Easy Riser® FAQ
Answers to common questions about Easy Riser.
Product Information
Installation
Product Information
What makes the Easy Riser stair-stringer system stronger?
How is Easy Riser adjustable?
What kind of stairs can I build with Easy Riser?
Can Easy Riser be used for exterior stairs?
Does Easy Riser squeak?
How does Easy Riser compare in cost to other materials?
Installation
How long does Easy Riser take to assemble?
Do I need special tools to install Easy Riser?
How difficult is the math required to construct stairs using Easy Riser?
Can a 2’ x 4’ be attached to space the stringer away from the wall?
Can I use a conventional skirt board to build stairs with Easy Riser?
What type of fastener should I use to attach Easy
Riser?
Product Information
What makes the Easy Riser stair-stringer system stronger?
Easy Riser is attached to an uncut 2’ x 6’, which yields a full 5 1/2 inches of wood for support instead of the 2 1/2-3 inches (or less) of wood usually left after notching a 2’ x 10’ or a 2’ x 12' stringer. (Please refer to stringer sizing charts, 2' x 6' is the minimum size for stringer material.)
How is Easy Riser adjustable?
Easy Riser has pre-marked tread and riser measurements. The tread measurements range from 9 to 11 inches, but Easy Riser can be adjusted to wider treads as long as the screws are still properly attached to the stringer material. The riser measurements range from 6-1/2 to 8 inches. The filler block located between the side panels of the Easy Riser does not rest on the stringer material therefore, Easy Riser can be adjusted to any tread and riser measurements. Please refer to our installation instructions for more details.
What kind of stairs can I build with Easy Riser?
You can build any type of straight stairway (i.e., stairs that do not curve) with Easy Riser. You can use Easy Riser to build stairs in residential construction as well as for manufactured housing.
Can Easy Riser be used for exterior stairs?
No, Easy Riser is an interior product.
Does Easy Riser squeak?
Easy Riser greatly reduces squeaks because the stringer is made up from a minimum of a 2' x 6' and that is stronger than a notched 2’ x 12’. This added strength minimizes stringer deflection. Most squeaks are caused by bending or deviation (deflection) as a person walks on the stairs. This deflection eventually loosens the finished treads and risers. It can also cause the finished treads to rub against the skirt boards of your stair system. Both occurrences ultimately cause squeaks. Easy Riser is structurally superior to a 2' x 12' and greatly reduces the chance for squeaks to occur.
How does Easy Riser compare in cost to other materials?
There might be a moderate increase in material costs when using Easy Riser. However, that incremental cost can be easily recouped if you have to throw away an incorrectly cut stringer.
Installation
How long does Easy Riser take to assemble?
It takes about 25 minutes to install three stringers for a full stairway of 13 treads. Please refer to our installation instructions for more details.
Do I need special tools to install Easy Riser?
The same tools you use for a notched 2' x 12' stair construction can be used.
How difficult is the math required to construct stairs using Easy Riser?
The math calculations are the same as you would use with regular stairs. The only difference is Easy Riser is easier to set because there is no notching and cutting. Please refer to our installation instructions for more details.
Can a 2’ x 4’ be attached to space the stringer away from the wall?
While not necessary or required, a 2'x 4' can be attached to space the stringer away from the wall to make space for drywall and skirt boards. Please refer to our installation instructions for more details.
Can I use a conventional skirt board to build stairs with Easy Riser?
Yes, any conventional skirt board can be used.
What type of fastener should I use to attach Easy Riser?
A 1-1/2" screw is recommended for attaching Easy Riser. Gluing Easy Riser to the stringer is not required or recommended. Please refer to our installation instructions for more details.