Staircase Calculator

Steps, riser height, and total run for building a staircase.

Quick answer: Free Staircase Calculator. Find exact step counts, riser heights, and total run for a code-compliant staircase automatically.

in
in
in
Number of steps15
Actual riser height7"
Total run (horizontal)13.75 ft
Stair angle32.5°
NoteBuilding code: risers 7–7¾", treads min 10". Verify with local code.

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Calculate the number of steps, exact riser height, total run, and stair angle for a staircase that meets standard building code proportions.

How it works

  1. Measure and enter the total vertical rise (floor-to-floor).
  2. Provide your desired target riser height (usually ~7 inches).
  3. Enter your desired tread depth to find the exact number of required steps.

Frequently asked questions

What are code-compliant riser dimensions?

Most codes require risers between 4 and 7.75 inches and treads of at least 10 inches. Riser + tread should total roughly 17-18 inches.

Why is my actual riser different from my target?

Steps must divide evenly into total rise, so the calculator rounds to the nearest whole step and recalculates exactly.

What angle is most comfortable?

30-35 degrees is easy and comfortable. 40-45 degrees is steeper but space-efficient. Above 50 degrees feels ladder-like.

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