The height of the riser, the vertical portion of the back of a step, is critical for meeting building codes and safety. Not only does the spacing need to be within certain measurements, they need to be consistent throughout the staircase. While there are codes and measurements for all staircase components, the step riser is one of the most important when it comes to safety.
Why is Riser Height Important?
The height of a step riser indicates how far feet will move up or down when using the stairs. It is desirable to make the steps easy enough to use for people of different heights and mobility levels. For traditional staircases with closed risers, this is typically no more than 7 ¾ inches. For open risers, this is reduced to close that open space for safety. Typically, open risers should be no more than 4 inches in height.
Conformity for Safety
Not only is it important to keep riser heights within the maximum amounts for your local building codes, conformity is critical. Stair riser heights should be as close to identical for the entire staircase. When riser heights vary even a half inch, safety can be compromised. That small difference can throw off the rhythm of going up or down the stairs, resulting in trips or falls. All stair risers should be within 3/8th of an inch from the lowest to the highest.
Creating safe, durable staircases requires precision and adherence to building and safety codes. When replacing or building a staircase, hire an experienced staircase contractor to ensure your new staircase meets all safety and building codes. They can design a staircase that is functional and safe, as well as designed to match your style.
Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342
Staircases are a very important part of a home. Not only can they add to a home’s beauty, their function is essential. There are many parts of a stair to consider when having stairs installed or replaced in your home, and many codes to consider when choosing your design.
The Parts of the Stair
It is important to work with a contractor that is familiar with the codes in your area as stairways have many regulations they must meet. If a staircase is not to code, it may have to be torn out wasting a lot of time and money. Talk to a reputable stair company when choosing the design and installation of your staircase for your home.
Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342
One of the most prominent features in any home is unavoidably the staircase. They are large, necessary, they take up space and they are usually one of the first elements a viewer sees when entering the home. If staircases are planned properly, they can make a grand statement. Curved stairs are a great way to add style and value to a space.
Style
There are many types of curved staircases that can be used. Arched staircases are close to traditional sizes of straight stairs but with a slight bend giving interest and using space efficiently. If space is an issue, a spiral staircase has a very small footprint as they go up, however they are usually much more steep and narrow.
Value
Curved stairs definitely add value to the home. They are more expensive to install, however they are less common and certainly never cookie-cutter. The materials you choose can also add to the value of your home, whether you choose metal or wood railings.
Design
Curved staircases always add a level of interest and sophistication to the space. They turn an otherwise simply functional part of a house into an intentional statement that says something about the people who live there. They can be decorated for events to add even more interest.
If you are building a new home, talk to your architect or a professional staircase specialist about how you can add a curved staircase to your home. Choose a design that compliments the style of your home with tread choices and railings that make a statement. You only get one chance to make a first impression. Make a grand statement with beautiful curved staircases designed especially for your home.
Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342
One of the most important elements to your elevated outdoor deck or front entryway is the staircase. Too often stairs are an afterthought when they can be a beautiful part of the design. Here are some common options to consider when adding exterior stairs to your home.
Style
The style of your front entry should fit with the style of your home overall. Whether you have a rustic farm house, a cool craftsman, or a sleek modern home, your stairs are the first introduction to what guests are going to experience when they walk through the door. Consistency is important.
Materials
Wood is the most common type of staircase added to homes, but they do need maintenance as they are affected by the weather. Brick adds color to traditional home faces and they are easy to maintain and withstand the elements. Stone steps are a classical touch that give a natural feel to your entryway. Metal and aluminum staircases add modern elements to a space. Also, the choice of railings and balustrade materials can be mixed in staircases to reflect a combination of styles. They may modernize or soften a space to give a more unique look.
The most important part of a staircase is the safety it provides for its user and the flow in and out of the home. The width and height of the stairs should be considered for the average user.
If you need assistance in choosing the right type of stairs for your next project, consider going to a professional stair company where they can assist you in designing the best staircase for your space.
Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342
While stairs are always a necessary piece of a home’s architecture, the design and style have become more and more important. New styles in staircases can turn them into showpieces themselves. There are many styles of staircases that are on trend today that fit every aesthetic.
Sustainable Stairs
Choosing to make staircases ecologically sustainable is a trend for green home builders. Doing the research to choose wood that is eco-friendly and beautiful is easier than ever.
Glass Infill
Instead of traditional balusters, consider using glass infills instead. Using a toughened glass gives a minimalist modern style while allowing light to pass through giving an unobstructed view.
Metal Finishes
Using metal finishes in your staircase design gives a modern touch to your overall look. Metal balusters may be added to a traditional staircase or wrought iron in a variety of designs can reflect the overall architecture of the home. And metal is very strong and durable.
Stainless Steel Cable and Tube
Using horizontal steel cable in place of vertical balusters is a new modern look. Cable and tube was popular in outdoor decking and commercial applications, but it is being brought into homes more often. It gives a cool industrial look and can also be used with more traditional wood handrails to soften the appearance. It also allows light without sacrificing safety.
Staircases don’t have to be the monstrosity in the middle of the house. Play them up to be a focal point that you are happy to show off. Find a stair specialist in your area to help you design a staircase that reflects you and your home’s style.
Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342
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