Stringer Layout with a Story Pole & a Calculator!

Framing stock is a bad choice for a stair template; it is heavy, thick, and hard to trace accurate lines from. Use 1x stock and a calculator to avoid cumulative error.

This video from This is Carpentry, featuring our friend Gary Katz, teaches Jed Dixon's stair stringer layout method to avoid cumulative error and complicated arithmetic when marking and cutting stair stringers: use a calculator and make a template.

Video transcript:

I like using a template when working with stringers. Often, with materials like PVC decking, stringers may need to be placed on 10-inch centers. Depending on the staircase, you could require 6, 8, or even 10 stringers. Using a dedicated piece of stock as a template makes the process more efficient.

If you use an inch-and-a-half stock, it can be challenging to draw straight, clean lines for every rise and run. Instead, a piece of one-by lumber with sharp edges simplifies the task. Many finish carpenters also use ripped plywood as templates. For this project, I’m using Windsor One because the whiteboard provides excellent contrast with pencil lines.

Tools and techniques for framing square setup

I’ll be using a framing square for this process. A framing square is essentially a gauge block, but here, I'll use it as a pattern. To accurately place each riser, I'll rely on a calculator rather than stepping off increments with the square.

To begin, I adjust my stair gauges. Some prefer to attach a 1x2 or 1x4 across the square to slide it along easily. Regardless of your method, precise layout of the framing square is essential.

Setup tip: Position the square with exactly 10 inches on the blade at the top edge of the template. For the tongue, set it to your riser measurement (e.g., 6 13/16 inches).
Check increment marks: Many framing squares use sixteenths of an inch on most edges, but some use tenths on one side. Ensure consistency by verifying these increments.

For this demonstration, I’m using a specific framing square that’s more camera-friendly, though I appreciate the durability and features of the titanium models from companies like Martinez Tools.

Marking risers and preventing cumulative error

Step 1: Marking risers

With the stair gauges adjusted, I’ll mark the first riser at the bottom of the stringer. Initially, I’ll extend the first line using the outside of the tongue. For subsequent marks, I’ll switch to the inside edge of the square to ensure consistent alignment.

To avoid cumulative error, I’ll calculate each riser position using a calculator. If you rely on stepping off increments manually, small inaccuracies can add up.

Step 2: Calculator

Using the calculator, I apply the Pythagorean theorem. While we know the rise and run, the calculator simplifies diagonal calculations:

Enter the rise: Divide the overall rise (e.g., 47 7/8 inches) by the number of steps (e.g., 7) to get the riser height (e.g., 6 13/16 inches).
Enter the run: Input the 10-inch run.
Calculate the diagonal: Press the diagonal button to determine the hypotenuse (e.g., 12 1/8 inches).

To ensure precision:

Step off each measurement by adding the hypotenuse incrementally.
Hook a tape measure at a fixed point and mark each calculated diagonal length.

For example:

First riser: 12 1/8 inches
Second riser: 24 1/4 inches
Third riser: 36 3/8 inches, and so on.

Step 3: Bottom detailing

The bottom layout starts with aligning the story pole’s markings for the decking, rough cut, brick, and concrete.

Use the story pole as a reference to mark the concrete’s top level.
Extend the line using a straight edge, such as aluminum, for accuracy.
Create a notch for a pressure-treated 2x cleat at the bottom of the stringer. This cleat secures the stringer, preventing slippage.

Step 4: Top detailing

At the top, the stringer must align precisely with the rim joist and the newel post.

Mark the rim joist height: Measure 5 1/2 inches down from the rim joist and mark.
Define the notch: Include the dimensions for the 2x ledger and newel post to create the necessary notches.

Ensure the stringer’s top fits snugly against the rim joist and ledger for consistent tread alignment across the staircase.

Assembling the template and ensuring precision

With the template complete, you can trace and cut your stringers. By avoiding cumulative error through precise diagonal measurements, your stringers will align perfectly with no deviations in tread height or riser spacing.

Using a dedicated template also eliminates the need to switch tools mid-process. For example, cutting straight lines with a circular saw is more efficient than alternating with a jigsaw. Align your cuts to ensure a flawless fit, flush against the rim joist

Why a template ensures better results

Using a template offers several advantages compared to laying out directly on your stringers:

Accuracy: With a pre-cut template, each stringer will have consistent riser heights and tread depths, eliminating variations.
Efficiency: Cutting directly along a template saves time and reduces the need to switch tools.
Error reduction: By avoiding cumulative errors during layout, you ensure the final staircase is level, square, and visually flawless.

When you align the template with the rim joist and concrete base, the stringers naturally fit, ensuring uniform installation across the structure.

Finishing the project: fitting stringers and cleats

Once your stringers are cut using the template:

Position the stringers: Lift each one until the notch aligns with the rim joist and kisses snugly against its underside. This ensures all treads are level.
Install cleats: Secure 2x pressure-treated cleats to the concrete. Notch the bottoms of the stringers to fit over the cleats, locking them into position.

By taking these steps, the structure becomes stable and long-lasting, with all parts fitting precisely as planned.

Template benefits for professionals and DIYers

For professionals, a template simplifies workflow, reducing errors and increasing output quality. For DIYers, it provides a structured approach, ensuring professional-level results without requiring advanced skills.

Whether constructing a basic staircase or tackling a complex design, the principles outlined here—using templates, avoiding cumulative errors, and aligning accurately—will set you up for success.