DIY Network

Lighter on Their Feet From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-311F

	The large -- but unused -- attic space.
	Don Lighter with the current staircase -- to narrow and unsafe.
	Amy Devers and Sally Lighter discuss the project while looking at a scale replica of the planned three-landing staircase.

Don and Sally Lighter have a spacious, yet unused, attic space. The staircase leading to the attic is more like a ladder, and is hazardous to climb. The Lighters call on the DIY to the Rescue crew to help them build a safe, useable staircase so they can finally make good use of the space.

The crew plans to:

• Remove old steps and joists

• Teach the Lighters the basics of stair design

• Cut stair pieces and build the staircase in sections

• Assemble the steps

First, Amy Devers gives Sally Lighter a lesson in staircase calculation and design.

Calculating Stair Dimensions

• Measure from landing to landing. Use formula to figure the number of steps for each: distance from landing to landing divided by ideal tread height (7.5") = number of steps (rounded to nearest whole number).

• Stair Riser Height Formula: Landing to landing height divided by number of stairs = riser height. Diagram the stairs on paper to decide the number of landings needed.