Cutting Stairs With A Pro - Tips and Tricks: Shop Build #14

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  • Опубліковано 7 лют 2025
  • Stairs have become icons of real carpentry. They deserve this stereotype. Whether a straight flight, winders, elliptical, or anything else, you have to know something, you have to pay attention, and you have to work. Gotta love it. How to be more productive: • How To Be More Productive
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 473

  • @michaelmaas5544
    @michaelmaas5544 2 роки тому +199

    As 35 year carpenter that began doing strictly apartments in the union at a high pace for my first 13 years. I have cut hundreds if not thousands of sets of stairs as well as formed many concrete stairs this is the absolute best man to watch when you need to learn. I’m not one for the camera but I’m glad men like this are out here sharing their knowledge!

    • @asya9493
      @asya9493 2 роки тому +13

      Yup, I'll watch this again - it's philosophy + logic + technique; the complete package. And I cut my first stringers in '76 🪚👍

    • @jamesbeecher4431
      @jamesbeecher4431 Рік тому +1

      Michael Mass, I am helping a friend with his porch stairs and I cut the stringers for it. 1 time doing that, and one stringer has 2 treads that are about 1/8" shorter than the others. Is 1/8" enough to be worried about? I am adding the joist seal tape before we put the treads on to protect the wood. Should I add a second layer of the tape at these locations since it is about 1/8th"
      I am annoyed with myself for those two being off a little.

    • @michaelmaas5544
      @michaelmaas5544 Рік тому +1

      @@jamesbeecher4431 An 1/8” in framing is definitely tolerable it’s the thickness of the blade. A lot of framers would call it perfect.
      If it bothers you just knowing it’s off putting an extra layer or two of joist tape on them is a great idea!
      Stairs can be intimidating for some but they really aren’t that difficult, at least most, hats off to you for taking on and completing them!

    • @jamesbeecher4431
      @jamesbeecher4431 Рік тому

      @@michaelmaas5544 Thanks for the info and encouragement. It's an excuse to buy power tools!
      Have a great week.

    • @michaelmaas5544
      @michaelmaas5544 Рік тому

      @@jamesbeecher4431 one can never have to many tools!

  • @DrD6452
    @DrD6452 2 роки тому +211

    I took carpentry in 1992 at a vocational school and my teacher was an old master craftsman from England. He was an awesome teacher who hated lazy people and weeded 4 people out of the class within the first week. I went in to become a rough framer and literally came out a cabinet maker after only one year of training. Unfortunately 3 months after graduating I had a car accident that left me paralyzed from the chest down. I sold off all my tools thinking I'd never be able to use them again because of how high my spinal cord injury is. My love of tools, carpentry and working with my hands never waned though so over the past almost 30 years I have bought all new tools again and built myself a workshop. Me and my soon to be wife are renovating an old 3 story 130+ year old hotel. I have the construction knowledge and have taught myself how to properly do plumbing and electrical to code and she has the fully functioning body I lack to carry out the physical labour beyond my means. It's slow going but we'll get there. Your work efficiency tips and tricks are amazing and will help cut down the amount of time it will take to finish this massive project.

  • @RainyDayBricks
    @RainyDayBricks 2 роки тому +78

    Thank you so much for passing on your knowledge. My five year old son watches your videos with rapt attention and then heads out to the backyard to build with the scrap lumber my husband brings home for him. He tries to use what you taught to the best of his ability. It's sweet to see and we appreciate your willingness to share what you know.

  • @StYawn-mx5ik
    @StYawn-mx5ik 2 роки тому +167

    Thanks for all this info over the years. I'm 29 now, discovered your videos just before I started framing and remodeling in 2019, and I've learned more from you here than I could have possibly imagined. I was a dry-stone mason and landscaper from 2014 to 2019, my first forray into real work at the age of 21, and since that time I've been developing the skill set and personality of "be the strongest man at my father's funeral." It's not easy, and teachers are few and far between, but it's still out there. I'm not the only young man to whom you've offered poignant guidance, both on and off site. Keep making, keep teaching!

    • @slynn5138
      @slynn5138 2 роки тому +8

      Hopefully, you have discovered Larry Haun. I believe that to be a “true” carpenter you must watch his series “The Very Efficient Carpenter” at least 50 times. He’s just a world of knowledge.

    • @seanclason6350
      @seanclason6350 2 роки тому +12

      When you run into an oldschool guy, pay attention to every little thing. No, there is no textbook definition of what an old school guy is, but you'll know it when you see it

    • @BNOBLE.
      @BNOBLE. 2 роки тому +6

      You will go far with EC behind your hands and JBP on your mind!!!!
      Keep up the good work.
      You remind me of myself at your age and I only wish I had these 2 men in my life when I was young.

