Calculate code-compliant stair dimensions
Building code-compliant stairs requires careful calculation of rise and run. This calculator ensures your stairs meet safety standards.
The 7-11 Rule: Maximum rise 7.75", minimum run 10". This is the building code standard for residential stairs.
Code Requirements:
• Rise: 4" minimum, 7.75" maximum
• Run: 10" minimum
• All risers must be equal (±3/8")
• All treads must be equal (±3/8")
Total Rise: Measure from finished floor to finished floor (include flooring thickness).
Stringer Length: The diagonal length of the stair stringer, calculated using the Pythagorean theorem.
How to use: Enter the total vertical rise. The calculator finds the optimal number of steps and checks code compliance. You can specify exact number of steps if needed.