In construction, “stair rise” refers to the vertical distance between the top of one tread (step) and the top of the next tread. Stair rise, along with stair run (tread depth), determines the comfort, safety, and compliance of stairs with building codes and regulations. Proper calculation and adherence to stair rise requirements are essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of stairs in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Function
The primary function of stair rise in construction is to:
- Ensure Safety: Stair rise ensures the safety of individuals using the stairs by providing a comfortable and consistent height for each step, reducing the risk of tripping, stumbling, or falling.
- Ensure Comfort: Stair rise ensures the comfort of individuals using the stairs by providing an ergonomic and easy-to-navigate staircase, minimizing fatigue and strain on the legs and joints.
- Ensure Code Compliance: Stair rise ensures compliance with building codes and regulations, which specify the maximum and minimum allowable rise heights to ensure the safety and accessibility of stairs.
Building Code Requirements
Building codes typically specify the following requirements for stair rise:
- Maximum Rise: The maximum rise for stairs is typically 7 3/4 inches (196 mm), with some variations based on local building codes and regulations.
- Minimum Rise: The minimum rise for stairs is typically 4 inches (102 mm), with some variations based on local building codes and regulations.
Applications
Stair rise is used in various construction applications, including:
- Residential Construction: Stair rise is used in residential construction for interior and exterior staircases, ensuring safety, comfort, and compliance with building codes and regulations.
- Commercial Construction: Stair rise is used in commercial construction for staircases in office buildings, retail stores, schools, hospitals, and other commercial facilities, ensuring safety, comfort, and accessibility.
- Industrial Construction: Stair rise is used in industrial construction for staircases in factories, warehouses, and industrial facilities, ensuring safety, durability, and efficiency in vertical circulation.
Conclusion
In construction, stair rise refers to the vertical distance between the top of one tread (step) and the top of the next tread. By ensuring safety, comfort, and code compliance, proper calculation and adherence to stair rise requirements are essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of stairs in various residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects.
