Building Stairs (For Pros By Pros)

I'm a DIYer that's done just about everything but I've never built stairs. I've watched countless videos, read articles, on and on trying to get the full picture of what's involved, what type I'd like to build, etc.I've purchased 5 different books, this was the last one I bought and it had the best level of detail on exactly how to do it.It took a lot to give me the confidence to go ahead with it. I'm very particular, strive for perfect work and I was able to get the info I needed to do that with this book.When you spend over $1000 on nice stair treads and risers, you don't want to have to re-do something because you messed up. I went with routed stringers, followed the plans to make a template/jig, planned it all out and this book made far more sense than many of the other books on the subject.If you're looking for books on stairs you've likely seen the publisher that has like 20 different books about stairs. They are mostly nothing but picture books giving you ideas but don't talk about the details you need to really get it done. For someone that's never built stairs before, it's pretty intimidating. It took this book to make me fully understand every aspect of the process. Well worth it.

Very helpful good job at deciding how to do things

Covers all the basics and on to advanced techniques. Compared to other books on this Ive seen, this one is by far the best.

I consider myself as a serious DIY with attention to detail. I have remodeled nearly every room in the house. Built the cabinets, plumbing, wiring, tile, hardwood floors and windows.When it came time to replace the stairs, I looked through my collection of Fine Homebuilding and didn't find much help. I purchased a DVD from TheStairGuy.com. It is not worth the time or the money.My wife purchased two books for Christmas for me. This one and Stairs & Railings step by step projects.The book Building Stairs is an excellent book that covers all aspects of construction and trimming out the stairs. It is comprehensive and easy to follow. I highly recommend it.The book Stairs & Railings is advertised as a quick guide and that is what it is. It goes into less detail than Building Stairs. But it still is a good book and complements the other book.Gary

I bought two other stair building books before this one. I'm a carpenter by necessity, a woodworker by hobby, and an architect by trade. This book offers practical guidance in building all common aspects of stair building. I don't own the Fine Homebuilding book yet, but this is the best by far of the other two avaliable books. Buy this one if you want to learn how to build stairs.

Our library didn't have a single book on building stairs. Bought this and it is really well written and photographed. Lots of great pictures and the writing is fantastic. I would recommend this easily to anyone dealing with stairs. I moved the stairs in my house and this helped me a lot. I'd donate it to my library if I was ensured they'd add it to the shelf/catalog, but for now I'm keeping it for future reference.

Good read and good knowledge shared

I was interested in this book as reference material for future projects. I prefer millwork style of mortised stairs; but this book dealt with so much more, including winders, handrails/balusters and newel post installation. I don’t like to think back on what I might have done differently, so another knowledgeable perspective is usually appreciated. Admittedly, there was a definite advantage to purchasing this through the Used Books portion of Amazon, especially considering the New Condition I received.Who would I recommend this book to? I like detailed, professional results; and this goes along those lines. The building trades are a developed skill, constantly requiring attention and discipline. I consider this book suitable for the skilled artisan, developing those techniques that will ensure repeat demand for good business.