    • @leewatkins1610
      @leewatkins1610 2 роки тому

      @@slynn5138 going to look for Larry now

  • @dosadoodle
    @dosadoodle 2 роки тому +50

    I really wish the polygon and triangle sections of middle school geometry books were centered around building. There are so many ways it fits in, and it provides a lot of practical motivation for the content.

    • @steeplecab
      @steeplecab 2 роки тому +4

      Agreed. So many kids seem to learn better if there's a practical application and they can see the usefulness of what they're learning.

    • @johnbrownlee2341
      @johnbrownlee2341 2 роки тому +1

      Geometry never made sense to me until I cut my first roof.

    • @bumpsangrimez
      @bumpsangrimez 2 роки тому

      Geometry was the only part I just got without study. Math is really where they separated me from the harder working types of student. But you can always get your hands on those 10th grade public school books pretty easily 😉 And there are classes for adults taught by teachers who can focus on helping you tighten up your skills instead of practically raising children all day

    • @hjoe4473
      @hjoe4473 2 роки тому

      Good point. Bringing practical daily uses of these shapes into the classroom would create relevance for students and help them learn.

  • @clint5919
    @clint5919 2 роки тому +9

    My Contractor Grand Father always said, you can tell the quality of a carpenter by the stairs they build....Sure do miss him RIP Granddad

    • @patrickmccutcheon8860
      @patrickmccutcheon8860 5 місяців тому

      A rafter and a stringer. Both things that set apart real carpenters from the wannabes and the hacks. I’m trying to become a real carpenter myself haha

  • @euphgolf
    @euphgolf 2 роки тому +8

    “If you look up perfect in the dictionary”, you’re gonna see my smile every time an EC video shows up in my feed. Scott, you are the best. I learn much from all your content.

  • @RadioChief52
    @RadioChief52 2 роки тому +1

    Whenever I think of building stringers, I think about Larry Haun cutting these things out with the greatest of ease. He's finished and nailing them in place while I am still scribing my first board to cut. RIP Larry.

  • @tonyn3123
    @tonyn3123 2 роки тому +42

    I have to comment about my experience with stairs. I was on a federal project for constructing a "park-like" facility and had a slope to traverse. My experience was in another area of civil, so this type of structure was totally new. I asked several engineers for some pointers. The only help I got was "You'll figure it out". The design and layout were not defined in the plans other than a graphic on plan view which showed steps from top to bottom. I was responsible for laying out the set of concrete steps for the contractor. I had little clue. I had a defined elevation difference and chiseled in stone touch-down points I had to hit and keep the rise and run of each step consistent within the defined specs. I did a lot of head scratching and finally reverted to drawing the layout in profile view. That's when I discovered that a significant landing midway of the steps was required to maintain the rise and run and keep the firm touch-down points. This was approximately 40 years ago. I periodically stop by that project just to see the completed steps. Some things you just don't forget.

    • @leewatkins1610
      @leewatkins1610 2 роки тому +3

      your story illustrates that you had to take the bull by the horns and figure it out youself!..those engineers do what they know best but ultimately leave it to you....only the smart engineers NEVER talk down to you and recognize how important the blue collar is ...THE PAY between us and them is actually reversed to what it should be! .....

    • @davidsaffell1707
      @davidsaffell1707 2 роки тому

      ]

    • @JoshAllenberg
      @JoshAllenberg 2 роки тому +3

      I always ask what the GC wants. I tell them I can do it whatever way, I don't care myself as I will never be using the building, but they're going to be on the hook for it in the end, so its their responsibility to let me know if they need a certain finish.

  • @pamelah6431
    @pamelah6431 2 роки тому +24

    One of the many terrific qualities of this channel is Scott's brilliant, humble way of capitalizing on mistakes, accidents, & imperfections as real-world teaching moments. Love him.

  • @arresthillary9502
    @arresthillary9502 2 роки тому +15

    A man that truly enjoyed his work delivers a superior product like EC.
    True legend this guy.
    Teacher of the year,contractor of the year,philosopher,wise grandpa, craftsman all rolled into one!!

  • @bgrigg07
    @bgrigg07 2 роки тому +2

    The best part of this video was the "I changed my mind" part! Construction is and always has been the art of balancing what you want with what you need.

  • @JuanEspinoza-zl1yy
    @JuanEspinoza-zl1yy 2 роки тому +4

    Hello from Las Vegas Nevada GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

  • @frjer11
    @frjer11 2 роки тому +3

    I can't tell you how much I enjoy these videos. I have no need right now, but I have a hankering to build some stairs.

  • @rsecord
    @rsecord 2 роки тому +15

    As a contractor and person with 30 years in industry, that was a mind Blowing but well done explaination to the uninitiated person mind blowing, what the heck moment. I could not have explained it better! Keep it up OG your rocking it and shall for be for ever remembered via the internet, and your family off course. Here is to many more years of your passing of knowledge! Thank you , Bob... oh and the repair was perfect!

