When it comes to building stairs, one of the most important steps is cutting the stair stringers. The stair stringers are the support structure for the stairs, and they need to be cut accurately to ensure a sturdy and safe staircase. Choosing the right saw for this task is crucial, as it can make the difference between a flawless cut and a jagged mess.
There are several types of saws that can be used to cut stair stringers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One popular option is the circular saw. This saw is known for its versatility and ability to make precise cuts. It can easily cut through a variety of materials, including wood, which makes it a great choice for cutting stair stringers.
Another option is the miter saw, which is specifically designed for making angled cuts. This saw is ideal for cutting the angles needed to create the stair stringers. It provides a smooth and precise cut, ensuring that each step is perfectly aligned. However, miter saws can be more expensive than circular saws and may not be as versatile for other cutting tasks.
Why I Choose the Circular Saw for Cutting Stair Stringers
When it comes to cutting stair stringers, I have found that the circular saw is the best tool for the job. I have tried various saws in the past, but the circular saw consistently delivers the cleanest and most precise cuts.
The circular saw is a versatile tool that can be easily adjusted to different cutting depths, making it ideal for cutting stair stringers of various thicknesses. Its powerful motor and sharp blade allow me to effortlessly cut through the tough materials used in stair stringers, such as pressure-treated lumber or hardwood.
One of the reasons I prefer the circular saw over other saws is its portability. As a DIY enthusiast, I often work on projects in different locations, and the circular saw’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport. Whether I’m working in my garage or at a friend’s house, I can always rely on the circular saw to get the job done.
The circular saw also offers a high level of control and precision. Its ergonomic design and comfortable grip allow me to guide the saw along the cut line with ease, ensuring that I make accurate cuts every time. Additionally, the circular saw’s adjustable bevel and tilt capabilities enable me to create angled cuts for stair stringers that require intricate designs or complex angles.
In conclusion, the circular saw is my go-to tool for cutting stair stringers due to its versatility, portability, and precision. It provides clean and precise cuts, even through tough materials, and allows me to create customized designs with ease. Whether you’re a professional carpenter or a DIY enthusiast, I highly recommend adding a circular saw to your tool collection.
Miter Saw
As a professional carpenter, I understand the importance of having the right tools for the job. When it comes to cutting stair stringers, one of the best tools in my arsenal is a miter saw. This versatile tool allows me to make precise and angled cuts, resulting in clean and accurate stair stringers.
A miter saw is a power tool that has a circular blade mounted on a pivoting arm. It is designed to make crosscuts and miters at various angles, making it perfect for cutting stair stringers. With its adjustable angles and sliding feature, a miter saw allows me to make accurate cuts on both straight and angled stair stringers. It also has a built-in laser guide and marking system, which helps me achieve precision and consistency in my cuts.
When choosing a miter saw for cutting stair stringers, there are a few features that I look for. Firstly, a powerful motor is essential, as it ensures that the blade cuts through the material effortlessly. Secondly, a large cutting capacity is important, as it allows me to work with a wide range of sizes and thicknesses of stair stringers. Finally, a sturdy and stable base is crucial for safety and accuracy.
In conclusion, a miter saw is an indispensable tool for cutting stair stringers. Its ability to make precise and angled cuts makes it the perfect tool for this task. With its powerful motor, large cutting capacity, and stable base, a miter saw is a reliable and efficient choice for any carpenter or DIY enthusiast.
Jigsaw
When it comes to cutting stair stringers, one tool that I highly recommend is a jigsaw. A jigsaw is a versatile power tool that is perfect for cutting out intricate shapes and curves in various materials, including wood. What makes the jigsaw an excellent choice for cutting stair stringers is its ability to make precise and accurate cuts that are needed for creating the angles and dimensions required for stair construction.
