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What Are the Best Tips for Building DIY Stairs?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

Building DIY stairs is usually not a difficult task, but special care must be taken to prepare for the project ahead of time by taking careful measurements and choosing the right materials. The rise and run of the staircase will need to be determined ahead of time; this will dictate the length and height of the staircase. Formulas for determining the rise and run can easily be found by doing an Internet search; make sure to take these measurements and check them again before buying any materials for the DIY stairs.

Once the rise and run have been determined, it's time to choose the best materials for the job. DIY stairs can be made from a variety of materials to suit many needs. Outdoor stairs will require different materials than indoor stairs, so start by determining where the staircase will be. If the DIY stairs will be anywhere that moisture can build up, such as in a damp basement, pressure-treated wood will be necessary. Outdoor wood staircases should also be made from pressure-treated wood, or from woods that are naturally resistant to water damage, such as cedar or teak. The project budget may dictate which woods are most appropriate for a particular space as well.

Building a DIY staircase requires knowing the run and rise of the staircase.
Building a DIY staircase requires knowing the run and rise of the staircase.

Remember to consider railings when building DIY stairs. For safety and stability, railings should almost always be present along a stairway, thereby preventing falls. Railings should be built at a comfortable level for an average size adult, and they should be secured properly into wall studs or into the stairway stringers using vertical posts. In either case, the railing must be stable and made from a material that can withstand the pressure or weight from a fully grown adult. An unstable railing is less safe than no railing at all, so it is important to make sure this component is properly secured.

Applying a varnish can keep stairs looking brand new.
Applying a varnish can keep stairs looking brand new.

Consider the safety of each tread once the entire staircase is built. It is sometimes possible to increase the grip of a tread by affixing friction materials, or by using textured paints specifically designed for porches and decks. This is a good idea if moisture will get on the stairway, or if ice is likely to build up at any point. Adding stains, varnishes, or water-resistant treatments is also a good idea, especially for outdoor staircases that will regularly be exposed to the elements and foot traffic.

Discussion Comments

Raynbow

Not only do railings make staircases safer, but in some states, they are required by insurers. You should check with your insurance company about railing requirement before building DIY stairs, and be prepared to include them in your project.

Ocelot60

If you are building DIY stairs in an outdoor area, concrete is the best material to use. Wood will deteriorate over time, and metal will rust. Just be sure that you understand how to build stairs from concrete before you start this project. Most hardware or home improvement store reps will be able to advise you on the best way to build these steps.

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    • Building a DIY staircase requires knowing the run and rise of the staircase.
      By: wittybear
      Building a DIY staircase requires knowing the run and rise of the staircase.
    • Applying a varnish can keep stairs looking brand new.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Applying a varnish can keep stairs looking brand new.