1. Stair Construction and Layout
Chapter 37
Stair Construction and Layout

2. Links for Chapter 37 Stair Terminology U-Shaped Straight Stairs
Exterior Stairs
Open Stairway
Related Web Sites

3. Stair Terminology
Run - Horizontal distance from end to end of the stairs
Rise - Vertical distance from top to bottom of the stairs
Tread - Horizontal step of the stairs
Riser - Vertical backing between the treads

4. Stair Terminology Stringer or stair jack - Support for the treads
Kick block or kicker - Used to keep bottom of stringer from sliding on the floor
Headroom - Vertical distance measured from tread nosing to wall or floor above stairs
Handrail - Railing to slide hand on
Guardrail - Railing between stair opening

5. Stair Terminology

6. Determining Rise and Run
Total Rise = Floor to ceiling height + floor joist + depth of floor covering
Number or risers = Divide total rise by maximum rise (7 3/4”)
Number of treads = Number of risers - 1
Total run = Tread width x number of treads

7. Straight Stair Layout Lay out Procedures
Lay out walls that may be near stairs
Lay out each floor level
Lay out one end of the stairs
Calculate and lay out total number of risers and treads
Lay out stringer and outline treads and risers

8. Straight Stair Layout

9. Straight Stair Layout

10. Straight Stair Layout Drawing Stairs with Finished-Quality Lines
Draw treads, risers, and stringers
Draw metal hangers
Draw kick block, support walls, and solid blocking
Draw 5/8” type X gypsum board
Draw floors or walls over the stairs
Draw handrail

11. Straight Stair Layout

12. Straight Stair Layout

13. Open Stairway Layout
An open stairway is the same as a straight enclosed stairway, except there are no risers
Improves venting and air-circulation
Creates an open feeling in the room

14. Open Stairway Layout

15. U-Shaped Layout
A landing is located midway up the stairs so the direction can change by 180°
Open or enclosed stairs may be used
Additional planning is necessary for accurate placement of the landing

16. U-Shaped Layout

17. U-Shaped Layout

18. Exterior Stairs Necessary in multi-level homes There is no riser
Tread is thicker than an interior tread
Decking material with nonskid surface should be used for construction
In concrete stairs, the risers are angled at 10° and not labeled

19. Exterior Stairs

20. Exterior Stairs

21. Related Web Sites Stairways, Inc. - www.stairwaysinc.com
Southern Staircase -
The Iron Shop -