Regal Ideas Quick Step: Layout, Rise/Run, and Code Tips for Fast Stair – The Ultimate Deck Shop

If you’ve ever started sweating over a deck stair install—especially when trying to hit local code and avoid costly mistakes—you’re not alone. At The Ultimate Deck Shop, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts plan and build decks that are both beautiful and safe, and fast-to-finish stairs are a huge part of that equation. Regal Ideas QuickStep has fundamentally changed the game, letting you trade hours of riser math and wood cutting for quick, factory-precise results. But there’s still critical groundwork to do if you want perfect rise/run, a sturdy, code-compliant build, and a staircase you can be proud of for decades.

Why QuickStep Changes Everything for Deck Stairs

Regal QuickStep is more than just a pre-made stringer system. It’s a total approach that removes most of the sources of error, fatigue, and inspection headaches. Instead of mapping out triangles on 2x12s or wrestling lumber into code-compliant geometry, you use pre-engineered aluminum stringers and treads, designed to work together seamlessly—and to survive Canadian winters.

No more dangerous short cuts with uneven risers
Faster install from the first measurement to final handrail
Sleek looks and all-metal longevity to match modern decks

But just dropping in QuickStep parts without a proper layout can still lead to failed inspections or comfort issues. Let’s dive into every step for getting it right—using the real-world techniques our team applies every summer.

1. Always Start with Local Code—Not a Hunch

Before opening a single box, check your city’s staircase requirements. In Saskatchewan, and across most of Canada, you’ll frequently see these baseline requirements reflected in municipal code:

Maximum riser height: 7 3/4" (about 197mm)
Minimum tread run: 10" (about 254mm) measured nose to nose
Consistent riser height: max variation 3/8" (about 10mm)
Minimum stair width: 36" between handrails (clear space)

This is foundational—miss any of these and inspectors can make you redo the work. If you’re uncertain, our staff is happy to review your drawings or stair location for red flags before you invest in materials.

2. Total Rise, Number of Steps, and Riser Math

Even with QuickStep, a flawless install starts with rise/run math. Here’s our go-to process:

Measure total rise: Use a builder’s or laser level. Always measure from the top surface of completed decking (not joists) down to the exact landing (concrete, paver, or framed pad).
Divide by ideal riser height: Most stairs feel best in the 7" to 7.5" range. Divide total rise by 7 or 7.25, round to the nearest whole step—for example, 49" of rise ÷ 7" = 7 risers.
Recalculate actual rise: Then, 49" ÷ 7 risers = 7" per riser. That’s within code and perfectly matched at every tread.

This calculated approach ensures each step is comfortable, uniform, and above all, safe. Want help translating obscure measurements to clear hardware choices? That’s what we’re here for.

3. Picking the Right QuickStep Stringers and Wood Options

At The Ultimate Deck Shop, we stock the full range of Regal QuickStep stringers and ready-to-go pressure-treated wood stringers, so you can choose what works best for your project and your landing configuration.

Just pick the count that fits your calculated riser number. If you get bogged down in options, bring your measurements to us and we’ll map out a stair system that matches your total rise, run, and local code.

4. Tread Depth, Nosing, and Landing Layout

QuickStep’s signature treads aren’t just easy to install—they’re built to exceed code requirements for tread depth and projection. For example, the Regal QuickStep 4' Stair Tread 11" delivers a comfortable step every time.

Effective run is at least 10 inches nose-to-nose—exceeding code
Regal treads allow for nosing between 3/4" and 1 1/4" depending on projection
Compatible with QuickStep 4' Stair Riser Cover for a seamless vertical finish

To avoid surprises when installing concrete pads or paver landings, factor in the stair’s horizontal projection:

Multiply the number of treads by your effective run to get the full projection
Add 1 inch at top and bottom for clearance and alignment
Check for obstructions—window wells, posts, HVAC units—and adjust as needed

5. Precise Stringer, Tread, and Riser Installation

Regal QuickStep stringers are designed to mount easily, but there’s a right way to do it for a trustworthy result. Here’s our in-field approved workflow:

Handed stringers matter: Position flat finished sides outward, open webs inward for concealed fasteners
Mount top first, then swing bottom into place: Secure with structurally rated screws, following code for landing substrate (wood, steel, or concrete)
Check for level and plumb before final tightening: Tune using a 4' level or our professional GH The Leveller
Block under stringer feet if landing on wood to eliminate bounce

After anchoring the first stringer, measure for accurate spacing before adding any more stringers. Consistency is key to a silent, stable staircase.

