When you’re setting up stairs in or near your house, stringers offer necessary support for treads. Hence, when you plan to install stringers, you have to be precise with the measurements. You also have to follow certain steps for the installation. So, in this article, we have covered the various steps you can consider to install stair stringers.
Steps to Install Stringers for Stairs
Setting up stair stringers is the main part of building stairs. These offer a framework for the treads and risers. But, before you proceed any further, you need to have some tools and materials. Among the tools, you need a framing square, a circular saw, screwdriver, and a tape. You will also need a level and a drill before you commence. Additionally, you will also need wooden planks for the treads and the risers. Let’s check the procedure for creating the stringers.
- Measure The Total Rise: When you’re measuring the total rise, it’s equal to the height from one level to the other. This refers to the distance between the floor level and the landing area.
- Find Out The Height Of Every Step: Now, you have to determine the height of the steps. The height is usually according to specific standards. Usually, it’s equal to 7 inches or 18 cm. But, you should take care of the headroom before setting the rise or height. Moreover, you should be able to figure out the height properly in case you’re creating stringers for scaffold stairs.
- Calculate The Number Of Steps: Next, you have to find out the number of steps. This can be done by dividing the total rise with the individual height of the step. However, it will be one less than the risers for the treads.
- Find Out The Run Per Stair: To find out the run per stair, you have to measure the horizontal distance between the topmost and bottom-most part of the stairs. But, you must ensure that the stairs are inclined at an angle of 40 degrees. The run is often equal to 10 inches for each step. This ensures comfort whenever people are ascending or descending the stairs. Later, you must find the stringer’s length with a calculator. Inaccurate calculations can lead to problems when you are about to install stair stringers.
- Mark The Lines: After the calculations, you initially have to lay the first stair. At those instances, you have to place the framing square on a thick plank. But, before drawing faint lines, make sure the short end denotes the rise measurement. Conversely, the run measurement should be drawn on the long end.
- Continue Marking The Cuts: Now that you have figured out the first layout, move the framing square along the plank’s length. Moreover, you have to continue marking the lines on the board. A bit later, you have cut along the lines using a circular saw. While you’re cutting, ensure that the cuts are clean. These will offer better support from the treads.
- Place The Stringers Properly: At this stage, you have to place the top of the stringer against the landing region. You will also have to position the stringer so that it rests at the floor or ground level. Screws must also be used to secure the stringer after it has been placed. But, to ensure stability, you might have to adjust the floor level.
- Install Risers And Treads: Towards the end, you have to cut the risers properly. As you place the risers vertically towards the stringer’s back edge, make sure that they are at the same level. Besides, you have to also place the treads horizontally over the stringers.
After you install stair stringers, you have to check for stability. To determine stability, try climbing or descending the steps. In case the stairs need handrails, then you should install them right away. However, the railings must comply with building requirements before continuing.
Scaffolds Supply for Stairs
Scaffolds Supply is always proud of offering stairs that are quite safe to use. While you start using the stairs, you can certainly access the working areas with efficiency. These stairs are sure to last for a long time because they are designed from high-quality steel.
Conclusion
Finally, before cutting the wooden boards, you should check the measurements again. For better strength, you also need to use some adhesive. In case you’re installing the stringer for the first time, then seek assistance from a professional. Moreover, it’s important to wear gloves and goggles.This can prevent injuries when you plan to install stair stringers.