Step 1, Take delivery and store stairs

Stairs are delivered to site part assembled. The handrail, newel posts, capping and spindles etc are supplied loose for fitting and assembly on site.

Until time for assembly. All the parts should be stored in a clean dry area where they will not get damaged.

An independent learner should be able to identify the parts shown.

Step 2, Start assembly of staircase by fitting notching newel post

The first job is to mark out, cut and fit the top newel post over the joist. A snug fit here ensures the finished stairs and handrail are very secure.

While working in this area it is also possible to rebate the top nosing over the joist so the top edge is flush with the finished floorboards.

Ensure when setting out at this stage to create a small gap (around 10mm) between the rear of the top riser and the trimmer joist to allow for squaring up the stair if the well proves out of true after first fitting.

Step 3, Cut bottom of wall string

Next you need to cut the bottom of the wall string to fit against the floor and intersect with any skirting board.

Step 4, Cut top of wall string

Next you need to cut the top of the wall string. The actual detail and cut will depend on the installation of the stairs. If the wall, on which the wall string rests, continues above the upper floor then the string will run up above the floor and will be cut to intersect and join with the skirting. If there is no wall above the floor the string is cut around the nosing to enable it to be fitted against the apron lining detail nosing and capping.

Step 4a, Cut top of wall string Alternative

If the wall that the stairs are against continues above the floor into the next storey. Then the wall string of the stairs will need to be cut to intersect with the skirting board that will be fixed against that wall.

Step 5, Fit the newel posts, hand rail and bull nose step

Now before we can lift the stairs into position you need to fit the newel posts, handrail and bull nose step if there is one.

Traditionally the newel posts are held with ‘draw dowels’ although special location and tightening devices are now popular for fixing the handrail.

Remember the handrails and newel joints need to be tight to cope with people leaning against them.

Step 6, Lift the stairs into position and fix in place

Now you can lift the stairs into position and fix them in place. The top newel post can be bolted or screwed through the joist. Some people fix the bottom newel to the floor. You can fix through the underside of the wall string into the wall if you feel it is necessary. The main fixing is the top newel to the joist, getting this tight means the newel post will cope with people leaning against it when using the stairs.

Use a spirit level to check that the treads are level from to back and side to side. Check the newel posts are plumb in both directions.

Step 7, Set out, measure, cut and fit spindle balustrade

Next you need to fit the spindle balustrading. The Building Regulations approved document K has precise limits to the distance between the spindles and the building inspector always wants to check these.

To look right, the spacing’s between the spindles should be equal. The shop joiner might have set out the exact spacing while working out how many spindles you need. If not you can use the underside of the string capping to set out the exact spacing so you get them equal. They are held in place with spacer pieces glued and or pinned top and bottom.

Step 8, Set out, fit and fix landing guarding handrail and spindles

Now that the stairs are in place and finished you need to turn your attention to the landing guarding. Again the Building Regulations part K is specific about guarding of landings.

While you have access, first cut and notch the newel posts over the joists. Then fit the apron lining and nosing to match the top nosing on the stairs.

Now you can fit the handrail and the capping that retains the spindles directly underneath the handrail. Set out and fix the spindles to match those in the stairs.

Because the stairs are installed as a first fix operation, to provide access for other trades to the upper level, it is necessary to protect the stairs from damage. No client is going to be happy with scrapes, spelches and damaged arrises.