When building a staircase, few tasks are as crucial or as confusing and as figuring out how to cut stair stringers. These essential components form the backbone of your staircase, so precision and proper technique are critical.
If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from understanding what stair stringers are to designing, cutting, and even optimising your workflow for improved results.
What is a stair stringer?
Before learning how to cut stair stringers, it’s essential to understand what they are. A stair stringer, also referred to as a stringer or stringboard, is the main support structure for a staircase. It holds the stair treads (horizontal steps) and risers (vertical boards) securely in place.
There are two primary types of stair stringers:
- Closed stringers: also known as wall stringers, these hide the edges of the treads and risers, creating a sleek, enclosed look; closed stringers are commonly used for stairs that run along a wall
- Cut stringers: these expose the edges of the treads and risers, giving the staircase a more decorative and open appearance; cut stringers are popular in more visible staircases or those emphasising design aesthetics
Designing a stair stringer
Designing the stringer is a critical step in the staircase-building process, as it determines how the structure will fit into the overall layout of your project. When designing a stringer, consider the following:
Attaching the stringer to the landing
There are two main options:
- Direct attachment to the rim joist: this approach aligns the top step with the landing for a seamless transition
- Attachment to the underside of the landing: in this setup, the landing itself serves as the top step ; this requires the stringers to extend slightly longer
This decision impacts the overall length of the stringers and how they’ll be positioned during installation.
Size of stair risers and treads
The size of the risers and treads not only defines the staircase’s comfort and usability but also determines the angles and cuts required on the stringer. It’s essential to ensure these dimensions comply with building codes for safety and functionality.
Marking the stringer
Accurate marking is vital when preparing to cut stair stringers. Use a framing square fitted with stair gauges to quickly and consistently mark the risers and treads.
Follow this procedure:
- Attach one stair gauge to the square’s tongue for the riser height
- Attach the second gauge to the square’s body for the tread depth
- Align the gauges with the edge of the board and mark the first step’s riser and tread
- Repeat this process for all steps
Proper marking ensures precise cuts, which is crucial for creating a stable and safe staircase.
Cutting stair stringers
Now that your stringer is marked, it’s time to cut it. Cutting stair stringers requires care and the right tools to ensure accuracy and structural integrity.
Steps for cutting stair stringers (manually)
- Initial cuts: use a circular saw to cut along the marked lines for each step; be careful not to cut beyond the lines to maintain the integrity of the stringer
- Finishing the cuts: for corners and tight spots, finish the cuts using a jigsaw or handsaw to ensure precision
- Trimming the bottom edge: cut the bottom of the stringer to account for the tread thickness, ensuring the stringer sits flush on the floor
Creating Templates
After cutting the first stringer, use it as a template for the remaining ones. This method saves time, ensures uniformity, and reduces the risk of errors.
Installation
Once all stringers are cut, secure them into place. Use screws to attach the stringers to the framing, and check the level of each step using a spirit level. If adjustments are needed, use a block plane to smooth out inconsistencies.
Cutting stringers with CNC machinery
Manufacturing stair stringers can be automated using CNC machinery, achieving consistent and repetitive precision with minimal manual effort. Utilizing software, such as StairDesigner, allows for drafting stairs and exporting components into machining files.
Different CNC machines allow for various possibilities of CNC manufacturing, a simple example is seen below, a 3-axis flatbed CNC machine manufacturing straight stringboards using only face machining.
4/5 axis CNC machines allow for more complex manufacturing processes. The below image showcases a straight stringboard with a centered tenon that has been cut on a part by part pod and rail CNC machine.
These CNC machines enable more complex 3D shapes with intricate profiling, shaping and bevelling. Their flexibility often allows for larger components and makes them more suitable for stair production.
Simplifying the process with StairDesigner
For professionals and frequent builders, manually designing and cutting stair stringers can be time-consuming and labour-intensive. That’s where professional tools like our 3D stair calculator can revolutionise your workflow.
What is StairDesigner?
StairDesigner is a powerful staircase design software that eliminates much of the manual labour involved in staircase construction. The program automates calculations for risers, treads, and stringers, ensuring precision and saving you hours compared to traditional methods.
Key benefits of StairDesigner
- 3D visualization: view your staircase in 3D to ensure the design meets your expectations before cutting materials
- Cutting stair stringers with precision: the software generates detailed plans and cut lists, so you can easily cut closed stringers or cut stringers with confidence
- Time-saving features: automate complex calculations for riser height, tread depth, and stringer length
- Parametric: enables you to adjust the design dimensions, automatically recalculating all elements to fit seamlessly
Wood Designer Premium Support:
If you prefer to cut the pieces yourself, take advantage of our StairFile processing service. With this service, you can design your staircase in StairDesigner, and we’ll process the file and send you a detailed cut list and plans. This ensures professional results with minimal effort.
For professionals looking to take their woodworking business to the next level, StairDesigner offers:
- A full version for professional use
- One-to-one training to help you master the software and improve your craftsmanship
Transform your stair manufacturing process today
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast learning how to cut a stair stringer or a professional striving to streamline your operations, StairDesigner is a great solution.
With its ability to design, calculate, and optimise your staircase projects, you’ll save time, reduce errors, and elevate the quality of your work.
Click here to download and test StairDesigner
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