  • @4909ak
    @4909ak 2 роки тому +24

    I don't remember when i started watching your videos. But your mannerisms and teaching style reminds me of my grandpa. I lost him when i was young(11) but i find myself doing stuff he'd have done so my family says and sometimes i ask myself how you'd do it. Thank you for being such a helpful person and such an informative person. You're a truly special person

  • @zackjones8681
    @zackjones8681 2 роки тому +25

    I'm 61 years old and probably will never have a need to do anything with stairs but that was one enjoyable 22 minutes out of my day. Thank you, Scott!

    • @ruidadgmailcanada8508
      @ruidadgmailcanada8508 Рік тому

      I’m 48 and build stairs daily…I’m watching his presentation and absorbing it like a sponge. He’s such a good teacher.

    • @doncook3584
      @doncook3584 10 місяців тому

      72 and same.

  • @essentialjudge2279
    @essentialjudge2279 2 роки тому +12

    Nice. My tips...make sure the elevation is taken from the top of the landing to the floor at the end of the stringer...floors can slope.. adding to over all rise.
    I have always added a 2*4 to the bottom of all the stringers.
    If you put another square in your jig upside down to the first it will give you the points more accurate. On 1.5 inch treads I always start at the bottom with a riser and second riser then first tread and nail back through the second riser into the tread and continue on up.
    You can stack the two stringers together and cut 1.75" deep...this will leave a .25" cut in the second board which can be stacked on a third and continue. Just some tips from an old stair master. Good morning from Missouri...the Ozarks.

    • @T_bone
      @T_bone 2 роки тому +1

      I'm gonna have to read this a few times. Great comment!

  • @d.beaumont9157
    @d.beaumont9157 2 роки тому +1

    Times running out for me now, but I left carpentry in my 30s. Now in my 60s through your wonderful videos I'm reliving the joy and satisfaction I used to get. I still get upset at how fast time as past. I still occasionally use my great grandads level and square he made in the 1870s. He made them as part of his apprenticeship, I check them and they are still true. I keep meaning to set up his block planes and use them aswell, maybe one day.

  • @pamelah6431
    @pamelah6431 2 роки тому +1

    Loved the pun at the end! 😁

  • @jamesmcgill3726
    @jamesmcgill3726 2 роки тому +1

    This man is the real deal. I've been working in construction 40+ yrs Hat's Off, real professional.

  • @mae2759
    @mae2759 2 роки тому +1

    Another masterclass from the G.O.A.T.!

  • @mark-uh8un
    @mark-uh8un 2 роки тому +2

    BAR NONE! The best channel on UA-cam 🏆

  • @dalesworld1308
    @dalesworld1308 2 роки тому +15

    Stair building is really a lot of fun. I've replaced a couple sets of basement stairs for folks, the original builder used mortised stringers that were meant to be affixed to wall studs just floating out in mid-air. You'll see wide stairs that are built with no support stringer in the center. Knowing the basics can make you some money and it's very satisfying.

  • @davidhansen5160
    @davidhansen5160 2 роки тому +4

    I have never built a staircase prior to watching this video. I had to do this for a family member who lives several hours away. I was pretty nervous about the project and only had a few days to complete it. This video, and the explanations and tips within it gave me confidence I could do a decent job of it. I completed it, and it was nearly perfect. I ended up having to navigate walls out of square, floors that were uneven. (Very old house) But the staircase, landing and everything I built ended up perfectly with no wasted material related to mistakes. Thank you for taking the time to produce this.

  • @shermanhofacker4428
    @shermanhofacker4428 2 роки тому +1

    Glue and screw triangles to a 2x6 for a strong, efficient use of materials.

  • @mikegrier2829
    @mikegrier2829 2 роки тому +1

    I love that the word “satisfying” is spoken often in these videos. Work, honest to goodness work, is indeed satisfying. For me, being less qualified and knowledgeable, it is preceded by aggravation at times, but I accept that in return for the satisfaction. I have plenty of friends who would rather pay someone to do just about everything. They don’t know what they’re missing. 😊

    • @victorrodea7163
      @victorrodea7163 Рік тому

      Lots of satisfaction in completing a project truly as good as you can.

  • @montelott8570
    @montelott8570 2 роки тому +1

    The few stairs I have built were done the laborious way; by measuring I have considered stair guages but no longer that sliding square sold me thanks for thr tips

  • @matteberry58
    @matteberry58 2 роки тому +2

    I believe you're the best teacher on the internet and by all the other comments I read a lot of folks agree with me. God bless you Scott.

