Swedish Cope
Log Home / Cabin Construction Guide

LOG STAIRS AND RAILING INSTALLATION

• LOG STAIRS AND LOG RAILING: Log stairs utilize round log stringers that have been notched to fit half log stair treads (steps). You will need to cut the log stringers at the job site in order to fit the landing and floor. When installing a stair set, the rise is typically fixed and cannot be altered. It is likely that the run of the stair stringers will need to be adjusted in order to meet code for proper rise and run. Most residential building codes currently require a minimum run of 10" and a maximum rise of 7 3/4" from step to step. The rise and run from teh floor to the first step, each step to each step, and the last step to the landing needs to be equal. The standard stair stringer we manufacture is notched at 12 1/2" on center to fit the half log treads. This spacing is very versatile and can be used to meet code in most situations as long as the run can be adjusted. The run in most homes is somewhat adjustable but if the run in your home cannot be adjusted than you may need to order a custom notch spacing.

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  The log stairs should be installed in order to afford for a comfortable 10 1/8" run and a 7 3/8" rise from step to step. Log stair sets are very flexible for angle changes because the notch and the half log tread are round. This means the tread can roll in the notch to be level for whatever angle the stringer is installed at.

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  We recommend using an adhesive such as a subfloor adhesive in addition to using bolts when fastening the stair stringers and the stair treads. Using an adhesive will help to keep the bolts from wiggling loose over time with stair use.

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BASIC LOG RAILING INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Install railing in accordance with applicable building codes. Install top and bottom rails first. Next, install spindles by plunging them into the top rail hole as far as possible. Then you should be able to swing the bottom of the spindle over the hole into the bottom rail. Pull the spindle down until it rests in the bottom of the bottom rail. Repeat this procedure until all spindles are in place. Use a 4" round object to check spacing. For hand peeled railing, you may have to switch spindles or rotate spindles until a 4" round object will not pass through. Screw or glue all rails and spindles in place depending on building codes.
Helpful Hints for Log Railing Installation:
• Top rail holes are drilled deeper for easier installation.
• Bottom rail holes are drilled shallow at about 1 1/4" deep.
• Center of bottom rail should be 5 1/2" above deck for correct bottom rail to deck clearance.
• For our standard residential height railing the top rail should be centered 36 1/2" from deck.
• Install bottom rail then top rail before installing spindles.
• To install spindles lift onto top rail hole (deeper) then drp into bottom rail hole.
• Do not fasten rails or spindles until all spindles have been placed into the rails and everything is checked for proper assembly in the section.
• Hand peeled railing will vary in diameter. Watch your spacing carefully to ensure it meets local building codes.