Expert: Dan Griffin - 12/25/2008

Question
Recently, we had 4 steps replaced due to cracking.  The area was dugged out and a concrete footing was filled in.
the contractor used cinder blocks and limestone slates as
a finished product.  The steps seem too narrow (width) when
walking up and down on them.  Is there a special code or
measurements.  Also, he took our metal railing off while
working and when they were replaced, he had to shorten them
to make them fit.  ("Please advise."Thanks)

Answer
Robert there are very stringent codes about stairs.  The rise of each step should be very close to 7"  Code says nothing over 7 3/8".  If your contractor used cement blocks, I suspect the rise is 7 5/8", a bit tall, but if it works for you it isn't bad.  The run or tread of a stair is always in relation to the rise.  A very comfortable stair is 7" rise with 11" tread.  The rise and the run should add up to 17-18".  Another  method suggests rise plus rise plus tread should equal 25" (example:  7 plus 7=14 plus an 11" tread= 25.  I suspect that your new stair is too steep if the man had to shorten the handrail.  That ratio of rise and run determines the angle of the stair which should be at or below 38 degrees.