How to Build a Staircase

Staircase is a very important part of a house. A good looking staircase adds to the beauty of your home. A set of wooden stairs really contributes to the decor of a home and also, it is not very hard to build. With the availability of few things at home you can conveniently build a staircase. Following guide will help you to build a staircase in your house successfully.

Complexity Level: Complex

Time required: 18-20 hours

Resources Required:

1. Framing square
2. 3 nails or screws
3. Circular saw and hand saw
4. 2 x 6 lumber for treads
5. Masking tape
6. Joist hangers to attach the stairs to the deck.
7. 2 x 12 for stringers
8. Tape measure

Instructions:

1. Take the exact measurements

The exact vertical distance needs to be calculated. The top of the concrete wall and the top of the deck will give you the exact distance. One measurement needs to be taken with the help of a measuring tape 8’ divided 2×4 resting one end of the tape to the deck. Also measure the bottom 2×4 making the overall size of the staircase 64”.

2. Calculate the overall run of the staircase

First, you need to decide the number of steps you would want in your stairs. The overall size of the staircase that is 64” needs to be divided by 7.25” which is the typical size of a step riser. This will sum up to about 9 step risers for your staircase. Always calculate one step less than a riser as one step is always on the deck or the concrete pad. The average width of a typical step is 10.5” and multiplying it with 8 steps give you 84” which will give you an overall run of 84”. By dividing the overall 64” run with 9 risers gives you an approximate answer of 7.1/8. Hence approximately each riser will be 7.1/8”.

3. A framing square is required for a layout

To make a framing square you need to measure it with a masking tape. The framing square measurements should have long leg that is 10.5” and the short leg which is 7.1/8”. Outline one of the 2×12’ work boards. Start lining up the masking tape towards the end of the board. Mark the outside edge of the tape once the square is in position. Cut out the work board with a circular saw. For a final finish cutting, use a hand saw to cut the bottom board neatly. The other stringer needs to be cut in the same way.

4. Fix the staircase and attach it to the deck

The top ends of stringers need to be secured by nailing a sheet of plywood. Four nails per stringer is sufficient. The 2×6 board needs to be nailed between the bottoms of the outside stringer. Position the staircase to the deck making sure that the stringers and the risers are properly fixed. The 2×6 board needs to be fixed to the concrete pad with the help of a 3’ nail.

5. Put the treads in place

Cut the 2×6 board into two ensuring that you cut them in a square shape. Starting from the bottom, place them on the treads and nail them with 3’ deck nails. At the center stringers, the 3” deck nails need to be fixed. Continue till all the treads are fixed. The last thing you need to do is install a railing to avoid accidents.

Frequently asked questions:

What wood should be used to build a staircase so that it looks more beautiful and strong at the same time?

Teak wood is one of the strongest wood and also give a lovely look to your staircase. You can preferably use this wood.

Quick Tips:

1. Before you start cutting the staircase, layout need to be done to avoid confusion and have work done smoothly.
2. Cut every part to be fit at one time.
3. Fit the treads tightly and firmly.

Things To Watch Out For:

Wear glove to ensure security while working on building the staircase.

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