How to connect Pre-Manufactured Stair Stringers together.

For a 10' rise, I need to make stair stringers.The stair stringer is 18 to 20 feet long.Only 16' 2 X 12's are available.Is it okay to shorten them?How do I know if that is the case?

Most building supply yards sell lumber to 20'.Home improvement stores, etc.Only sell popular lengths.

According to the code, you can build a set of stairs to a maximum total rise of 12'.I would use a 2x12 on each side of the joint and a 4' on the other side to make a stair stringer.If you want to layout the opposite side, put the splice on one side.If you want to lay the splice out, tack it in place.You can cut out the stair stringer.Then screw or nail it together.

In my How to build stairs articles, I mentioned that you should support the stair stringer with posts to take the bounce out.

I'm Dave.I enjoyed working with apprentices and sharing the tricks of the trade that others shared with me after 50 years as a journeyman carpenter, foreman and contractor.We include many of my answers in our Free Monthly Newsletters because I get emails from Members all over the world.drawings and instructions specific to a project are included in some of my answers.I use correct construction terminology so you can tell your building supply dealers exactly what you need.