  • @thomasaccuntius9946
    @thomasaccuntius9946 2 роки тому +1

    Bravo! You finally made a video on cutting stair stringers, comming from a person who knows how to do it. I am a retired Special Project Builder doing commercial casework, countertops and other speciality items. I worked at 2 lumber yards prior to my last one, and I cut out a lot of stair stringers using a framing sq. and a set of square buttons to do them. Since I was at a lumberyard I would calculate the stringers length and select the 2 x 12 SYP that I needed. Also sometimes I would add a 2 x 6 on the side of the center stringers for extra strength and on the outside ones too sometimes. When the treads and risers are glued and screwed on, no squeaks. It surprised me the number of contractors that I cut stringers for, and I think some of them didn't know how.

  • @mikewatson4644
    @mikewatson4644 2 роки тому +8

    I like the fixture for the framing square. I made something similiar to use when I layout stairs. I also calculate where the point of the framing square should be and mark all of those before starting. That keeps me from being off by even the width of a pencil mark. One of my friends told me that stairs are "rough framing" not building kitchen cabinets!! But I have a sense of satisfaction when I am done. I use 1 more stringer than is called for by code. My stairs are solid.
    Thank you for passing along your knowledge and experience. I really appreciate when you take the time to explain why you do something the way that you do.

  • @toddavis8603
    @toddavis8603 2 роки тому

    I HAVE Cut out dozens of stair stringers over the years, and appreciate new ways, essential craftsman!

  • @randywinegardner7517
    @randywinegardner7517 2 роки тому +10

    As a structural engineer, whenever I’m tasked with designing a stair framing plan, I always spec scabbing a 2x to the side of the stringers (at least 1 side, both if possible) to compensate for poor lumber quality such as what you’re working with here. Love your videos and keep up the good work. ❤

    • @jeffshackleford3152
      @jeffshackleford3152 2 роки тому +1

      Like a ledger board under the stringer wall stringers or a horizontal piece under all the stringers from left to right wall?

    • @randywinegardner7517
      @randywinegardner7517 2 роки тому +2

      @@jeffshackleford3152 Think of it as sandwiching the stair stringer between two 2X’s. The bottom edge of the stringer flush with the bottom edge of the 2X’s. This gives the stair stringer added strength where its fibers are in tension. Hope that makes sense.

    • @dennisdubey2126
      @dennisdubey2126 2 роки тому +1

      I worked with a structural engineer for years as an architectural apprentice & learned alot. His method was what you or nature takes out of your structural member, match that thickness with minimum 8” each side of the defect with quality wood by means appropriate.

    • @jeffshackleford3152
      @jeffshackleford3152 2 роки тому +2

      @@randywinegardner7517 like sistering joists?

    • @randywinegardner7517
      @randywinegardner7517 2 роки тому

      @@jeffshackleford3152 yes

  • @stanwooddave9758
    @stanwooddave9758 2 роки тому

    First off my background, 25 yr's Autobody repair's, 15 plus yr's Welder fitter (5 yr's at a ship-yard, where we built little 400 foot long canoe's, with FULL-SIZED helicopter landing pads on the bow of the little boats ) to present day, @ 69 yr's still welding odds job's when they come into my shop at home.
    @ 14:52 of the video, I would suggest flipping the board over, (yes, it would force you to use your left hand to make the cut.) so that the 3.5 in. surface of the saw, slides along the board, and maintains a true 90 degree, as opposed to using the 1.5" in. side of the saw, and the chance of not keeping a 90 degree cut, especially if you have to stop the saw, than restart with the torque of a worm-driven saw, changing the angle of the saw to the board.

  • @skygh
    @skygh 2 роки тому

    The official term is dragon tails. Instead of making the treads level we tipped them 1/8 inch lower at front for foot comfort. Makes a huge difference. Great tips buddy

  • @BattlestarCanada
    @BattlestarCanada 2 роки тому

    I remember when you screwed them up at the spec house, THAT lesson I learned from; focus is really the key to success.

  • @mattcosgrove8254
    @mattcosgrove8254 2 роки тому +1

    I just found your channel it’s great! As a master carpenter you are giving away the secrets lol. However the framing portion of stairs is called the carriage as it carry’s the weight. The “stringer” is the reverse pattern that serves as the trim portion above the finished treads.
    It’s good to show what quality looks like, there is a serious lack of examples of what good work looks like these days. Most carpenters don’t know how to crown, true, select lumber or even bridge walls. Then they wonder why finished walls are wavy.

  • @PalauCreationsbyQCP
    @PalauCreationsbyQCP 2 роки тому +2

    Greetings from Palau! Liked before watching!!!

