Framing Basement Stairs

So, you need to build a new staircase for your basement? Perhaps you need to change the already dilapidated stair going down under?

Framing basement stairs is necessary in building or re-building your basement stairs. It is ideal in your decision to renovate your basement – perhaps to turn it into your teenager’s room? Or a family room?

Whatever transformation you have in mind, you would definitely need to know a little knowledge when it comes to construction and measurements.

First of all, you should not go through with installing your staircase without professional help or at least a knowledgeable friend. You can either work with the existing hole or cut it out to fit your new staircase. And since you might be using other materials, you might want to consult a carpenter or do it yourself manuals from a nearby craft or carpentry shop.

Nowadays, staircase kits are already sold in carpentry and online staircase installation shops. All you have to do is to buy the kit and other necessary tools and extra lumber or other building materials. Make sure that you have a checklist so you would not need to return to the shop again to buy additional materials.

Next step is to proceed to framing basement stairs. One classic technique is to tie a bolt or a nut or any small material that is a little heavy to a string.

From the upper floor (where the top of the stairs should be placed), you can dangle the string with the bolt. Lower it gently until it touches the floor. You must then mark that place. This is where your stair will start/end. Do the same to the other end to mark both sides.

After that, if you have a kit then you would just need to take it out and install it in accordance to the instructions, with adjustments to fit your hole or room.

However, if you plan to do it the hard way, then you would have to cut the wood or metal first and then build the stairs from scratch. After installing the steps, you then attach the railings to complete framing basement stairs.