INTERIOR STAIRS

                You should check your local building codes before building your staircase as to minimum requirements for rise and tread depth.

                The interior stars are, of course, attached to the second floor system.  Therefore, the stairs must also be constructed in such a way as to not hold up the second floor system during log settlement.  This is accomplished with an adjustable screw jack assembly on top of the post which supports the second floor at the top of the stairs.

                Build a 6x12 header underneath the second floor where the stairs attach.  Support this header not with rigid posts, but with adjustable posts.  As the second floor lowers with log settlement, keep an eye on the second floor area near the stairs and lower with the adjustable screw jacks if necessary.  All Tennessee Log Homes’ stair packages include screw jack assemblies and 2x4’s with which you may construct adjustable posts.  The screw jacks will be hidden away behind removable trim boards when the home is trimmed out.

                With fully exposed staircases, you may elect to countersink your nail holes and plug with a short piece of dowel rod for a nice decorative look.  A one-inch diameter hole and dowel are recommended.