  • @forgenit
    @forgenit 8 місяців тому

    I really enjoy your Vid's, they are well edited and cover so many trades. As a general contractor of thirty eight years and a carpenter of 49 years and still going, my appreciation is awarded from experience. This one had many great tips & advice. I would add: Install backing blocks at rake of stringers before attaching the stringers to the studs & pad out the stringers with as wide of a 2x as possible ( from the intersection of the cuts of tread/riser to at least the bottom of the stringer). Nail this on first to studs, then attach the stringers to it. Now you have clearance for 1/2"-5/8" drywall installation and a1x finish skirt board, with no cuts.

  • @marknolan2799
    @marknolan2799 2 роки тому +1

    I did production and custom framing, and finish in the Los Angeles area in the 80's and 90's. I started when I was 16 years old. I've been a building inspector now for the past 28 years. Recently I did some framing with Habitat for Humanity just to see if I could still do it. I had a great time. I love the smell of douglas fir and burnt diesel.

  • @agoogleuser1594
    @agoogleuser1594 2 роки тому +1

    Ha, the stair pun at the end really brought your content to a new level.

  • @michaelrowan3851
    @michaelrowan3851 6 місяців тому

    I like this geezer. He shows the real life situation and teaches you about the material defects and how to get around them. I wish I had his knowledge and skills. I’d build a big house where, we both could live.

  • @jamessandlin4406
    @jamessandlin4406 2 роки тому +1

    i am like so many in the comments section i have learned much and been encouraged to try to build structures that initially intimidate me because of lack of experience the knowledge and experience on display is very appreciated real carpenters and craftman really are not appreciated as much as they should be all tradesman build on top of the foundation it makes sense that the foundation be the best it can be

  • @Montana2strokers
    @Montana2strokers 8 місяців тому

    The last set of stairs I built I used lp lsl stair stringers. Straight as an arrow and no defects. This was the first time using them I was skeptical but after I was done, glued and screwed they were rock solid. The homeowner said there 400 lb friend went down them and not a creek or noise to be had. Thanks for the awesome videos you guys put out. Always enjoy hearing what you have to say! Awr

  • @scottallen5269
    @scottallen5269 Рік тому +1

    This is a great video on how to cut in stairs. I’ve cut in enough stairs over my 30 years, I’ve lost count. I’ve also done the finish work on stairs and I’ve ripped out a few too, that others have done incorrectly.
    I can’t see anything wrong with what you did here. Over the years I’ve picked up some tricks from older carpenters and through trial and error. One of them is bizarre when you first hear it. And I thought for sure it was, until I tried it. So, when you go to cut your line for your treads, as you start your cut make sure you leave the pencil line completely. And as you cut you want to slightly work your way into the pencil line, so that you’ve gone through the line at the end of the cut. The idea is to have your tread pitch down about a sixteenth from front to back. When you do this, when you walk up your stairs that slight pitch pulls you into the stairs as you’re going up, and helps keep you from leaning forward on the way down the stairs. Before you doubt it, try it. Just don’t pitch in the other direction… has the opposite effect.
    When you’re doing your stairs, the first question should always be, “What are the finish flooring going to be upstairs and downstairs and also the landings?”
    So you can properly figure out your heights in those change up areas. 1st and last step and on the landings also.
    Over the years I stopped using cleats at the bottom, whenever possible. I prefer to take a straight strap and nail half of it to the bottom of the stringer were it meets the floor. Leaving the other half hanging past the backside and nail it to the floor, or tapcon it for concrete. And I’ll put plastic or felt under the pine stringers if they are on concrete too.

  • @sawdustadikt979
    @sawdustadikt979 2 роки тому +1

    Another great video. If I may add to your practical use of the humble chisel. A sharp, well maintained chisel is as fast if not faster than a power tool when it’s used in experienced hands and in your tool belt at all times. My current favorite all purpose chisel is the DEWALT one that has one side of the tang sharpened so it’s a chisel knife. The steel isn’t as hard as a more expensive chisels obviously reflected in the price. The tang is really long so it can reach alot of things a multi master cant. Great well made hand tools are just as fun as great well made power tools. Most of my clients are of a older vintage, when they see me do couple quick passes with a block plane to clean up the edge of a board I just ripped, or finish a plunged corner with a sharp chisel or pull saw, my value to them shoots through the roof.

  • @MyDadDotCom
    @MyDadDotCom Рік тому +5

    It's nice to see someone taking into account something that no contractor I hire ever will ever ever take into account.

  • @chuckb470
    @chuckb470 2 роки тому +1

    I spent 9 months building all of the stairways for a 7 story, multi-use building, almost every one unique. (4) 1 3/4"x 14" LSL stringers. A few tips: I used a 10 1/4" beam saw to minimize over-cutting. Move backwards instead of forwards as you cut the rise and run so your sawdust doesn't obscure your line. I used stair gauges on that job, but now just quick-grip any small, straight piece of wood to my square. Far better IMO. Keep up the good work. 👍

  • @kmibuilding906
    @kmibuilding906 2 роки тому +8

    Very nice and you explain it well. I learned some old school methods from many of my elders and now passing some technics on to my sons. Stay healthy my friend!

