Calculate and Layout Staircase Dimensions — Sketch the Staircase Layout
Part of project
How to Measure and Plan Treads for a Split-Level Staircase · Step 7 of 8
In this video
Begin by understanding the building code requirements for head clearance (e.g., 81 inches clear). Measure the total rise (vertical height from the starting floor to the upper floor) and the total run (horizontal length available for the staircase, including the landing). Based on these measurements, calculate the number of steps required, aiming for a comfortable and code-compliant rise (e.g., 8 inches) and run (e.g., 10 inches). Create a 'story pole' from a piece of lumber by marking the exact height of each finished step, taking into account the thickness of the sub-tread and the finished tread. This story pole will be used to transfer these precise dimensions to the stringer lumber.
Calculate and Layout Staircase Dimensions — Sketch the Staircase Layout
Part of project
How to Measure and Plan Treads for a Split-Level Staircase · Step 7 of 8
In this video
Begin by understanding the building code requirements for head clearance (e.g., 81 inches clear). Measure the total rise (vertical height from the starting floor to the upper floor) and the total run (horizontal length available for the staircase, including the landing). Based on these measurements, calculate the number of steps required, aiming for a comfortable and code-compliant rise (e.g., 8 inches) and run (e.g., 10 inches). Create a 'story pole' from a piece of lumber by marking the exact height of each finished step, taking into account the thickness of the sub-tread and the finished tread. This story pole will be used to transfer these precise dimensions to the stringer lumber.