumber. You will need to purchase 2x12s for the stringer, and 2x4s for the diagonal braces. Ensure that the lumber is straight, and the corners are square. You will also need a few extra pieces of lumber to use as blocking as you work.

6. Speed Square

A speed square is an essential tool for making accurate cuts. It is shaped like a triangle and has a lip that sits against the edge of the material you are cutting. It helps to keep the saw level and ensure that your cuts are straight and accurate.

7. Safety Gear

Safety gear is essential when working with power tools and lumber. You will need to wear safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection when using the saw. Safety glasses will protect your eyes from flying debris, gloves will protect your hands from splinters, and ear protection will muffle the noise from the saw.

8. Pencil and Paper

Having a pencil and paper on hand will help you keep track of your measurements as you work. You can use the paper to sketch the stair stringer pattern and write down your measurements.

9. Drill

A drill is helpful when making a stair stringer. You can use it to pre-drill holes for the screws, making it easier to install the tread and riser supports.

10. Level

A level is a critical tool when building a stair stringer. It will help ensure that everything is plumb and level as you work. A 4-foot level is recommended as it is long enough to span the entire width of the stringer.

Materials Needed

To make a stair stringer, you will need some basic carpentry tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Measuring tape
2. Pencil
3. Circular saw
4. Handheld spiral saw
5. Power drill
6. Framing square
7. Speed square
8. Sawhorses
9. Wood glue
10. Nails or screws

You’ll also need to purchase the type of lumber you want to use for your stringer. We recommend using pressure-treated lumber (PT), which is durable and resistant to rot and insects. You can also use other types of wood, such as cedar or redwood, but these will cost more.

Step 1: Measure the Rise and Run of the stairs

To make a stair stringer, you need to determine the rise and run of the stairs. The rise is the height of each step, and the run is the depth or span of each step. Measure the distance from the top of the finished floor to the landing or top of the stairs to determine the overall rise. Then, measure the total run of the stairs, from the edge of the first step to the edge of the last step.

Step 2: Calculate the Number of Steps

Next, divide the overall rise by the height of each step to determine the number of steps. This will give you a rough idea of how many stair treads you’ll need.

Step 3: Determine the Stringer Dimensions

To determine the dimensions of your stair stringer, you need to use a framing square. Place the square on the lumber and mark the tread and the riser dimensions at the top and bottom of the square.

Step 4: Cut the Stringers

Using a circular saw and handheld spiral saw, carefully cut the stringers along the marks you made. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as safety glasses and earplugs.

Step 5: Support the Stringers

To ensure the stringers don’t warp or bend, support them with sawhorses or another sturdy surface.

Step 6: Cut Treads and Risers

Next, measure and cut the treads and risers. We recommend using a lumber that is at least 2 inches thick and wide enough to cover the entire stair span.

Step 7: Install Treads and Risers

Using wood glue and nails or screws, install the treads and risers onto the stringer. Be sure to check each step for levelness.

Step 8: Install the Stringers

Carefully install the stringers onto the stair frame, ensuring they are properly aligned and level.

Step 9: Add Handrails

For added safety, install handrails on both sides of the stairs. Be sure to follow local building codes for handrail height and spacing.

Step 10: Finishing touches

Finish off your stairs with a coat of paint or stain to protect the wood and give them a finished look. Congratulations, you have successfully made a stair stringer!

Calculating the Rise and Run of Your Staircase

One of the most critical factors in building a stair stringer is calculating the rise and run of each step. It is essential to ensure that the steps are of equal height and width, enabling safe and comfortable use of the staircase.

Step 1: Measure Total Rise

Start by measuring the total rise of the staircase, which is the vertical distance between the top and bottom of the stairs. You can do this by using a tape measure or a level. For accurate measurement, place the level on the top surface and measure the distance to the ground.

Step 2: Determine the Number of Steps

Next, you’ll need to determine the number of steps required to reach the total rise. To do this, divide the total rise by the desired height of each step. A height of around 7 to 8 inches is standard for most stairs.

Step 3: Determine the Rise

With the number of steps in hand, you can now calculate the rise of each step. Divide the total rise by the number of steps to find the height of each step. Remember to round off the calculation to the nearest whole number.

Step 4: Determine the Run

Once you have the height of each step, the next step is to calculate the run or the depth of each step. The run of each step should be long enough to accommodate the entire foot and to ensure the stability and safety of the staircase.

Step 5: Draw Your Stringer

As the final step, you can use the calculations for the rise and run to make a template for the stair stringer. Draw the outline on a piece of wood, a sheet of paper, or use one of the many online templates available for download.

In conclusion, calculating the rise and run of your stairs is an integral part of building a stable and safe staircase. Use this information to determine the measurement of each step, and this will ensure that the staircase is a comfortable and safe experience for everyone who uses it.

That’s how to make a stair stringer

Now you know how to make a stair stringer, and it’s not as difficult as it may seem. Take your time and be precise in every step, and you’ll have a sturdy and safe staircase in no time. Thanks for reading, and I hope you found this article helpful. Make sure to visit again later for more fun and interesting DIY projects!