  • @sgtfreyday
    @sgtfreyday 2 роки тому

    I find such joy in your videos. Many of the titles, want to blow off because I’ve done the job many times over. But, I watch anyway. I ALWAYS end up with a few take-a-ways, no matter what. Then I’m glad I watched.
    Keep up the good work. I like your style, passion, real world experience and enthusiasm to teach others. Making the world a better place, one project at a time.

  • @HighPeaksHome
    @HighPeaksHome 2 роки тому +1

    Once i learned to cut stairs (self taught) it became my favorite part of all my builds. I take great pride in them.

  • @DSH1LL
    @DSH1LL Рік тому

    Your videos are a good thing for me on a couple levels. One, as a self-employed handyman, this channel is an educational resource and two, it's good for my soul listening to wisdom from someone I respect and admire. Thank you and "Keep up the Good Work".

  • @stanleykeith6969
    @stanleykeith6969 2 роки тому +1

    Great Job !

  • @venderpara7895
    @venderpara7895 2 роки тому

    i remember no all over internet how to vids, we sat x days and days reading awesome different trades books specially general contracting building since most our work was all track work, now channels like mr craftsman offer beautiful fine tuning in items were not so keen with... good day

  • @ipikture
    @ipikture 2 роки тому +1

    Absolutely beautiful! I got forced out of automotive and then now doing handyman work, that's another story. As I travel around Colorado Springs trying to help people out I'm finding that most of the houses do not have actual stringers anymore. The stairs are shipped in from somewhere prefabbed. There is only a skirt routed out for the tread and it is slid into place from the back and glued. The risers are thin 1/8 in pieces of nothing that are slid in place from the bottom up and stapled to the heel of the tread. These are 33 in wide treads and there is NO Central stringers added. These are all covered in carpet and as 15 to 20 years pass by I'm finding that the treads, which are made out of pressed wood, have now worn out their skirt/stringer and with no central support are swaying down in the center, pulling the staples out of the risers and falling through to below. There's no way to fix these once they're installed into the house without tearing out ceilings and floors and walls. Being taught how to build stairs, emphasizing the need for center structural support stringers, when I was young by my dad who is now 90 I did not know that this practice took place. As I go in and out of these houses you can just hear and feel all the stairs creaking and giving way under you as you walk up and down them. I did not know that this would pass inspection as safe. I got lucky on a couple tri levels where I was able to go in through a crawl space and retrofit some stringers and support beams after sliding new treads and risers into the existing skirts. Then temporarily anchoring them into place until I can slide in and anchor down the new stringers as best I can. There is no craftsmanship in these track housing neighborhoods. The term we use in the Auto industry is, "flat rating" a job with no thought to detail or safety.

  • @chrishelbling3879
    @chrishelbling3879 2 роки тому +2

    Dear sir: I love how your lessons combine skills, arithmetic, geometry, aesthetics, and wisdom. And how you can still work while on your knees? So jealous; respect to you.

  • @RobertJohnson-nf8mt
    @RobertJohnson-nf8mt Рік тому

    I've watched so many of your videos but at the end of the day you put so many things into a simplistic approach which is so lost for the young men/women today! You Are OLD SCHOOL You're the man! Wish my Dad knew and taught me what you know but I got your videos. So Articulate!

  • @WireWeHere
    @WireWeHere 2 роки тому

    Raised a rancher years ago and a bunch of people from the sawmill I worked at gave me a day. That included the millwright's supervisor and he took on our staircase. With the layout done and hand selected stringers he completed our stairs in a day. That was in 96 and our stairs remain solid and silent. Good to have friends.

  • @Whipple1
    @Whipple1 2 роки тому

    This video arrived just in time. I’m headed to the lumber yard to buy some 2x12s to hang a set of steps on my new shop. Thanks Scott.
    Cheers!
    Whipple

  • @davidmcrae5183
    @davidmcrae5183 2 роки тому

    "Zeal AND Knowledge!!" Awsesome.
    Beautiful work!

  • @jeffkenyon7084
    @jeffkenyon7084 2 роки тому +4

    I was taught to put a 2x4 on the side of the stringers against the wall as a spacer so you can slide the dry wall down and you can slide trim down 1x12 then bring finish riser and treds to it

    • @TedBruckner
      @TedBruckner 2 роки тому +1

      Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

  • @ExioElioCabreja
    @ExioElioCabreja 6 місяців тому

    i just graduated from Carpentry Framework and Joinery also Introduction to Carpentry i have learned about making stairs and soon continuing Hands On Hands Classes i am very excited for the future and also old days of the carpentry profession.

