Fit check
Key measurements
Plans heights from the ground · the house is at the back
Front elevation
Side elevation — from the left
Top view
Framing plan
Stringer layout
Posts & footings
Cut list
Lumber list & cutting diagrams what to buy, and what gets cut from each board
Estimated cost approx. Home Depot retail — click a price to match your store
Hardware & concrete
Build steps
Plan a wood front porch, stoop or steps
Porch & Steps Planner designs the classic DIY wood landing and stairs at a door: a framed landing at your door height, attached to the house with a ledger or freestanding, with stairs on the front, left or right side — or all three. It works out the number of steps, rise and run, cuts the stringer layout for you, adds wood or metal baluster railings and handrails, and plans the footings — posts in concrete, deck blocks, concrete piers or a slab. The 3D model, drawings, cut list and cost update as you type.
1. Measure the door
Measure from the ground to the door threshold. The landing sits about an inch below it.
2. Add the stairs
Turn on stairs for each side, set their width and where they sit along the edge.
3. Rails & footings
Pick a railing style and how the porch sits on the ground. The fit check flags code issues.
4. Build it
Download a PDF with drawings, the stringer layout, cut list, lumber and concrete to buy, and build steps.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps do I need for my porch?
Divide the height from the ground to the top of the landing by 7.5 inches and round up — that is the number of risers. A 30 inch porch needs 4 risers of 7 1/2 inches and 3 treads. Most US codes allow risers up to 7 3/4 inches.
How big should a porch landing be?
At an exterior door the landing must be at least 36 inches deep and at least as wide as the door. 48 by 48 inches is a comfortable small stoop; 5 to 6 feet wide lets two people stand while the door swings.
When does a porch need a railing?
Under the IRC, a guard at least 36 inches high is required where the landing is more than 30 inches above the ground, and stairs with four or more risers need a graspable handrail on at least one side. Check your local code.
Can I build porch steps on deck blocks?
Low freestanding stoops are often built on precast deck blocks, but blocks sit above the frost line and can heave. For taller porches, porches attached to the house, or cold climates, use posts in concrete below the frost line.
How far apart should stair stringers be?
No more than 16 inches centre to centre for 5/4 deck boards or composite treads; 2x6 treads can span a little farther. A 36 inch wide stair needs 3 stringers, a 48 inch stair 4.
Is the Porch & Steps Planner free?
Yes. It runs in your browser with no sign-up, and you can download the plans as a PDF or save your settings to a file.