How to Cut Stair Skirts

Measure the distance between the bottom portion of the top of the stairs and the bottom of the bottom step with a measuring tape. Hold the measuring tape at the same angle at which the staircase is set. Use an angle measuring tool to match the angle.

Cut a wood board to the same length using a table saw. Use the same type of wood as the rest of the staircase.

Mark a cut line on the bottom of the skirtboard so the front edge forms a right angle with the bottom of the staircase. Measure the right angle, which is 90 degrees, using a measuring tool. Repeat with the top of the skirtboard and the top of the staircase.

Cut the angles with a table saw.

Measure the angle of the bottom of each step with an angle measuring tool. The top of the skirtboard needs to fit flush against the underside of the stairs, so cut notches into the board for each step. Ideally, each angle should measure 90 degrees, but don’t assume this to be true.

Mark the angles for each step on the skirtboard with a pencil. Use the angle measuring tool to mark accurate angles.

Cut the marked angles with a miter saw. These notches are pressed against the underside of the stairs so the skirtboard sits flush against the staircase.