How to Measure for Stair Stringers
Below you will find a quick step-by-step procedure on how to determine the measurements for your stair stringers. All you need is a measuring tape and the outline for your stairway to begin.
Step 1 - Decide on the Stairs
Before you can measure for the stair stringers, you need to plan out your stairs. Make the following calculations:
- The overall height from top to bottom of your stairway.
- The length of your stair way. So measure from the top most part of your stair way and trace an imaginary line to the bottom most step.
Step 2 - Determine Steps and Step Configuration
Determine the number of steps you will use for your stairway. Make sure that you use a number of steps that will be comfortable for you to walk up. Take measurements of your step width
Step 3 - Putting It All Together
You may ask why you are taking the measurements and figuring out the number of steps for your stairway. Simple answer: The stringers ultimate size is determined by the following factors:
- The total length of your stairway (also referred to as the run)
- The width of the stairs
Now, you will need to pick your stringer and the number of stringers you will use. Your stringer length will be 1 to 2 feet longer than your overall length of the stairway.
You will also need to add a second stringer if your stairs are wider than 36 inches.
