Building stairs doesn’t have to be slow or complicated — but it does have to be right. In this video, I’ll show you how I calculate, lay out, and cut stair stringers using PWT LVL instead of traditional 2x12s. We’ll go step-by-step through total rise, tread and riser adjustments, cutting techniques, and the best way to glue and nail everything so your stairs are strong, safe, and squeak-free for decades. This method saves time without sacrificing craftsmanship. Whether you’re a builder, DIYer, or just love learning how things are built right, this one’s for you.

👉 Subscribe for more real-world framing and building science videos.
📸 Follow on Instagram: @awesomeframers
💬 Drop your stair-building questions in the comments below.

⏱️ Chapters:

• 0:00 Intro — Fast, Accurate, Squeak-Free
• 0:48 Finding Total Rise (Finish Floor to Finish Floor)
• 2:15 Dividing Rise and Run with the Calculator
• 4:40 Adjusting for Tread & Riser Material
• 7:00 Drawing the Layout & Avoiding Accumulated Error
• 9:30 Why I Use LVL Instead of 2x12s
• 11:45 Cutting Multiple Stringers at Once
• 13:20 Installing Risers & Treads with Adhesive
• 15:10 Nailing for Strength and Silence (TetraGrip Tips)
• 17:45 Pro Tricks to Eliminate Squeaks
• 20:00 Fast ≠ Sloppy — Craftsmanship Mindset
• 21:45 Wrap-Up & Why Stairs Deserve Extra Care