How to Build Wooden Stairs and Steps

Create the Stringers

• 1

  Place a 2-by-6-inch board on top of the deck or porch at the edge where the stairs are to begin. Measure from the top edge of the board out to the ground at the intended stair landing. This is the total distance for the stringers.

• 2

  Divide your measurement by seven inches to determine the number of stairs you need. Seven inches is the standard rise for stairs. For example, if the total distance is 56 inches, the total number of stairs you need is 8.

• 3

  Mark a 2-by-12-inch board using a framing square. Cut a 45 degree angle at the end of the board. This allows for attachment when completed. At the edge of the angle, begin marking the risers and footings on the board. Place a piece of tape at the 7-inch mark on the left of the framing square and the 10-inch mark on the right. Align the tape marks at the edge of the 2-by-12 and mark around the square with a pencil. Repeat the action down the board, one less time than the amount of needed squares. It will resemble pyramids going down the edge of the board.

• 4

  Use a circular saw to cut along the marked lines. Cut with the line to the angle point, then use a hand saw to remove the small corner point. After the last marked cut, create a 45 degree angle at the end of the board. This creates the landing for the stringers.

• 5

  Use the first stringer as a pattern to create additional stringers. The amount needed depends on the width of the stairs. Place a stringer approximately every three feet to provide proper support for the steps.

Attach the Stairs

• 6

  Measure seven inches down from the edge of the deck or porch and mark. Space the stringers evenly across the intended area with the 45 degree angle flush with the wall and hold in place with L-brackets. Use a drill to drive the screws into the deck or porch and into the side of the stringer to hold in place.

• 7

  Nail the risers in place. Cut 2-inch-thick boards to five inches wide and the length of the stairs. Place the board at the top of the rise, leaving a two-inch opening at the bottom. Use four-inch nails to attach the boards to the stringers. Place a nail at the top and the bottom of the board at each stringer.

• 8

  Attach the steps. Use two 2-by-6 boards cut to the width of the stairs for each step. Slide the rear board under the riser. Nail to the stringers using four-inch nails. You will have a two-inch overhang for each step.