Chapter 18 Stair Construction
601
Trimmers and headers in the rough framing
should be doubled, especially when the span
is greater than 4′. Headers more than 6′ long
should be installed with framing anchors,
unless supported by a beam, post, or partition.
Tail joists over 12′ long should also be supported
by framing anchors or a ledger strip. Refer to
Chapter 8 for additional information on framing
rough openings.
Providing adequate headroom is often
a problem, especially in smaller structures.
Installing an auxiliary header close to the main
Figure 18-6. This series of photos shows various stages in building stairs. A—This carpenter is
making a plumb cut on a housed (closed) stringer. Grooves are cut in the stringer to receive the treads
and risers. B—This stringer is a cut-out type. The 2 × 4 spacer (arrow) gives clearance for instal-
lation of the wall fi nish. C—Newel post is being installed. The carpenter is checking for plumb.
D—The handrail has been installed and the carpenter is cutting and placing the prefi nished balusters.
E—This carpenter is fastening the lower rail of a banister to the fl oor. Since the banister is
made of oak, it is necessary to drill pilot holes for the nails. Glue is also applied to each joint.
F—These stairs are completed except for the installation of carpeting.
A
B
C
D
E F