  • @ventutrer
    @ventutrer Рік тому

    I looked up stair building on you tubtube and yours came up. I've been a subscriber for years and have never seen this episode.
    As I watched, I thought to myself, I wish I could do like he does! Nevertheless, I have stairs to build and this video gave me more useful information that I could've imagined.
    But more than that, I gave me the inspiration to do as you would do and have a perfect staircase.
    Thank you for your knowledge and inspiration.
    God Bless

  • @54mgtf22
    @54mgtf22 2 роки тому +1

    Good evening from Australia
    Love your work 👍

  • @freemansame8062
    @freemansame8062 2 роки тому

    When it's time to build your dream house, you want that man by your side. A Real renaissance man.

  • @davidc9135
    @davidc9135 2 роки тому +3

    Incase anyone is wondering about deduction/additions at the top and bottom of the stringer:
    Bottom of stair (if landing on subfloor) is unit rise - tread thickness + finish floor
    Top of stringer (if using hanger board for the last rise as Scott has done here) unit rise +tread - finish floor
    You would also deduct the thickness of the hanger board on the back of the stringer (plumb face) prior to installing the hanger board

  • @guntherthegoat1756
    @guntherthegoat1756 2 роки тому

    GGGRRRR!!!!! you over cut with the skill saw one of my biggest pet peeves i know it literally meants nothing to the structure of the board but still one of my quirks lol. great build and love the content......keep up the good work!!

  • @Soul-driven
    @Soul-driven Рік тому

    Like I've always told my apprentices and helpers, just keep your eyes open and pay attention. A lot of what EC has provided here is common sense. I always order my stringer boards the next size up because 9 times out of 10 the cracks are always on the ends. Also, as far as the framing square is concerned for layout, just pick your best board with no edge issues to layout first, then cut it and then trace the others to that cut out board.

  • @normansawatzky4778
    @normansawatzky4778 2 роки тому +4

    My Dad and my 3 uncles who taught me framing since I was a small boy showed me a trick with stairs. The treads are slightly dipping down for sleepy feet. There are so many details you can add...Thanks for the vids, I enjoy them.

    • @psidvicious
      @psidvicious 2 роки тому +1

      Helps with drainage too on exterior stairs exposed to weather.

    • @ShainAndrews
      @ShainAndrews 2 роки тому

      @@psidvicious Then grade away from the structure... not down every step. Some people don't understand the power of water.

    • @psidvicious
      @psidvicious 2 роки тому +3

      @@ShainAndrews On concrete stairs I used to pitch each tread 1/16th of an inch so that no puddles would sit on the stairs. Do the layout exactly square and level but cut the riser forms 1/16th shy. That way it automatically pitches the water out of each tread just slightly. Worked perfect every time.

  • @z06doc86
    @z06doc86 2 роки тому

    You would think Scott could get better lumber, especially living in the Northwest. However, these are valuable lessons from him regarding the use of subpar stock. Thanks Scott!

  • @ianwatters5613
    @ianwatters5613 2 роки тому +3

    Awesome as ever , great knowledge well delivered , THANKS , 👏🏻and keep up the good work !😉 Greetings from Northern Ireland

  • @TristanGrassick
    @TristanGrassick 2 роки тому

    You have done it again thanks EC and Nate need more podcasts

  • @georgewelker853
    @georgewelker853 2 роки тому

    I’m glad to see the real world real way to get stuff done and do it right

  • @kbranger3498
    @kbranger3498 2 роки тому +5

    Good morning from Kansas!!

  • @CritterCraftNZ
    @CritterCraftNZ 2 роки тому +4

    Perfect timing for me. I have a 10 step exterior stairs to build off a deck to build in 3 days time. After I recover from Covid-19. I will be building the stairs off a catalevered platform with no walls on the sides, so your timber selection tips are apt. Your episode is so comprehensive it's been a great refresher. Many thanks for your whole channel as well as this episode.

    • @mattmag3089
      @mattmag3089 Рік тому

      How did your stairs go? I can help

  • @bradgotschall3259
    @bradgotschall3259 2 роки тому +4

    Good video. My Grandpa was a carpenter and worked for a local lumber company/builder before and during the depression. His forte was finish work and stairs. He was well known for his precision and the owners made sure he did the stairs in their personal homes. He used to show us homes and tell us whose they were and what he’d built in them. Fancy trim not withstanding he always said no one appreciates walking a well designed set of stairs but they’ll always notice the ones that are poorly designed and installed.

  • @terrystephens1102
    @terrystephens1102 2 роки тому

    I always enjoy watching a master craftsman at work 😁👌👌👌👏👏👏❤️❤️

  • @brianbelson9462
    @brianbelson9462 2 роки тому

    Something so soothing about the way you pass your incredible experience on!

