timber frame stairs

[Sparky46]

Hello: I have been building a home (a lodge-style) now for about 2 years...without going to the bank for any help...it's a very slow process that way but very satisfying. At this point I am planning the stairs going to the loft. I am looking for information help...people, books, plans, anything. I know there is a lot of information out there about building stairs but... What makes these so different is that I have recovered some older Cedar fence posts (about 70 of them) which measure 6" X 6" x 8'. I ran them through my planer after cleaning them up ( Nails, brackets, etc) and they are absolutely beautiful. So I've decide to reuse them for the steps and posts to the loft. How do I begin this project? Is there anyone out there who has undertaken such? Thanks in advance for the help.

[jloomis]

Hi Sparky, Not knowing what kind of stairs you are planning to build makes it tough to come up with ideas. There are stairs that go straight up.....no landing.. There are stairs with landings...........one or more. There and winding type stairs. Head room and distance play a role.

I would take some measures and make a plot plan that gives one a "footprint" of the stair area..... I would consider my materials in this construction........You only have

6x6x8 so that limits you in some ways. For treads it would be fine but you need some support or "stringers" I would build a model......using scale pieces of wood. i.e. 1' =1" or whatever works..... rip some scrap on a table saw and go to work.

You can dowel, glue, screw.....the final project. I would find some larger timber for the stringers if needed. The model will help. I have used 1/2" rebar in joining timber also...

[jamesgangnc]

Why don't you get a book on framing from some place like lowes. It will give you the conventional framing techniques for various stairs. Once you understand that then it might help you figure out how you could adapt the design or use your materials.

[Raider Bill]

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many guys there are doing the same thing. There is a lot of talant in timber frame/log building including Jim Rogers!