One of the first steps you must take when preparing to build a set of indoor or outdoor stairs is to calculate the rise and run for the stairs, so you will know exactly what length of stringer you will need to get started. Once you know the stringer, you can count the number of tread pieces, how long the railing needs to be and factor in other stair parts you might need for your project like the newel posts. Keep reading to learn more about how to calculate the rise and run for stairs.

How to Calculate Rise and Run for Stairs:

Fortunately, you don’t have to be a math whiz to figure out this calculation, although there are the old-fashioned ways to do the calculations mentally or with pencil and paper. However, there are dozens of online stair calculator tools that can help you figure out your rise and run for the stairs. Knowing this information is absolutely necessary in order to build a set of stairs. Buying pre-cut stair stringers only works if your stringer length needed just happens to line up with a stringer that is already cut and available for purchase. However, in most cases, you’ll have to get the stair stringers cut per your specifications.

Using an online stair rise and run calculator is easy and simple, it does require you to take some measurements. Make sure you have an accurate tape measure or other tools for measuring when beginning this step. Many online stair calculators can give you both the rise and run, stair stringer length and stair rail angle. All of these factors have to be considered as you prepare for building your wood stairs.

Information Needed to Calculate Stair Rise and Run:

• Total Rise
• Target Step Height
• Tread Thickness
• Tread Depth
• If Stringer Mount Type is Standard or Flush

Some online stair calculators have both an automatic version as well as a manual version. The automatic is designed to help you compute the math if you’re building stairs on the already level ground or on a concrete slab. If you are building your stairs indoor, this should be the best option. Alternatively, a manual stair calculator can be used to calculate the math and numbers if you’re building your stairs on uneven ground or if the stairs you’re building are a non-standard size.

Calculating the rise and run for stairs should not be too intimidating, even for those who are new to the construction of wood stairs. Please give us a call if you have any questions or need additional resources in learning how to calculate rise and run for stairs.

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