  • @TedBruckner
    @TedBruckner 2 роки тому +1

    all the inscriptions on the framing square together with two 4" long spring clamps keep a 1x2 board used for a fence from moving even after days of use on site and being stored in a crowded job box.

  • @shortfuse43
    @shortfuse43 2 роки тому

    Great tip (among several in this video!!) is the slotted board to use with the framing square. Roll on!!!!!

  • @huutoan1
    @huutoan1 2 роки тому

    always satisfied every time see this man of the man builds a stair

  • @gregthorup5679
    @gregthorup5679 7 місяців тому

    Excellent video - especially like the square fence idea. I have often had to work with stringer stock that is crowned, so I prefer to snap a line down the center of the stringer, then mark the points off that line with the framing square. I also got fed up with 2x12's with defects and started using LVL stock.

  • @Lapeerphoto
    @Lapeerphoto 2 роки тому +1

    This is a timely video. I need to rebuilt me back porch steps. Only 2 steps, and I'll use the old stringer as the pattern. But good tips for me on selecting how to cut the stringer.
    Thank you sir!!

  • @tonypointer7026
    @tonypointer7026 2 роки тому

    Great video as always real carpentry from a qualified tradesmen

  • @alasdairmunro1953
    @alasdairmunro1953 2 роки тому +1

    A nice tutorial in easy steps! Nice one Scott!

  • @jonathanconway7256
    @jonathanconway7256 2 роки тому

    First used a square fence when I started as a stair builder back in 95.
    Still use them today when laying out rafters. Only ever used gauges once or twice

  • @spudhut2246
    @spudhut2246 Рік тому

    Its always a pleasure to watch and learn

  • @largecarken8504
    @largecarken8504 2 роки тому

    About 20 years ago I started using microlams for stringers. Very strong and very straight.

  • @paulrodriguez1282
    @paulrodriguez1282 2 роки тому +1

    WOW!!! What a wealth of knowledge!!! Just found his videos, I'm hooked. I subscribed. Thanks for sharing and passing on your knowledge. Love your videos. Well explained, thorough, and awesome videos. Can't say enough....

  • @damiengoss8382
    @damiengoss8382 2 роки тому

    Always great to watch Essential craftsman videos.
    This is a man who knows how to pass on great skill and knowledge you can trust.

  • @tedbownas2748
    @tedbownas2748 2 роки тому

    Scott- I don't know if you've ever run across framing chisels, but check them out. I've found them to be indispensable when you need to tap the waste out of a corner like your stringers, or clearance a bit of blocking, or knock the waste out of a joist or stud after you've grooved it out for a notch. They're entirely steel with a big mushroom head, so you can smack them with a steel hammer without worrying about hitting your hand or breaking a plastic handle. And the blades are super long, so you can sharpen out nicks from nails or screws for years and still have plenty of blade left.

  • @JoyfulWisdom
    @JoyfulWisdom 2 роки тому

    Love you, Scott. It's a delight watching you showing how the good work is done.

  • @jum3lies
    @jum3lies 2 роки тому +1

    This channel helps reaffirm that the values of craftsmanship and the job well done are still alive. thank you for making these videos. This channel reminds me a little of Shoyan Japanese Carpenter. There is a similarity in approach, and yet the differences are interesting too.

  • @ArtHeld
    @ArtHeld 2 роки тому +8

    I've used your videos to learn better ways to do the next task on many of my projects. I somehow got ahead of you by a week though, because I just finished a flight of stairs yesterday. I really needed that slick replacement for my stair gauge set (Inherited from my dad, who bought them around 1950). Still was a great watch with coffee this morning, as always. Thanks!

  • @nerfherder4284
    @nerfherder4284 2 роки тому

    Such a relief, I would have been worried I was being too cheap to get a different board which isn't cheap. Thanks 👍🏻

  • @ssnobody8775
    @ssnobody8775 2 роки тому +1

    I use scrap plywood gussets, glued and stapled, on the problem horses. Works like a charm!

  • @kylerayk
    @kylerayk 2 роки тому +1

    Great video! I love learning new things in each episode.

  • @michaelc.fischer2439
    @michaelc.fischer2439 2 роки тому +2

    Great video! I’m kind of an old fart and have cut in a few stairs myself. I noticed you didn’t reference crowning all your stair jacks so the crown is facing up on all the jacks.
    I thought this was important. What do you think? Food for thought for the young carpenters out there. 😊🇺🇸

  • @pwnsolo443
    @pwnsolo443 Рік тому

    Once you get your final dimensions for rise and run figured out, if you stack 2 boards and clamp them together and set your saw depth full, you can score through to the second board and have an EXACT duplicate of the first stringer. This eliminates alot of human error being off from the thickness of the saw blade. Awesome video.

  • @qblinden21
    @qblinden21 2 роки тому

    Great way to start off the Saturday morning.