How to cut stair stringers for a deck?
If you have a heavily-used staircase, chances are you’ll want to cut up your existing stringers to make way for new treads. If you’re already working on your deck, it’s probably best to hire a contractor to do this work for you. But if you’re planning to DIY your deck project, here’s how to cut stair stringers for a deck yourself.
How to cut stair stringers for a platform deck?
If you want a platform deck on your new home or remodel, you’ll need to cut some stringers. This type of decking is often 3-1/2 to 4 inches tall and is installed horizontally on the floor joists. The stringers are made from two pieces of 2-1/2-in. x 6-in. x 8-in. wood. There’s a gap between the two stringers, so when you lay the deck boards on
How to cut a tread stringer for a deck?
The tread stringer is the section of the stringer beneath the tread. If you don’t have access to a circular saw, you can still cut these tread stringers with a jigsaw. But this will take much longer. To cut the tread stringer, you should mark it out on the floor and use a circular saw to cut along that line.
How to cut staircase stringers for a deck trim?
Stair stringers are cut slightly longer than the finished height of your staircase to account for the extra length of the treads and risers. The finished length of your stringers should be equal to the sum of the leg and tread height, plus the overhang of the handrail and any finish trim (if applicable). To cut the stringers to length, first mark their location on the floor joists and mark the cut on the stringer itself. Use a marking gauge to transfer the cut
How to cut a stair stringer for a deck?
A stair stringer on a deck is like a foundation for your stairs. It’s usually made of plywood, exterior grade lumber, or OSB. The stringer connects floor joists to the wall framing. If you don’t have a traditional step with the treads on top, you’ll need a stringer at each level. A stair stringer is cut to length using a table saw or circular saw. You can also buy them precut.