RightSizeTools Practical sizing calculators
Materials & Projects

Stair Stringer Calculator

Enter the total rise and your target riser/tread sizes to plan a basic stair layout.

Last updated: May 2026

Unit system Switch between U.S. customary and metric units. Your choice is remembered on other calculators.

Stair measurements

Total rise is the vertical distance from the lower finished surface to the upper finished surface.

Visual guide

Which measurement goes where?

Total rise is the full vertical distance from the lower finished floor to the upper finished floor. Tread run is the depth of each step.

in
in
in

Buying and sizing notes

How to use this estimate

What this includes

  • The required inputs shown on this page
  • common planning assumptions
  • optional advanced adjustments where provided

What it does not include

  • site-specific professional design
  • local code approval
  • manufacturer-specific requirements
  • installation quality

Common mistakes

  • Leaving a required input at the default when your situation is different
  • ignoring product labels or ratings
  • treating the estimate as an exact final answer

Related calculators

Helpful tools for nearby decisions.

Geometry Basics

Right Triangle

Calculate hypotenuse, area, perimeter, and angles from the two legs of a right triangle.

Open calculator → Materials & Projects

Board Feet

Calculate board feet from board thickness, width, length, and quantity.

Open calculator →