27110 Basic Stair Layout

Course Syllabus: Basic Stair Layout

NCCER Module 27110

Course Information

• Course Title: Basic Stair Layout
• Module ID: 27110 (NCCER Carpentry Curriculum)
• Credit Hours: Non-credit training module
• Contact Hours: 12.5 hours (typically delivered over 2–3 days, including classroom instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on practice)
• Prerequisites: Completion of NCCER Carpentry Level 1 or equivalent experience in basic carpentry, including familiarity with reading blueprints, using hand and power tools, and construction math. Students should have basic knowledge of building codes and safety practices.
• Delivery Mode: In-person with classroom instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on lab activities.

Course Description

This module introduces trainees to the fundamentals of stairway construction in residential and light commercial building. It covers stair types, components, building code requirements, mathematical calculations for layout, and practical techniques for fabricating and installing basic stairways. Emphasis is placed on safety, accuracy, and compliance with industry standards, particularly those outlined in the International Residential Code (IRC).

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:

1. Identify and describe different types of stairways and their primary components.
2. Explain common building code requirements related to stairway design and construction.
3. Calculate the total rise, number and size of risers, number and size of treads, and stairwell opening sizes for a given stairway.
4. Lay out and cut stringers using a framing square.
5. Fabricate and assemble basic stairways, including cutting and installing risers and treads.
6. Apply safe work practices throughout stair layout and construction processes.

Course Outline and Schedule

Total Hours: 12.5 (Approximate breakdown; schedule may vary based on class pace and lab time)

1. Introduction to Stairs (2 hours)
   • Overview of stair applications in construction
   • Types of stairs (straight, L-shaped, U-shaped, winder, service, etc.)
   • Stair components (treads, risers, stringers/carriages, balusters, handrails, newels, landings, nosing, etc.)
   • Closed vs. open stairways; housed vs. non-housed stringers
2. Building Codes and Safety Requirements (2 hours)
   • Key IRC requirements: maximum riser height (7¾”), minimum tread depth (10″), stair width (36″ minimum), headroom (6’8″ minimum), handrail specifications, etc.
   • Common riser-tread ratio rules for comfort and safety
   • Stairwell framing requirements (double headers and trimmers)
   • Safety considerations: fall hazards, tool use, and personal protective equipment (PPE)
3. Stair Calculations (3 hours)
   • Determining total rise and total run
   • Calculating number of risers and treads (risers = one more than treads)
   • Unit rise and unit run calculations
   • Stairwell length and opening size determination
   • Using calculators and framing squares for layout
4. Stringer Layout and Cutting (3 hours)
   • Tools and materials for stair construction
   • Step-by-step layout of stringers using a framing square
   • Marking and cutting stringers (accounting for tread thickness and bottom adjustments)
   • Layout for housed stringers (if applicable)
5. Fabrication, Assembly, and Installation (2 hours)
   • Cutting and installing risers and treads
   • Assembling basic stairways
   • Temporary bracing and installation considerations
6. Review and Performance Testing (0.5 hours)
   • Module review
   • Written knowledge assessment
   • Hands-on performance tasks

Methods of Instruction

• Classroom lectures and discussions
• Visual aids (diagrams, videos, and physical stair models)
• Instructor demonstrations
• Guided hands-on practice in a lab setting
• Group activities and problem-solving exercises for stair calculations

Required Materials

• NCCER Carpentry Level 2 Trainee Guide (current edition)
• Personal protective equipment (safety glasses, hard hat, gloves, steel-toed boots)
• Basic hand tools: framing square, tape measure, circular saw, handsaw, hammer
• Calculator (construction calculator recommended, e.g., Construction Master Pro)
• Notebook and pencil for calculations and notes

Assessment and Evaluation

• Knowledge Assessment: Multiple-choice written exam (minimum passing score: 70%) covering terminology, codes, calculations, and procedures.
• Performance Tasks: Hands-on evaluation based on NCCER Performance Profiles, including:
  • Accurate calculation of stair dimensions
  • Proper layout and cutting of stringers
  • Fabrication of a basic stairway section meeting code requirements
• Successful completion of both knowledge and performance assessments earns the NCCER Module 27110 credential (recorded in the NCCER National Registry).

Safety Note

Safety is the primary concern in stair design and construction. All activities will emphasize safe tool handling, proper PPE use, and awareness of fall risks. Unsafe practices will result in removal from lab activities.

Additional Resources

• International Residential Code (IRC) sections on stairs
• NCCER online resources and Contren Connect (if available through training provider)
• Instructor office hours for additional help with calculations or layout techniques

This syllabus aligns with NCCER standards and prepares trainees for real-world carpentry applications. Adjustments may be made by the instructor to accommodate class needs.