How to Build Log Stairs

Log stairs.
  • 4-6 hours
  • Advanced
  • 250-500
What You'll Need
Logs
Nails
Polish paint or varnish
Saw
Hammer
A nail gun
Framing square
Measuring tools: rulers, type measure, meter stick
2 steel brackets, 2 cleat brackets, and 1 spacer for each step
What You'll Need
Logs
Nails
Polish paint or varnish
Saw
Hammer
A nail gun
Framing square
Measuring tools: rulers, type measure, meter stick
2 steel brackets, 2 cleat brackets, and 1 spacer for each step

Log stairs are mostly seen in rural areas. One feature in your log house that you can use anywhere is the log staircase. Anyone will envy you if you have simple, but eye-catching log stairs. If you have a log house, then log stairs are a must-have. Although the log stair is quite simple, it is well-structured and well-polished. It has half logs for the steps and perfectly knitted into the home’s layout.

Building your own log stairs is a simple and satisfying process if you know how to build. By following the below step-by-step guide closely, you can build log stairs accurately in a short time. It is not a difficult task. It is possible to build your own log stairs. Nothing beats the satisfaction of building your own log stairs. To begin, the tools needed for the job are listed below.

Step 1 - Mill the Logs

Mill the logs complementing the measurements and layout of the house. Have two pairs of stringers, eight risers, mostly 6” high, and eight treads. Take note that the measurement is not considered here because we do not have the same house layout. Find the preferable measurements using the measuring tools.

Step 2 - Configure the Spacer

Make sure that the adjustable spacer has the exact tread combination and the appropriate rise.

Step 3 - Place the Steel Brackets

Lay down two stringers and join their sides. Place the steel brackets on the joined stringers and use the spacer to gap the distance between the brackets. Nail the brackets slightly in place and remove the spacers. Set the exact rise and tread using a framing square with the brackets attached. Nail the brackets firmly to the stringers, except the tail brackets until end cuts are created.

Step 4 - Cut the Stringer

Use the ruler to mark the ends of the stringers appropriately. Next, cut through the line at the ends of the stringer. Take notes to cut only three on the other end of the stringer forming a little semi-triangle. The purpose is to place one end of the stair right on the floor.

Step 5 - Nail the Risers

Attach all the risers properly between the two stringers paralleled and nail it. Risers are designed as the load-bearing support across the stair. The log stair is almost done. It is advisable to put a pair of cleat brackets to add strength to the log stair. Place all treads appropriately to the almost done log stair.

Step 6 - Install the Log Stair to the House

The log stair is ready to be installed in the house. Before installing it, it is recommended that you varnish the stairs.