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How Long Should My Stair Stringers Be?

When building deck stairs, you will need to determine the total height of the deck at the stairs. This is the change in elevation from the top of the deck to where you expect the stairs to land. Place a level straight out from the deck and measure to the ground or landing using a tape measure.

You also will need to establish the tread depth and riser height for each step using our Decks.com Stairs Calculator. The minimum tread depth is 10" and the maximum riser height is 7-3/4". The Stairs Calculator will also provide you the length of the 2x12 stair stringer you will need to use and the angle of the stairs.


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Learn how to build a set of cascading or flared stairs around an angled corner of a deck.

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Stair Stringer Length

Learn how to measure the height of your deck and use our Decks.com Stairs Calculator to determine your stair stringer lengths.

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Railing planters are an easy way to add some color to your deck without taking up space. Follow these simple steps and get started on your railing planters today.

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Explore Articles by Topic

Staircases

How Long Should My Stair Stringers Be?

When building deck stairs, you will need to determine the total height of the deck at the stairs. This is the change in elevation from the top of the deck to where you expect the stairs to land. Place a level straight out from the deck and measure to the ground or landing using a tape measure.

You also will need to establish the tread depth and riser height for each step using our Decks.com Stairs Calculator. The minimum tread depth is 10" and the maximum riser height is 7-3/4". The Stairs Calculator will also provide you the length of the 2x12 stair stringer you will need to use and the angle of the stairs.


Popular Stairs Articles
Staircases

How to Build Box Steps for Your Deck

Learn how to build a set of box platforms to act as stairs for a low deck. You don't need to cut stair stringers.

Staircases

Installing Stringers

Step-by-step instructions for installing 2x12 stair stringers.

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Support Long Stringers

Long stair stringers may need extra support from installing a brace at mid-span.

Next Step: Railings Articles
Deck Railing Types

Glass Rails

Installing glass rails will usually require you to build the rail frame first and take precise measurements to custom order the tempered safety glass...

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How to Build & Install an Outdoor Deck Gate

In this easy-to-follow guide, we explain the process of building a deck gate and installing it on your deck.

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