Stair Calculator with Diagram
Free stair calculator with a printable SVG diagram. See every step with rise, run, stringer angle, tread nose overhang, and total dimensions — ready to print on letter paper.
Side Profile — Scale Drawing
Total Rise: 108.00" | Total Run: 130.00" | Angle: 39.7° | Width: 36"
Materials Summary
How It Works
1. Enter dimensions — total rise (floor to floor), run per step, stair width, tread thickness, and nose overhang.
2. View the diagram — the SVG shows a detailed side-profile elevation of your staircase with every step drawn to scale. Rise and run measurements appear on select steps to keep the drawing clean.
3. Check the details — the diagram labels the stringer angle, total rise, total run, floor lines, and tread nosing projection. Dimensions are shown in both inches and feet.
4. Print it — click “Print Diagram” for a clean printout. The diagram uses construction-drawing styling with dimension lines and leader arrows, suitable for job-site reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print the stair diagram?
Yes. Click the "Print Diagram" button to open your browser's print dialog. The diagram is optimized for letter-size paper (8.5" × 11") in landscape or portrait orientation. The SVG scales cleanly to any paper size without losing quality.
What is tread nose overhang?
The tread nose (or nosing) is the part of the tread that extends beyond the riser face. IRC code requires a minimum 3/4" and maximum 1-1/4" nosing projection (R311.7.5.3). A 1" overhang is standard. Nosing provides extra foot room and reduces the chance of slipping.
How thick should stair treads be?
Standard stair treads are 1" thick for hardwood (oak, maple) or 1-1/16" for softwood. Pre-made stair treads from home improvement stores are typically 1" to 1-1/8" thick. For open (unsupported) treads wider than 36", use 1-1/2" or thicker material to prevent flex.
What angle should stairs be?
Residential stairs typically range from 30° to 37°. An angle of 33°-35° is considered ideal for comfort. Stairs steeper than 37° start to feel uncomfortable, while stairs below 30° take up excessive floor space. The angle is determined by the rise/run ratio.