QA

Question: How To Build Deck Stringers

Can I use 2×10 for stringers?

It is acceptable and within building code guidelines to use either 2×10 or 2×12 dimensional lumber to create a set of stairs; however, a stair stringer should not be less than 3.5 inches wide at its narrowest point to provide adequate strength for the load the stairs will be supporting.

What is the formula for stringers?

There are several formulas for calculating the ratio between rise and run; the simplest is Rise + Run = 17 to 18 inches. Using a target run of 10 inches, the rise/run ratio is well within the “safe and comfortable” formula for this stair: 7 5/8 + 10 = 17 5/8 (Step 6).

How do I make my own Stringer?

How to Build Stair Stringers Step 1: Set Stair Measurement on Square. Step 2: Mark the Top Cutting Line. Step 3: Mark the Cutting Line. Step 4: Finish Cut With a Jigsaw. Step 5: Trace an Open Stringer. Step 6: Attach Stair Angles. Step 7: Attach Stairs From Underside.

How many steps are in a 4 foot deck?

A four-foot high deck can have a range between 6 and 8 steps.

How long should a 2×12 stringer be?

cut stringers. The two most common cut-stringer defects that I see are overspanning and overcutting. The minimum recommended size for a deck stair stringer is 2×12, which has a maximum recommended unsupported span of 6 feet.

How many steps do I need for my deck?

To determine the rise and run of the steps, measure the distance from the floor of the deck to the ground and divide that number by 7.5. The result will be the number of steps the staircase will need (e.g., deck is 112″ from the ground; 112/7.5 = 14.93. Round up to get 15 steps).

What size lumber is used for stair stringers?

The stair stringers are essentially the backbone of your staircase. Always use straight, high-quality, pressure-treated 2x12s for stair stringers. If you are planning on resting the stringer on the ground, make sure the wood has .

How high is a 2 step Stringer?

Size:2 In. Step stringers are cut for 2″ X 12″ Treads, and have a 7″ Rise.

How tall is a 5 step Stringer?

Stair Stringer-5 step Redwood (Common: 60 in. x 11 in.; Actual: 1.5 in.

Do deck stair stringers need support?

To help resist both vertical and lateral loads, stringers require proper support and attachment at these bearing points. Without proper support, vertical loads (gravity) can pull the stringers down from their bearing points, while lateral (horizontal) loads can pull the stringers away from their bearing points.

How far apart should stair stringers be?

Deck stairs are typically made from 2 x 12 stringers spaced about 12 to 16 inches apart. They rest on a solid foundation and are attached to the deck with hangers. They have risers (also called toe kicks), treads and railings. The stairs should be at least 36 inches wide.

How far apart should deck joists be?

Deck joists are typically spaced either every 12 inches or 16 inches on center. The maximum joist spacing you can use will depend on the size and allowable span of your joists.

What is the standard rise and run for deck stairs?

The stair treads should be at least 36 inches wide. Despite these minimum requirements, we recommend that stairs should be at least 48 inches wide so they don’t feel cramped. The maximum allowable stair rise is 7 3/4 inches, and the minimum stair rise is 4 inches.

How tall is a 4 step Stringer?

Mendocino Forest Products Stair Stringer 4 step Redwood (Common: 48 in. x 12 in.; Actual: 1.5 in. x 11 in.

What is code stairs?

Building Codes for Stairs Stairs must be at least 36″ wide with a minimum headroom of 6′ 8″ Risers must have a maximum height of 7 ¾” and open risers must be 4″ high or shorter. Each tread in a stair must have a minimum depth of 10″. Handrails should be 34″ to 38″ above stairs.

What is the throat of a stair stringer?

The throat depth is the net depth of a stringer once the steps are cut and removed, and it is measured from the step perpendicular to the bottom edge of the stringer.

Are stairs 45 degrees?

No matter what the measurements are, the angle between them (treads and risers) will be maintained at 90 degrees. For example, if you were crazy and built a staircase with a 12 inch tread and riser, then the angle of the stringer to the floor would be 45 degrees. A more common angle is about 37 degrees.

What is the best wood for stair stringers?

LP SolidStart Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL) and LP SolidStart Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) are ideal for Stair Stringers because they surpass traditional lumber products in length, strength and consistency.

How do you reinforce stringers?

One of the easiest methods of reinforcing your wood stair stringers is using 2×12 skirt boards along the outsides of your stairs. A skirt board is pretty much what it sounds like; triangular shaped wood that goes along the sides of your stair and hides all of the unsightly notched stringers and hardware.

Do deck stairs need footings?

SAFE, SUPPORTED STAIRS: Deck-stair construction varies, but the general requirements are consistent: proper footing support, and an adequate landing. Regardless of the stair run and number of treads, the stairway needs a footing at the bottom to support the stringers—they can’t just rest on the ground.

Can you use joist hangers for stair stringers?

Use joist hangers to fasten the blocking. Pros: Allows for the use of all types of stair stringer hangers. The top of the stair stringer acts as the first tread instead of being flush with the deck’s surface.

What is code for deck stairs?

Requirements for Deck Stairs Stair rails on decks should be between 34 inches and 38 inches high, measured vertically from the nose of the tread to the top of the rail. Treads must be at least 10 inches deep, measuring from front to back.