If you're planning to build a staircase, one of the most important things you need to know is how to cut stair stringers. Stringers are the supports that hold up the treads and risers of a staircase, and cutting them can be a bit tricky for a beginner. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps you need to take to cut stair stringers correctly.
Before you start cutting your stair stringers, you'll need a few tools and materials:
The first step in cutting stair stringers is to determine the rise and run of the staircase. The rise is the vertical distance from the top of one tread to the top of the next tread, while the run is the horizontal distance from the face of one riser to the face of the next riser.
You can calculate the rise and run by measuring the height of the area where the stairs will be installed, and dividing it by the number of treads you want. The typical rise is around 7 inches, and the run is usually around 10 inches.
Once you know the rise and run, you'll need to create a stringer template to trace onto your lumber. You can either use a pre-made template, or make your own by marking the rise and run measurements onto a piece of cardboard or plywood.
If you're making your own template, use a square to ensure that your lines are straight and your angles are accurate. Once you've marked your template, cut it out with a saw.
With your template in hand, it's time to trace it onto your lumber. Place the template on the top edge of your lumber, making sure that the corners are flush with the edges. Use a pencil to trace the outline of the template onto the lumber.
Once you've traced your template onto your lumber, it's time to cut the stringers. Use a saw to carefully cut along the lines you've traced. Make sure that your cuts are straight and accurate, as any errors can affect the stability and safety of your staircase.
If you're using a circular saw, adjust the blade depth so that it cuts just deep enough to go through the lumber, but not so deep that it cuts through the bottom. If you're using a jigsaw, make sure that it's set to the correct speed and blade type for the lumber you're cutting.
With your stringers cut, it's time to install them. Attach them to your stairs using screws or bolts, depending on the specifics of your project. Make sure that your stringers are securely fastened to the stairs, and use shims if necessary to ensure that they're level.
Once your stringers are installed, you can attach your treads and risers using screws or glue. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific materials to ensure that your stairs are safe and sturdy.
Q: How many stringers do I need for my staircase?
A: The number of stringers you need will depend on the width of your staircase. As a rule of thumb, you'll need at least one stringer for every 16 inches of width. For wider staircases, you may need additional stringers.
Q: Can I cut my stringers at an angle?
A: If your staircase is curved or has an unconventional design, you may need to cut your stringers at an angle. This can be challenging, and may require specialized tools and techniques. Consider consulting with a professional carpenter or contractor if you're not sure how to cut your stringers at an angle.
Q: How can I ensure that my stringers are level?
A: Use a level to ensure that your stringers are level before installing them. If necessary, use shims to adjust their height so that they're level. Once your stringers are installed, use a level to double-check that they're still level.
Q: What's the difference between a closed stringer and an open stringer?
A: A closed stringer is a stringer that has a solid piece of wood running along the side of the stairs, while an open stringer is a stringer that's cut out on the side of the stairs. Closed stringers are more traditional and provide additional support for the stairs, while open stringers are more modern and can make a staircase feel more open and airy. The choice between closed and open stringers will depend on your personal preference and the design of your staircase.