The jigsaw features a reciprocating blade that moves in an up-and-down motion. This allows for quick and efficient cutting through the wood, even in tight spots or along curved lines. The jigsaw’s blade can be easily adjusted to different angles, making it ideal for cutting the angled edges required for stair stringers. The ability to make bevel cuts with a jigsaw allows for the accurate cutting of the necessary angles for stair construction.
When using a jigsaw to cut stair stringers, it is important to choose the right blade for the job. A fine-toothed blade is recommended for cutting wood, as it provides cleaner and smoother cuts. Additionally, using a guide or marking the desired cut lines on the material can help ensure accuracy and precision. It is also important to take the necessary safety precautions when using a jigsaw, such as wearing safety goggles and keeping hands and fingers away from the blade.
In conclusion, a jigsaw is an excellent tool for cutting stair stringers due to its versatility, ability to make precision cuts, and adjustability for cutting angles. With the right blade and proper safety precautions, using a jigsaw can make the process of cutting stair stringers easier and more efficient.
Table Saw
In conclusion, a table saw is a versatile and efficient tool for cutting stair stringers. Its large flat surface and powerful motor make it ideal for making straight, precise cuts. The fence and miter gauge on a table saw allow for easy and accurate adjustments, ensuring that each cut is clean and uniform.
When choosing a table saw for cutting stair stringers, it is important to consider the size of the saw, the power of its motor, and the quality of its fence and miter gauge. A portable table saw with a compact design may be more suitable for DIY projects, while a larger, heavier table saw with a more powerful motor is better suited for professional use.
Regardless of which table saw you choose, it is essential to take proper safety precautions when operating the tool. Always wear protective eyewear and keep your hands away from the blade. Additionally, make sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for safe and effective use.
In summary, a table saw is an excellent choice for cutting stair stringers due to its size, power, and precision. By selecting the right table saw and taking safety precautions, you can easily and accurately cut stair stringers for your next project.
10 Best Saw To Cut Stair Stringers
Stair Stringers Cutting Layout Tool
Features
| Part Number | SZG-01 |
| Model | SZG-01 |
| Color | Cyan |
- Just four steps to cut a set of stair stringers:measure height,online calculate,draw lines,and cut,even non-professionals can make stair stringers
- Intelligent calculation of common stair construction board specifications (2x12,5/4x6,2x6,1x8,5/4x6),easy and flexible,and can be matched in various ways
- The step run limits are 10" to 11-1/2" deep,The step rise limits are 5" to 7-3/4" tall.The online calculator gives you different variables to choose from to adjust the stairs to your needs
- Anodized aluminum alloy material,sturdy,the manual will guide the use in detail
- This cutting layout tool complies with The International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Building Code (IBC) contain regarding wood-framed stair
Woodhaven 8715 Deluxe Stair Gauge Kit
Features
| Part Number | 8715 |
| Model | 8715 |
- Woodhaven Deluxe Stair Guages are used to layout stair stringers, skirt boards and more. Works on stairs with an angle as low as 26º, which is 4º lower than regular stair gauges can register. 3/8” thick gauge body indexes against the edge of the stringer for double the bearing surface of most gauges. Not affected by the radiused edge of the stringer!
- Best stair layout tool ever! Our Deluxe Stair Gauges eleminate all the problems of other stair gauges like small knobs that come loose and short indexing edges that don’t register against the work correctly. Our Deluxe Stair Gauges feature 1” long “legs”, allowing you to make a short layout line at a right angle to the tread and riser line. This eliminates guessing where the tread and riser marks intersect and makes it easy to index the square precisely to the next position.
- Fits any steel or aluminum framing square you supply with a blade up to .125" thick. Includes two gauges machined from solid phenolic - one for the 2” wide leg of your framing square and the other for the 1-1/2” wide leg. Easy to use large diameter knobs with brass screws hold the gauges firmly in position. Framing square not included.
- Includes a 24” long aluminum fence (optional use) to span voids and damaged edges. Plus it connects the two Deluxe Stair Gauges together for extra insurance against getting knocked out of position.
