How To Build Stairs

Stairs & Railings

Password Area Coverage

If you haven't already read our free information on stair building, please check out our Stairs & Rails section under the "How-To" menu. Otherwise, below is a detailed list of additional topics and features available in the Stairs and Railings section of the BestDeckSite Password Area. For a complete outline of all the sections and topics covered see the Password Coverage Page. If you want the best gazebo and deck building information, Get A Password Today.

Stair & Railing Calculators
There is no need to struggle through the math needed to layout stairs and railings with BestDeckSite's Stair & Railing Calculators.
Getting The Posts To Work Together
What types of railing styles are stronger based upon how well they transfer loads to neighboring posts.
Reinforcing The Rim Joists
How to meet the IBC 200-pound load requirement and what this means in terms of additional reinforcing required at the band/rim joists.
Post Spacing & Notching
How much spacing is too much between neighboring posts and how much you're allowed to notch posts without affecting strength.
Decorative Touches
A short list of ideas to make your railings look good.
Guardrail Examples
Numerous examples for you to look over as you create the railing design of your dream deck and gazebo.
Stair, Landing, & Railing Building Codes
All about the many building codes related to stairs and guardrails and how to avoid having to redo your hard work.
Measuring Total Rise & Run
How to correctly measure these two critical dimensions when the ground isn't perfectly level.
Layout & Cutting Stringers
Step-by-step directions starting with selecting the correct size of stringer lumber to accurately marking and cutting stringers.
Three Ways To Attach Stringers
Three options for securely attaching the top of the stairs to your deck or gazebo.
Reinforcing The Floor Framing
For longer stair runs, the floor framing where the stairs attach needs to be reinforced. Here's how to do it right.
Stair Assembly
How to put together your stairs including additional reinforcing to make them extra strong.
Stair Landings
For longer stair runs, code requires an intermediate landing. Learn how to make a landing and get the railings to work out.
Box & Flared Stairs
Simple box stair construction and stairs that are wider at the base than at the top.