Free calculator

Stair calculator

Building or drawing a stair? Enter the height between the two floor levels and you get, in one go, how many steps you need and how high and deep each one should be to feel comfortable to walk.

Stair calculator – number of steps and step dimensions

Enter the total height and we work out the number of steps, the step height (rise) and a recommended going (tread depth) per the comfort rule 2 × rise + going ≈ 630 mm.

Number of steps0 pcs
Step height (rise)0 mm
Recommended going (tread depth)0 mm

An estimate. Comfortable stairs often have a rise of 150–180 mm and a going of at least 250 mm (indoors) per the Swedish building regulations (BBR). Check the requirements for your type of stair.

This tool gives an estimate and is an aid – not a finished calculation. Always check the result against drawings, applicable regulations, supplier data and your professional experience before giving a binding price, ordering material or using the file. ByggExp is not responsible for decisions made solely on the basis of the tool.

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Preview of the stair calculator
This is how the stair calculator looks

How to work out the stair

Diagram: rise and going in a stair per the stair formula
Comfort rule: 2 × rise + going ≈ 630 mm. Rise is often about 175 mm.
  1. Measure the total height the stair must span (mm).
  2. Enter a desired rise (often about 175 mm).
  3. See the number of steps, the actual rise and recommended going.

The comfort rule

A stair feels comfortable when 2 × rise + going is about 630 mm. If the steps are too high or too shallow the stair feels uncomfortable and can be unsafe.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I work out the number of steps in a stair?
Divide the total height by the desired rise (often about 175 mm) and round. The actual rise is the height divided by the number of steps.
What is a comfortable rise?
Often 150–180 mm. Lower steps are easier to walk but need more steps and more space, while high steps make the stair steep. It is the balance against the going that decides how comfortable it feels.
What requirements apply to stairs?
The Swedish building regulations (BBR) set requirements for rise, going and width, among others. Check the requirements for your type of stair.
Does it cost anything?
No, the calculator is free and requires no account.