Tell it the total rise — floor to floor — and how deep you
want each step, and it works out how many rises you need, how many treads that gives, the height of
each riser and how far the stair will project into the room. It draws the section as you type, so you
can see the stair before anyone cuts anything. Every figure is indicative; we confirm the final
geometry when we quote.
How do I measure my stairs?
Heritage Decorative Timber needs three measurements for an external stair:
the total rise from finished ground or floor level to the top of the
deck or landing, the width across the treads, and the available
going or projection. Measure in millimetres. Enter the total rise and
preferred tread depth below; the calculator shows the suggested rises, number of
treads, riser height and how far the flight projects. The result is an indicative
starting point, and the workshop confirms the final geometry when it quotes.
Does Heritage have a stair price calculator?
Yes. This page works out the stair geometry. The separate
stair-kit price calculator in the shop
uses the number of steps, kit width and timber choice to look up the applicable kit
price. The published calculator covers LOSP treated pine and Merbau; ask the
workshop to quote CCA. Select a complete kit, stringers, sawtooth support or
flight component. Published figures are
indicative, include GST and exclude delivery; made-to-order details are confirmed
in the written quotation.
What does a worked stair example look like?
For an illustrative 3,000 mm total rise, 900 mm
kit width and 240 mm tread depth, this calculator
suggests 17 rises, 16 treads, an indicative riser height of about 176 mm and
a projection of 3,840 mm. It is an example of the output, not project advice;
the workshop confirms the final geometry when it quotes.
The calculator
mm
The full vertical height the stair has to climb.
mm
The width across the stair — the length each tread is cut to.
Indicative only — we confirm the final geometry when we quote240 residential · 290 premium & wide
NextWhat it costs
Now put a price on it
This page works out the shape of the stair. The price depends on the
timber and the width, and those are on their own pages — every kit is priced by
the number of steps, so the step count above is the number you need.
Buying questions (10)How do I measure for an outdoor timber stair kit?
Measure vertically from the finished lower surface to the finished deck or landing. Record the available horizontal distance and desired clear width, and indicate whether either finished surface will change.
What is a timber stair stringer?
A stringer is a sloped member that supports the treads of a stair flight. If you’re ordering stringers separately, check their rise, going, tread fixing method and how the top and bottom attach.
What should I check is included in a DIY timber stair kit?
Ask for a parts list that identifies the stringers, treads, fixings and any centre support. Confirm separately whether landings, handrails and balustrades are included in the quote.
What measurements do I enter into a stair calculator?
Start with the finished vertical rise and the available horizontal run where the calculator requests it. Treat the result as planning information and have the site and final layout checked before ordering.
How do I allow room for the bottom landing of outdoor stairs?
Mark the stair’s projected run on the ground and show the space beyond the last tread. Flag nearby doors, paths and grade changes so the finished landing arrangement can be assessed.
Can I replace a single damaged outdoor stair stringer?
Have the existing flight assessed for damage and connection condition. To identify a replacement, provide the complete flight rise and run, the original member section and close-ups of the tread and end fixings.
Can a straight stair kit work where the stair needs to turn?
A straight flight covers one direction. A turn requires a planned landing or another configuration. Send the plan, clear space and total finished rise before choosing a kit.
When should I compare a pre-assembled stair flight with a kit?
Compare access, handling and the amount of site assembly needed. Check the finished flight dimensions and whether the completed section can be moved into place, then request both supply scopes if suitable.
What is the difference between total rise and individual riser height?
Total rise is the full vertical difference between finished levels. Individual riser height is the vertical step between successive treads or levels.
Should I remeasure the stair rise after paving or decking?
Check the final finished levels before ordering. Changes in paving or decking thickness affect the total rise.