On porch steps and open stringers, the treads should overhang at their ends an amount equal to that given the front. The cove, if one be used, should be carried around and "returned" under the end of the tread.
On enclosed or semi-enclosed stringers, a combination of stringer and wall board is commonly used. [Fig. 125] illustrates a type of construction often used upon attic stairs. In this the side stringers are framed of 1" stock and then nailed to the wall board of similar thickness. Such construction is not suited for first floor stair work where the effects of shrinkage would show to greater disadvantage.
Fig. 126. Main Stair Detail
[Fig. 126] illustrates the manner of framing a modern stair suitable for a first floor where the best type of construction is demanded. As a rule, such stair work will be done at a mill and the stair brought to the building knock-down. The carpenter will have framed the rough stringers which are to support the ceiling below the stair, and placed them so that they may be used as a temporary stair for the workmen. If the stairway is an open one or semi-open, the plastering under these stringers will have been placed, the stair being put together on the floor and then raised to its place. If the well-hole is such that the stair must be assembled while the strings or wall boards are in place, the lath and plaster must be left off the rough stringers until after the stair has been assembled and the wedges glued and driven in place as shown in the illustration. Rough stringers must be placed far enough from the sides of the well-hole so that the wall board may settle in place and that the wedges may be easily placed, usually about 4" or 5" from the wall will be sufficient.
62. Porches.—[Fig. 127] illustrates the manner of framing the floor of a porch. Such framework should be given a pitch downward away from the house of about 1" in 10' that the water may be drained.
Fig. 127. Detail of Porch Framing
[Fig. 128] illustrates the manner of placing water table and flooring, etc. Water table is first placed, the corners being mitered and the whole furred out from the frame about a quarter of an inch to allow any dampness to escape. Porch floors should have their joints painted with lead just before being laid.
