Architecture/stair treads

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Expert: - 6/11/2009


Question
I know there are minimum standards for floor-to-floor stair tread depths but is there a maximum limit for safe use?  Example: is a 500mm tread depth safe?  It seems quite unreasonable.

Answer
Hi Mark,

I have never seen a code that specifies a maximum dimension of a stair tread depth, but we use a rule of thumb of 2 risers + 1 tread = 25" (635 mm) to help get a comfortable stair.  So generally as the tread gets longer, the risers need to get smaller to make the stair more comfortable and safe to use. You will often see this in stairs in the landscape where the slope is too steep for a ramp, but not quite steep enough for a stair of more typical dimensions.  

Nazim Nice
Principal / Architect
http://www.motion-space.com
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Nazim Nice

Expertise

I am a Seattle Architect and can answer architecture and design related questions. Ask me about material suggestions or usage. Ask me about design options - what is good design and what is bad. Ask me about choosing exterior house colors and furniture layout options. Ask me about detailing and assembling houses or components in the home. Ask me about green design or materials. Ask me about choosing an architect, the architectural services, basement remodels, second story additions, and whole house remodels. Ask me about garage design, bathroom remodels, laundry and mudroom design, family room additions, and roof deck additions.

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Over 12 years of practice in the Architectural field including three years of internship plus 5 years of school. I have taught at the Knowlton School of Architecture at the Ohio State University and lectured at Carnegie Mellon University. I currently own and run the Seattle Architecture Firm, Motionspace Architecture + Design PLLC.

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National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB, Seattle Architects | Motionspace Architecture + Design. More information at our blog the (un)common house. Lumen ID Custom Engraved Switch Plates with Labels.

Education/Credentials
BArch from Carnegie Mellon University & Andrew Carnegie Scholar

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