Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/Spiral stairs

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Expert: - 9/12/2008


Question
Hello Mr Swallow
Thank you for taking my question.
We are building a rustic cabin with a small loft, nothing remotely fancy.
Floor space is limited so we are thinking of making our own circular stair case to access the loft which is 8 feet above the first floor.
Question..what are your thoughts about using 2 ft long x10 inch wide treads to save space, or is this totally out of the question with a circular stair case?
Question..it has been suggested to us that a returned staircase with the 2 ft long treads would be safer and not take up much more floor space (although we realise some more.) Your thoughts?
Many Thanks
Ellen  

Answer
Ellen,

I don't see any problem with using a 24" X 10" tread for loft access in a spiral or circular stair.  I've installed something similar about six years ago to a loft that was converted into a library (400 square feet).  The building department classified it as a "ladder" in lieu of a spiral or winding staircase.  Spirals, winders, and circular stairs come under certain codes and regulations.  A ladder, though circular, does not have the same restrictions.  To function as a circular "ladder", 2-ft x 10-inches does not sound like a problem as long as it is "comfortable" in its usage.  

Hopefully that answers your question.

Regards,

Joseph G. Swallow

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Joseph G. Swallow

Expertise

I can answer all staircase balustrade questions where handrails, newels posts, balusters (wood and metal), and stair treads are concerned. I cannot help with cabinetry and floor (outside of stair-related treads and risers), as well as stain and finish issues unless staircase related.

Experience

30 years in the stair industry. Founder of Hardwood Creations in Southern California and CEO of Westfire Manufacturing, Inc. I was a stair builder for 10 years, both in custom and production housing. Have estimated over 750,000 single family homes and provided materials to lumber yards and builders for 12 years. Was an expert witness in several staircase related law suits in Southern California. Stair codes, installation help, stair handrail and balustrade installation are what I know best.

Organizations
NAHB of Portland, OR. Was a member of ICBO for 9 years.

Education/Credentials
Cal State Fullerton, Cypress College

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