6. QuickStep Tread Hints You Won’t See in YouTube Tutorials

Precision is the name of the game with QuickStep treads:

Measure the clear width between stringers at each tread location. Subtract Regal’s recommended tolerance to avoid binding.
Use a fine tooth non-ferrous metal blade. If you don’t have one, our tool rental includes appropriate saws to make safe, straight cuts.
Remove aluminum edge channels and end caps before cutting. Reinstall after cutting for a pro finish.
Pre-drill all S114 screw locations—especially at the back where space is tight. This reduces stripped heads and makes life easier in cramped corners.
Start fastening at the rear and work forward. Use a bit extender for easier access to rear holes.

This approach keeps everything square and looking sharp from curb-side to your backdoor.

7. Railing and Guard Tips (So You Don’t Fail an Inspection)

For most decks in the Prairie provinces, stair and deck rails must meet height, spacing, and load standards. Our Regal line integrates perfectly—it’s as plug-and-play as DIY railing gets:

Regal Ideas 36" Stair Post for most stair landings
Regal Ideas 2-1/4" Stair Post (42") where extra height is needed
Regal Railing Inline Stair Post for an undermount look
Regal QuickStep Mounting Plate Insert to support post bases right on the treads
Regal Ideas Universal Stair Bracket for simple, code-compliant angle connections

Match posts to your stairs and always keep sightlines, guard heights, and picket/glass spacing within code. Our team reviews hardware lists daily to ensure nothing’s forgotten, especially on permits and inspections.

8. Real-World Checks Before You Call It Done

We use the same checklist our pros apply during managed installs in Regina and Saskatoon:

Check each riser (tread to tread) for uniform height
Confirm minimum tread depth at every step
Stay within 3/8" riser variation from top to bottom
Verify stair width and handrail/guard height requirements
Ensure all fasteners are installed, tight, and not stripped—especially at heads that inspectors love to check

This final walkthrough catches 99% of potential issues before final clean-up—saving you time, cost, and stress.

Common QuickStep Mistakes and Simple Solutions

Forgetting decking thickness in total rise. Always measure from finished decking, or risk awkward first/last steps. Don’t let this rookie move haunt your projects!
Skipping stringer blocking. Unblocked stringers on a wood landing bounce and squeak. Block and brace under every foot.
Inconsistent stringer spacing. Use a tape, not your eyeball. Precise spacing ensures level treads that don’t move or twist.
Not pre-drilling S114 screws. Stripped fasteners are a pain to fix later. Prep your holes, especially at the rear of each tread.

How QuickStep Fits Into the Bigger Deck Picture

Your stairs are just one piece of a deck system designed for comfort, safety, and longevity. That’s why we encourage every customer to look at their stair plan together with their framing, decking, and rail package. For a seamless build—material and code-wise—start with the Decking Materials hub. Whether you’re using composite, wood, or steel framing, our team ensures every material works together for maximum performance.

Need to design with composite boards? Check out the details and options on composite decking, which dovetails well with Regal QuickStep systems. You can also find more installation insight and how-tos in our guides, like our construction A-Z glossary and Trex in-stock and delivery resources.

Ready to Nail Your QuickStep Stair Install? Here’s Your Next Move

Measure your deck-to-landing height (finished surface to finished landing).
Take two photos (deck edge and ground/landing area).
Send the info through our contact form or bring it to our Regina or Saskatoon stores for an expert review—no appointment needed.
Ask for a full QuickStep package list (stringers, treads, riser covers, railing, and brackets) and we’ll walk you through it start to finish.

Whether you tackle it solo, opt for assisted DIY, or hand off the hard stuff to us, a crisp rise/run plan and the right hardware will keep you on budget, on code, and out of trouble. If you run into questions, remember: help is just a message or quick store visit away.

Looking for advice on integrating multiple stair systems, railing styles, or landing hardscaping? Our blog and project pages, including resources like retaining wall code tips and Belgard install tips, offer tons of detail to help complete your backyard space.

For a project that runs smoothly and exceeds expectations, trust the details, build with the right materials, and let our local expertise guide you every step. Start your next deck or stair build with us—and let’s make your outdoor living space the best on the block.