Stair Calculator

Calculate risers, treads, and stringer length

Figure out the number of risers and treads, and the stringer length, for a staircase based on the total rise.

Calculate stair risers and treads. Typical comfortable rise is 7–7.75" and tread depth 10–11".

in
in
in

Risers

15

7.20" each

Treads

14

run 140 in

Stringer Length

176.8

inches

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter the total rise (the vertical height to climb) in inches.
  2. Enter the ideal rise per step.
  3. Enter the tread depth in inches.
  4. Review the number of risers, treads, and the stringer length.

Why Use This Calculator?

  • Laying out a set of stairs.
  • Checking that step heights feel comfortable.
  • Estimating stringer lumber length.

Real-World Examples

108 inches of total rise

At an ideal 7.5-inch rise, that's 15 risers with an actual rise of about 7.2 inches, 14 treads, and a stringer about 177 inches long.

Comfortable steps

A comfortable step rise is around 7 to 7.75 inches, with tread depth around 10–11 inches. The calculator divides the total rise by your ideal rise to find the number of steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a riser and a tread?

A riser is the vertical part of a step; a tread is the flat part you stand on. A staircase has one more riser than tread.

What rise is too high?

Anything over about 8 inches feels steep. Local building codes also set maximum rise and minimum tread — follow them.

Does this follow building code?

It uses standard comfortable dimensions, but codes vary. Always check your local residential building code for rise, run, and railing requirements.

Important Disclaimer

Layout estimates only. Stair dimensions, railings, and headroom must follow local building code. Stairs are safety-critical — verify with code and a qualified professional for permanent installations.

Privacy

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