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.