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Architecture/stair tread size?

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Expert: - 1/3/2011


Question
hello. im building stairs to my basement. i have only enough space to make the trewad 9 inces, and the riser will 7,and 3/4 inches. is that ok even though its not a perfect size?. also, the wigth will be 36 inches. the head room at the last step will be about 72 inches. thank you

Answer
Jim - thanks for your question!

The riser and tread sizes are ok in some jurisdictions, but you need to check your local code - some require a 10" tread and a 7 1/2" riser.  Otherwise, those numbers are fine.

In either case, you need at least 80" clear headroom for the entire stair.  Is there any other way to configure the stair, or can you alter the floor framing above to get the required headroom?

Hope this helps,

Richard Taylor, AIA
www.rtastudio.blogspot.com

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Richard Taylor, AIA

Expertise

Ask me about all aspects of house, remodeling. , and room addition design and construction. Ask me about historic homes, renovation, and restoration. Ask me about materials and techniques, and about how you can get the best value for your design and construction dollar. Ask me how you can make your home a very special place. I can't, however, answer specific structural engineering questions in this forum - that's something you'll need on-site observation for.

Experience

I own a full-service residential architectural firm, and have been designing custom homes, remodelings, and room additions across the country since 1983. Check us out at Richard Taylor Architects and RTA Plans. I have written and been published extensively on the subject of residential architecture.

Organizations
American Institute of Architects, City of Dublin Architectural Review Board, Vice Chair of City of Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission, American Planning Association, Board Member Historic Dublin Business Association, Past Editor of SPLASH (a software forum), Past Editor of Open Directory Project, Assistant Scoutmaster, Boy Scouts of America

Publications
Business First of Columbus, Suburban New Publications, About.com, Cleveland Plain Dealer, Columbus Dispatch Residential Architect Custom Home Architect Remodeling Architect

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Environmental Design (Architecture) Miami University 1983
For more about home design, check out my blog at Sense Of Place and join the conversation on our Facebook Page.

Awards and Honors
2010 Dublin Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year

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