Entries by Stair101

How long are residential stairs on average?

How Long Are Residential Stairs on Average? The average length of residential stairs depends on the number of steps required to bridge the vertical distance between floors. In the US, building codes recommend a standard riser height of 7.5 inches and a tread depth of 9 inches. Assuming a typical floor-to-floor height of 9-10 feet, […]

How long does it take to install 500 square feet of hardwood floors?

How Long Does it Take to Install 500 Square Feet of Hardwood Floors? A Breakdown of Installation Timelines On average, it takes 1-3 days to install 1,000 to 5,000 square feet of hardwood flooring. A two-person team can usually install 750-1,000 square feet per day. Therefore, installing 500 square feet of hardwood floors should take […]

How long should wood sit in house before installing?

How Long Should Wood Sit in House Before Installing? A Closer Look at Acclimation Acclimation times can vary based on wood species and product type, but the general recommendation is to acclimate wood flooring for at least three days. This process allows the wood to adjust its moisture content to the environment where it will […]

How long do wooden steps last?

How Long Do Wooden Steps Last? – A Comprehensive Look at Longevity, Building Codes, and Trends As an affordable and broadly available building material, wood is widely used for exterior decks and stairs throughout the United States. Outdoor wood stairs, when pressure-treated wood is used, are expected to last 15-30 years on average. Factors Affecting […]

Are wooden stairs durable?

Unveiling the Durability of Wooden Stairs: Are they Right for Your Home? Brief Summary Absolutely, wooden stairs can be incredibly durable. When constructed with the right materials and maintained properly, a wooden staircase can easily last for decades, even generations. However, like any building material, the lifespan and performance of wooden stairs depend heavily on […]

When should I install stairs?

Timing Your Staircase Installation: A Critical Decision in the Building Process Brief Summary Ideally, a staircase should be one of the last elements installed in a new construction or remodel project, typically a few days before occupancy. This timing minimizes the risk of damage to the finished staircase and ensures accurate measurements for a seamless […]

Is installing carpet on stairs hard?

Is Installing Carpet on Stairs Difficult? A Closer Look at the Process Brief Summary Yes, installing carpet on stairs can be considered challenging, especially when compared to installing it on a flat surface. It involves precise measurements, intricate cuts, and working in a less ergonomic environment. While doable for DIY enthusiasts with patience and attention […]

Can you use wood flooring for stair treads?

Can You Use Wood Flooring for Stair Treads? Understanding the Implications Brief Summary Technically, yes, you can use wood flooring planks for stair treads. However, while it’s possible, it’s not the most recommended approach for a durable and long-lasting staircase. Hardwood flooring is designed primarily for flat surfaces and might not offer the same structural […]

How much wood should show on stairs with runner?

Striking the Balance: How Much Wood to Expose with a Stair Runner Brief Summary A common guideline is to expose approximately 4 inches of the stair tread on each side of the runner. This creates a visually appealing border and allows the natural beauty of the wood or tile to shine through. However, the ideal […]

How long do stairs need to be to go up 8 feet?

Calculating Staircase Length for an 8-Foot Rise Brief Summary To ascend 8 feet, a staircase typically requires a horizontal length (or ‘run’) between 11 feet (132 inches) and 14 feet (168 inches). This range accounts for variations in stair design, primarily tread depth (the horizontal part of the step) and riser height (the vertical part […]