Stair Calculator

Use our free Stair Calculator to quickly estimate stair rise, run, and total steps, based on inputs like total height and desired step dimensions. Perfect for homeowners, carpenters, and contractors.

Stair Calculation Formula

Number of Steps = Total Height ÷ Riser Height\nTotal Run = Number of Steps × Tread Depth\nStair Length = √(Total Height² + Total Run²) ÷ 12 (feet)
Example:
Total Height = 120 inches; Riser Height = 7.5 inches; Tread Depth = 10 inches\n\nSteps = 120 ÷ 7.5 = 16 steps\n\nTotal Run = 16 × 10 = 160 inches (13.3 ft)\n\nStair Length = √(120² + 160²) ÷ 12 ≈ 20.0 ft

Accurate stair calculations ensure safe, code-compliant design. Using this calculator avoids costly mistakes and helps estimate material needs.

How this stair calculator works

This calculator uses stair design formulas to determine the number of risers, treads, and total run length based on total rise (floor-to-floor height). It ensures riser heights and tread depths stay within building code standards for safety and comfort.

When to use this stair calculator

Planning new stair construction for homes or decks

Estimating materials needed for stair projects

Ensuring riser height and tread depth meet building codes

Remodeling or replacing existing staircases

Comparing stair layouts for space planning

Want to make your stair projects smarter?

Use ServiceAgent.ai to automate estimates, manage proposals, and track profitability—all from one dashboard.

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Average Profit Margins by Industry

Understand how stair building compares across service industries. Below are typical profit margin ranges:

Carpentry/Joinery Contractors

20–35%
net margin

Roofing Contractors

20–40%
net margin

HVAC Contractors

10–20%
net margin

Plumbing Contractors

20–35%
net margin

Electrical Contractors

15–25%
net margin

Cleaning Services

50–70%
net margin

Lawn Care

40–60%
net margin

General Construction/Contracting

15–30%
net margin

These benchmarks help contractors and homeowners evaluate whether stair project costs are competitive and profitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

It provides a reliable estimate using standard stair formulas. Actual design may vary by code requirements and material choices.

Total rise, riser height, tread depth, and available floor space.

No—this calculator is best for straight-run stairs. Specialized formulas are needed for curved designs.

Definitely. It helps generate quick material estimates for project bids.

No—this tool only calculates risers, treads, and stair run. Add railings and landings separately.

Typical riser height = 7–7.75 inches; tread depth = 10–11 inches (check local codes).

Always round up, then slightly adjust riser height to keep steps even.

Pair it with ServiceAgent.ai to generate automated stair estimates, proposals, and cost tracking.