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Pythagorean theorem
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Calculators / Construction / Stair design
Stair design calculator
Calculate riser height and going from total rise, run and step count.
On this page
Riser height17.5same length unit
Approximate going24same length unit
Calculator controls
How to calculate
Calculate riser height and going from total rise, run and step count.
Riser height = rise/steps; Approximate going = run/(steps-1)
Worked example
Total rise: 280; Total horizontal run: 360; Number of risers: 16.
Riser height: 17.5 same length unit; Approximate going: 24 same length unit.
Assumptions and limits
Building codes specify acceptable rise, going, headroom, landings and handrails. Verify the local code and actual layout.
Results are rounded for display; calculations use unrounded values. Read our calculation methodology.
Understanding the result
Calculate riser height and going from total rise, run and step count. The displayed figures use the inputs and formula shown on this page.
When this tool is useful
Use the stair design to compare a scenario, check an estimate, or verify a manual calculation.
Understanding your inputs
| Input | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Total rise | Enter a number of at least 0.000001 and no more than 1000000000000. |
| Total horizontal run | Enter a number of at least 0.000001 and no more than 1000000000000. |
| Number of risers | Enter a number of at least 1 and no more than 1000. |
Frequently asked questions
What should I check before using the stair design result?
Building codes specify acceptable rise, going, headroom, landings and handrails. Verify the local code and actual layout.
Is this stair design result exact?
It is exact for the stated mathematical model and entered values. Real-world results can differ when rates, timing, fees, definitions or measurement conditions differ.