Stair Stringer Spacing

8 steps x 10 inches 80 inches fig 4.
Stair stringer spacing. For a stairway wider than 36 inches you will need four spacers laid out on center. Optional continuous 2x4 reinforcement 2 on one side flush to bottom edge. Discrepancy is allowed the reason for the codes. However local residential codes may vary slightly so check the building codes before building a staircase.
If the stair treads are set into grooves routed into the stringer in a 2x stringer the groove depth should be 1 2 the thickness of the stringer typically 3 4 and additional support by cleats or by gluing and end screwing through the stringer sides into the treads is good practice. Always read the composite decking installation instructions for stair treads before building your stairs. Nail with 10d 0 128 x 3 nails at 12 on center staggered. 311 7 4 3 stair tread nosing must extend out to a maximum of 1 past front of riser unless the tread is 11 or larger just like above 3 8 max.
To calculate the run of the stairs the number of steps is multiplied with the desired width of the tread. Quite simply it is because it is what feels normal to most individuals and helps eliminate tripping hazards. Stringers should be spaced no more than 36 inches apart from each other for maximum stair support according to the international association of certified home inspectors. The building codes laid out in the irc recommend that each step should have a minimum width of 10 inches in order to provide secure footing.
The maximum 18 inch spacing presumes treads of 5 4 inch wood decking or 2 by stock. Cut stringers can be spaced no more than 18 inches on center so a 3 foot wide staircase needs three stringers and a set of slightly wider stairs say 3 feet 6 inches needs four stringers. Consult designer for attachment details for live loads greater than 40 psf. Some composite materials and lower grade 5 4 wood decking may require you to reduce the stringer spacing to 10 on center.