Fig. 6. Side Elevation of Finished Steps with Return Nosings and Cove Moulding.
Fig. 7. Front Elevation of Finished Steps.
[Fig. 6] is a side elevation of the steps as finished, with return nosings and cove moulding complete.
A front elevation of the finished step is shown in [Fig. 7], the nosing and riser returning against the base of the newel post. Often the newel post projects past the riser, in front; and when such is the case, the riser and nosing are cut square against the base of the newel.
Fig. 8. Portion of a Cut and
Mitered String, Showing
Method of Constructing
Stairs.
[Fig. 8] shows a portion of a cut and mitered string, which will give an excellent idea of the method of construction. The letter O shows the nosing, F the return nosing with a bracket terminating against it. These brackets are about 5⁄16-inch thick, and are planted (nailed) on the string; the brackets miter with the ends of the risers; the ends of the brackets which miter with the risers, are to be the same height as the riser. The lower ends of two balusters are shown at G G; and the dovetails or mortises to receive these are shown at E E. Generally two balusters are placed on each tread, as shown; but there are sometimes instances in which three are used, while in others only one baluster is made use of.
An end portion of a cut and mitered string is shown in [Fig. 9], with part of the string taken away, showing the carriage—a rough piece of lumber to which the finished string is nailed or otherwise fastened. At C is shown the return nosing, and the manner in which the work is finished. A rough bracket is sometimes nailed on the carriage, as shown at D, to support the tread. The balusters are shown dovetailed into the ends of the treads, and are either glued or nailed in place, or both. On the lower edge of string, at B, is a return bead or moulding. It will be noticed that the rough carriage is cut in snugly against the floor joist.