DIY Prefabricated Staircase

Staircases can be one of the trickiest parts of a new construction or renovation project, as they must meet safety and aesthetic criteria. Skilled carpenters can build stairs from scratch, but many people find assembling prefabricated parts simpler and more expedient. Once you've done the initial measuring, you can order a kit that includes instructions and all the necessary materials, cut and ready to go. Preparation and some basic tools make for a straightforward job.

Measuring tape
Pencil
Paper
Local building code information
Prefabricated staircase kit
Wooden spacers the thickness of drywall or plaster (usually 4 inches or 6 inches)
Level
Box of 2 1/2-inch common nails
Box of 2 1/2-inch finishing nails
Box of 3 1/2-inch or 4-inch spikes
Hammer
2-inch by 4-inch support posts
Shims

Instructions

- 1
  
  The nose hangs over the rise of each step.
  
  Take and record measurements for ordering a prefabricated staircase kit. These include the total rise (from the top of the finished first floor to the top of the finished second floor), all rough openings and landings, the joists at the top of each stair, and the subfloor thickness and finished floor thickness on both the upper and lower levels. Indicate stair width and nosing length. Check your intended staircase measurements against local building codes before ordering.
- 2
  
  Stairs are attached before the walls are finished.
  
  Nail spacers to the studs as a placeholder for plaster or drywall. Do this at the top and bottom of the staircase space.
- 3
  
  Adjust for levelness as needed.
  
  Follow the manufacturer's instructions for attaching the staircase, using support posts and shims to make each step as level as possible. Attach the top of the staircase before attaching the bottom, checking levelness as you go.

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