Yes, it is possible to join stair stringers together. This is usually done when building longer stair runs than what a single stringer is designed to accommodate. Specifically, to join stair stringers, one stringer should overlap the other at the tread marks.
Next, a 90 degree angle bracket should be used to join the two pieces, with the bracket secured in place from on top and the bottom with screws and washers. When joining the two pieces, it is important to make sure the two pieces are level and square before securing the bracket in place.
Also, it is a good idea to consult a structural engineer before joining two stair stringers to ensure the structure is safe and secure.
How do you fix a split stair stringer?
Fixing a split stair stringer can be done by reinforcing the affected area with lumber, fasteners, and exterior glue. First, use a reciprocating saw to further split the stringer along the crack in order to widen it.
Then, pry the sides apart using a wide flat crowbar. Next, fill the gap with a piece of treated lumber to reinforce the stringer. Nail the lumber piece in place with galvanized decking nails, and then fill the crack with an exterior adhesive, such as a waterproof construction adhesive.
Allow the adhesive to dry completely, and then reinforce the joint with galvanized decking screws, drive them at 45-degree angles into the joint. Finally, finish off the job with wood filler, applying it over the screws and adhesive with a putty knife.
Can a stringer be repaired?
Yes, a stringer can be repaired. Depending on the type of damage, the repair will vary. If the stringer has a crack or break in it, it will most likely need to be spliced or patched with a piece of compatible material – usually a carbon or Kevlar patch.
If the damage is only cosmetic, such as scratches or dings, it can be easily filled in with epoxy or filler. If the stringer is simply warped, it can sometimes be reglued with epoxy. In some cases, it may be easier to simply replace the warped or damaged stringer with a new one.
Whatever repair option you choose, it’s important to make sure that the job is done properly and that the stringer is properly reinstalled and reinforced.
Can you cut premade stair stringers?
Yes, it is possible to cut pre-made stair stringers. Depending on the type of stair stringer you have, you may need to use a saw, jigsaw, reciprocating saw, circular saw, or chop saw to make the necessary cuts.
Before cutting the stair stringers, you should take careful measurements and make sure the stringers are level and evenly spaced. It is also important to use the right kind of saw blade to prevent damaging the stair stringers.
Additionally, you should wear safety glasses and protective gear while making any cuts to avoid injury. With the proper knowledge and tools, pre-made stair stringers can easily be cut to your needs.
How wide can stairs be with 2 stringers?
The width of stairs with 2 stringers will depend on the type of stairs being constructed. For example, residential stairs typically have a width between 36 and 42 inches, with a minimum width of 36 inches for stairs having 2 stringers.
For commercial stairs, the minimum width is typically 3 feet. If a larger width is desired, additional stringers may be required. Additionally, the width of the stairs should be determined by the space they will occupy, so measurements should be taken to ensure the constructed stairs fit the space available.
It is important to keep in mind that any stairs wider than 36 inches should include additional stringers.
How many stringers do I need for a 36 inch wide staircase?
This depends on a few key factors, such as the tread (or step) depth, the rise (or height) of the staircase, and the type of material used. For example, if you are using a hardwood stair tread and a 14-inch rise, then you would need three stringers.
If the tread is 11 inches deep, then you would need four stringers. Additionally, the type of material used can affect the number of stringers required. For instance, if you plan to use pressure-treated lumber, then you would need one additional stringer due to the added weight.
If you plan to use composite boards, then you may only need two stringers, as they are much lighter. Ultimately, the best way to determine how many stringers you need for a 36-inch wide staircase is to consult with a licensed contractor or engineer who is familiar with local building codes.
How do you install premade deck stringers?
Installing premade deck stringers is a relatively simple process that does not require specialized skills or tools. Before getting started, you’ll need to decide how many stringers you’ll need and determine their size and spacing according to your deck layout.
Once you have the required tools and materials gathered, you can begin the installation process:
1. Start by laying out the stringers, marking their positions on the deck frame and making sure they’re level with each other and the frame.
2. Using a drill and longer deck screws (10” or 12”), attach the stringer to the framing members. Make sure to use two screws at each joint (four screws total).
3. Install blocking and joists to provide additional support between the stringers and keep them even.
4. Attach the rim joists and floor joists to the stringers. Use two screws at each joist attachment point (four screws total).
5. Once the stringers are secure, add additional support with joist hangers and nails.
6. Finish the installation by installing the deck boards along the top of the stringers, securing each board in place with galvanized nails.
Following these steps will ensure that your deck stringers are securely and properly installed so you can enjoy the outdoor living space you’ve created with confidence.
Can you cut stringers with a jigsaw?
Yes, you can cut stringers with a jigsaw. To do so, you’ll need to make sure that your jigsaw is equipped with a good quality blade that is designed for cutting wood. Once the blade is set up, you’ll set the depth of the blade to the thickness of your stringer.
Then, simply guide the jigsaw along the line of the stringer and let the machine do the work. It’s important to use a steady, controlled motion and make sure that the edges of the cut are smooth. If the edges are jagged or uneven, you may need to sand them down for an even fit.
Additionally, make sure that you protect the work area from sawdust, as the jigsaw can cause a lot of dust to accumulate during the cutting process. Taking these precautions will ensure that you can cut stringers with a jigsaw safely and efficiently.
How do you cut a stair stringer with a circular saw?
Cutting a stair stringer with a circular saw requires a few simple steps. First, measure and mark your desired rise and run on the stringer, based on your local building code. Once you’ve marked the stringer, double-check the measurements to ensure accuracy.
Next, brace the stringer for stability and support on a flat surface. At this point, it may help to clamp the stringer in place so that it has less of a chance of shifting during the cutting process.
Once your stringer is ready, use your circular saw set to cut the outline you marked out. Start the cut at the bottom corner of the rise and carefully move the saw along the line until you reach the opposite corner of the rise.
Make sure not to cut out too much material and to maintain an angle of 45 degrees to keep the stringer supported.
Complete the same process with each rise until the stringer is cut according to the measurements you took. When cutting the run, however, you may need to make multiple passes with the saw to ensure the width is just right.
Lastly, for the finishing touches, sand down any sharp edges or burrs so that the stringer is safe to install and use.
Do stair stringers need support?
Yes, stair stringers absolutely need support. Stair stringers are the structural components of any staircase that hold the stair treads and risers in place. Without support, stair stringers can bend, warp, or outright collapse under the strain of the stairs and the weight of anyone who might walk on them.
For this reason, stringers typically require support either in the form of additional framing or load-bearing posts and beams. For example, a staircase might include two 3-step stringers on either side of the stairs.
Each of these stringers would need to be firmly attached to a post or beam at the top and bottom of the staircase to ensure they would remain stable and secure. Without such support, the stairs would not be able to safely bear anyone’s weight.
In addition to providing the necessary support, properly installed stringers are also necessary for ensuring the stairs are built to code. Most local building codes dictate that stringers must be placed no farther than 18 inches apart and must be able to support a certain weight, generally calculated based on the number of risers and treads, as well as the anticipated use of the stairs.
Without providing proper support for the stringers, these codes will not be met, making the stairs illegal and unsafe for continued use.
Overall, stair stringers are absolutely essential components to any staircase and they must be properly supported to remain structurally sound, meet building codes, and protect the safety of anyone who might use them.