- Lifetime guarantee against defects in material or workmanship. Made in the USA!
DNB Tools PL200 Stair Wizard
Features
| Part Number | PL200 |
| Model | PL200 |
| Color | Brown |
- For all types of treads-hardwood, rubber, vinyl, etc.
- Creates a complete template of each tread and riser then guides you to a
- Perfect cut--reduces installation time by 40-50%
- A beautiful easy to use tool. Hand crafted out of Sipo Mahogany.
- Folds up for compact storage, comes with a rugged case.
3 Packs Metal Stair Step Stringers, 4 Step Steel Riser Stringer for 34.7inch Height Deck(Matt Black)
Features
| Part Number | yeezoo |
| Color | Matt Black |
| Size | 4 Steps |
- [Build your 4 steps staircase]: The 4 step metal riser could create steps for your hot tub, add steps to a door or to the deck, drop down into the backyard or get into the proch. The metal 4 stairs stringers could be widely used and bring more convenience to our daily life.
- [Sturdy & reliable steel step riser]: The stair riser support was made of 2mm thickness heavy duty metal, 3.5mm thickness step brackets are one-piece molded. Then fully weled the support and brackets. It's much superior and will last longer than wooden risers.
- [Easy job to model portable steps]: We included almost all necessary elements to build a staircase. Tapping screws to fix the treads, drill bit to drill holes for fixing expansion screws, a wrench to tighten the screws. Building a modern look steps won't be that hard.
- [High quality finished surface]: The metal steps stringers were sturdy with 3 layers of black powder coating. This makes the surface not only smooth to the touch, but also can be used in both interior and exterior scenarios, and will last longer.
- [Rest assured to purchase riser] The 2 step riser is suitable for 19.5inch height deck, there are four pre-drilled holes for fixing the treads and holes location makes it easier to screw in compared with others. Please freely reach out to us if you have any question, we will work it out for you until your satisfaction.
DIYHD Steel Stair Riser 7 Steps Black Stair Stringer for Deck Height 58in,Powder Coated Black,MAX Load Capacity:500lbs,1 Pack
Features
| Part Number | QT-FT-1Pack |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 7 Steps |
- Material:Steel;Surface:Corrosion resistant powder coated black.
- The package includes 7 step steel stair riserX1,Set screws for concrete wall,Set screws for wooden treads.
- The kit do not include wooden treads!
- Easy for installation,pre-drilled all necessary holes on the stringer.
- MAX load capacity:500lbs
FAQ:
What is the best saw to cut stair stringers?
The best saw to cut stair stringers is a circular saw. It allows for precise and straight cuts on the stringer.
Is a miter saw suitable for cutting stair stringers?
A miter saw can be used to cut stair stringers, but it is not the most ideal tool. It may be more difficult to make precise cuts and ensure the correct angles.
Can a reciprocating saw be used to cut stair stringers?
A reciprocating saw is not the best option for cutting stair stringers. It is more commonly used for demolition work and cutting through materials such as wood, metal, or plastic.
Should I use a hand saw or a power saw to cut stair stringers?
It is recommended to use a power saw, such as a circular saw, to cut stair stringers. This will provide more control and precision in cutting the stringers.
What are some important safety precautions when using a saw to cut stair stringers?
When using a saw to cut stair stringers, it is important to wear safety goggles, gloves, and hearing protection. Additionally, make sure to secure the stringer before cutting and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best saw to cut stair stringers is essential for a smooth and accurate construction process. Whether it’s a circular saw, a miter saw, or a reciprocating saw, each tool has its advantages and disadvantages. It ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user. However, it is important to consider factors such as power, precision, versatility, and safety when making a decision. Whichever saw is chosen, taking the necessary precautions and proper technique is key to achieving the desired results. By selecting the right saw and employing the right techniques, cutting stair stringers can become a much easier and efficient task.
