December 30th, 2008
The balustrade is the handrail system alongside the stairs that also functions as a barrier to stop people from falling.
Balusters are the vertical spindles that are used to support the handrail. Balusters can be straight, twisted or any number of other designs. There is a maximum distance apart from each other that balustrades can be according to building regulations.
A newel is the large post used to support the handrail. A newel proper will extend below floor level and be anchored into floor joists. A half newel is often used on landings. This may look the same, but doesn’t offer the same support as it is not so securely fitted.
Winders are steps that are narrower at one end, rather than being the same width all along. They are used to make a staircase turn a corner. A spiral staircase is entirely made up of winders. A kite winder is the middle step of three that are used to turn a 90 degree corner, as it is shaped like a kite.
A bullnose is the first step at the bottom of a flight that is wider than the rest of the stairs. It enables one or both sides of the staircase to be open and allows a curve of balusters which in turn forms a wider and more stable base.
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December 28th, 2008
There are certain measurements that a staircase needs to conform to in order to meet building regulations.
Tread length
The minimum tread length is typically around nine inches. It’s notable that the majority of human feet are longer than this, so in effect the whole foot does not fit on the step where the minimum length is employed.
Maximum riser height
This is literally the difference in height between one step and the next. It’s normally around 8.25 inches. When this maximum is combined with the tread length minimum, a maximum incline is established. The steepness can be greater in residential properties than commercial or industrial ones and other public buildings.
In addition to this, there are specifications about how much each step can vary from the others. Regulations might specify that steps can vary by as little as 0.25 inches. The reasoning behind this is that people get used to a certain step height when climbing stairs and irregular steps can prove dangerous, particularly when ascending or descending at night.
Generally speaking, all steps in a flight should be as close to identical as possible. With differences in floor to floor height and in the available horizontal space from one building to the next, staircases should be custom made to ensure that they meet these regulations.
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December 26th, 2008
There are a number of different measurements which need to be taken into account when constructing a staircase. Here are some of the most important ones.
The rise height
This is the measurement from the top of one step to the top of the next. This is one of the most important measurements as it plays a large part in determining how steep the staircase will be.
The tread depth
This measurement determines how much space is available for the foot. Combined with the rise height, it determines the incline of the stairs.
The total run of the stairs
This refers to the horizontal space that is occupied by the staircase.
The total rise of the stairs
The total rise describes the height the staircase needs to ascend to get from one floor to the next.
The slope of the stairs
This is calculated by dividing the total rise by the total run. Also known as the rake or pitch, it describes the steepness of the stair incline.
Walkline
Where stairs curve and the tread depth is narrower near the inside wall, the walkline is the point along the width of the steps where people are meant to walk. It is the point at which the stairs become deep enough to comfortably use.
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December 23rd, 2008
Perhaps the two key considerations when choosing a staircase for your home are the space that is available and what effect you want to create. The latter is heavily dependent on the former. You may want to make a grand statement with your staircase, but if space is at a premium, you may not be able to create the effect that you desire. The key is to find a balance between these two needs.
Winder stairs are popular for getting to attics and basements, as they take up less floor space. Winder staircases can be made in a range of woods or other materials and are often more economical than other options. You can also specify in which direction you want the stairs to spiral.
Straight staircases are the most popular kind. With a straight staircase, you have the added benefit of storage space beneath. When choosing a straight, or indeed any kind of staircase, try and match the wood used to that in the rest of your house. This will provide a more unified feel to the décor.
A compromise between a winder and a straight staircase is a U-shaped one, which is great for smaller spaces.
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