Guides Articles
16 articles in this category.
Low Headroom on Stairs: How to Measure It and What Fixes Exist
Learn how to measure stair headroom the way building codes define it (80 inches from the nosing line), find the real cause of low clearance, and pick the right fix, from moving the header to rerouting ducts.
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Metal vs Wood Stair Stringers: Cost and Strength Compared
Wood or metal stringers? Compare strength, spans, installed costs, and durability to pick the right backbone for your staircase.
Read MoreHow to Refinish Wood Stair Treads: Sanding, Stain, and Topcoat
A worn staircase can look new again without replacing a single tread. This guide walks through the full refinish: inspection, sanding sequence, stain, and a durable topcoat that stands up to daily foot traffic.
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How to Install a Stair Handrail to Code (Height, Brackets, and Returns)
A half-day DIY guide to installing a graspable stair handrail at the correct 34 to 38 inch height, with solid bracket mounting, returned ends, and the IRC rules that matter.
Read MoreHow to Install Stair Balusters: Spacing, Fastening, and Code Checks
Balusters fill the open side of a stair and keep people from falling through the gap. Here is how to lay them out to the 4-inch sphere rule, cut them to the stair angle, fasten them top and bottom, and test the finished guard like an inspector.
Read MoreHow to Lay Out and Cut a Stair Stringer: Framing Square Method
Lay out accurate stair stringers with a framing square and stair gauges: marking each notch, cutting without overcuts, the bottom-riser deduction, test-fitting, and the code numbers to hit.
Read MoreHow to Frame a Stair Opening in a Floor: Sizing, Headers, and Code Checks
A stair opening that is too short creates a head-bump hazard and a failed inspection. Here is how to size the opening, frame it with doubled headers and trimmer joists per IRC R502.10, and verify the 6 ft 8 in headroom before you close anything up.
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How to Build Exterior Stairs That Meet Code
A contractor's complete guide to building code-compliant exterior stairs — from measuring total rise to cutting stringers, pouring footings, and installing railings that pass inspection.
How to Build Concrete Steps: A Complete Guide
Learn how to build concrete steps the right way, from forming and rebar to the correct concrete mix strength and cure time.
How to Calculate Stair Rise and Run (Step-by-Step Formula Guide)
Learn how to calculate stair rise and run with simple formulas, a worked example, and the code limits each number has to fall within.
