Stair Cut Line Hack in Revit: How to Switch from Single to Double Line

AI for Architecture | Architecture | Interior | Revit | Space design

Stair Cut Line Hack in Revit: How to Switch from Single to Double Line

Introduction: Why Stair Cut Lines Matter

Introduce the problem: default Revit stair drawings often show a single zigzag cut line.
Explain why this can be confusing for contractors, students, or clients.
Introduce the blog as a simple hack to make stair drawings clearer by switching to a double line cut mark

Step 1: Opening the Stair Properties

Select the stair element in the drawing.
Go to Edit Type to access type properties.
Explain why Type Properties are the right place for graphics adjustments.

Step 2: Locating the Cut Mark Type Option

Under the Graphics section, find Cut Mark Type.
By default, it shows “Single Zigzag” for stair cut lines
Describe how this setting controls the appearance of stair cuts in plan view.

Step 3: Changing to Double Line

Switch the option from Single Zigzag to Double Line.
Apply the changes, and the drawing updates immediately.
Highlight how the new double zigzag cut line gives clarity in drawings.

Step 4: Why Double Cut Lines Are Better

Discuss readability: easier for construction teams to interpret.
Visual clarity: avoids confusion in crowded plan drawings.
Professionalism: cleaner presentation for clients and competitions.

Step 5: Best Practices for Stair Graphics in Revit

Always check cut line representation before finalizing sheets.
Use double lines when stairs overlap with other complex elements.
Document your graphic settings for consistency across projects.
Test both single and double lines to decide what fits project needs.

Case example to Switch from Single to Double Line

Drawing show only single cut line.

1. Select Stair - Edit Type- Type property dialogue box opens above.

2. Under -Graphics - Cut Mark Type - It shows Single Zigzag

3. Under -Graphics - Cut Mark Type - Change it to Double line

Drawing is updated with double Zigzag cutline.

It's Done!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forgetting to apply changes in Type Properties, leading to no updates.
Mixing single and double line stairs within the same project, which causes confusion.
Overcomplicating graphics when a simple cut line is sufficient.

Use Cases of the Stair Cut Line Hack

Architectural Drawings: Cleaner plans for presentations.
Student Projects: Easy way to make drawings stand out.
Construction Documentation: Reduces site errors by making stairs more obvious.
Competitions: Professional representation that communicates design intent.

FAQs on Stair Cut Lines in Revit

Can I switch back to single cut line later?
Yes, just change the setting in Type Properties back to Single Zigzag.

Does this hack affect 3D views?
No, it only affects 2D plan drawings.

Can I create custom cut line styles?
Yes, but it requires creating and assigning custom annotation symbols.

Is the double line option available in all Revit versions?
It’s available in most recent versions; check your software release notes.

Conclusion: A Simple Hack for Clearer Stair Drawings

The stair cut line hack in Revit is small but powerful. By switching from a single to a double line, your drawings become easier to read, more professional, and better suited for communication.

For architects, students, and contractors, clarity matters. This trick helps avoid misunderstandings and adds polish to your work. Next time you’re setting up stair drawings, try this hack—you’ll notice the difference immediately.