Replicate Stringers (Pattern Use)

What happens in this clip

Once the first stringer is perfectly cut, mark it with a 'P' (for pattern) to easily identify it. Use this first stringer as a master template to mark all subsequent stringer boards. Lay the 'P' stringer directly onto a new stringer board, align it carefully, and trace its outline with a pencil. This method ensures that all stringers are identical in dimensions, eliminating the need to re-measure and recalculate for each one, which saves time and prevents compounding errors.

Goal: Efficiently create multiple identical stair stringers

What's used

Tools

• Cut Stringer (Pattern) DIY
• Pencil Stanley
• Marker

Materials

• New Treated Lumber Board

About the full video

This project demonstrates an easy method for cutting stair stringers for a deck or other outdoor structure. It involves calculating the required rise and run, creating a simple wooden jig to mark the cuts accurately, and then using circular and reciprocating saws to cut the stringers. The method emphasizes using the initial stringer as a pattern to ensure consistency across multiple stringers, simplifying the process and avoiding complex mathematical calculations for each cut.

Step 5 of 6: Transfer Layout and Cut Additional Stringers

With the first stringer accurately cut, use it as a template to mark the layout on your other stringer boards. Lay the first stringer on top of a new 2x12 board, aligning the edges precisely. Trace the lines of the first stringer onto the second board. Repeat this for all required stringers (typically two to three, depending on the width of your stairs). Once marked, cut the additional stringers following the same procedure as the first, ensuring all cuts are clean and accurate. Having identical stringers is crucial for stable and level stairs.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Lay Out and Cut Deck Stair Stringers

1. Step 1: Determine Stair Riser Height and Tread Depth

   • 0:06–1:32 Calculate Stair Dimensions
   • 0:19–0:57 Calculate Stair Dimensions and Stringer Type
   • 0:51–1:37 Calculate Individual Step Rise and Total Run

2. Step 2: Select Stringer Material

   • 0:00–0:03 Cut Stringers
   • 6:08–6:51 Stair Stringer Fabrication
   • 2:20–3:14 Mark and Cut Stringers

3. Step 3: Mark the First Stringer Layout

   • 3:10–3:59 Mark the Stringer Board
   • 6:59–9:34 Mark the Stair Stringer for Cutting
   • 6:12–7:01 Marking the Stringers

4. Step 4: Cut the First Stringer

   • 6:15–7:14 Cut Out the Stringer
   • 4:16–5:49 Cut Stringers
   • 15:12–19:27 Cutting the Stair Stringer

5. Step 5: Transfer Layout and Cut Additional Stringers

   • 8:43–8:58 Cutting Remaining Stringers using Template
   • 7:14–7:47 Replicate Stringers (Pattern Use) (this video)
   • 2:49–3:44 Layout and Cut Stringers

6. Step 6: Trim the Bottom of the Stringers

   • 7:25–10:59 Mark Top and Bottom Stringer Cuts
   • 7:30–8:22 Check and Adjust First Stringer
   • 8:10–9:35 Mark Top and Bottom Stringer Cuts