Are Open Risers Allowed On Outside Stairs?

The International Building Code (IBC) allows open risers in both interior and exterior stairs, as long as the opening between the treads does not allow a 4-inch diameter sphere to pass through. For dwellings, open risers can be constructed as long as the treads overlap by a minimum of 16mm and are built to ensure that a 100mm diameter sphere cannot pass between them. D1/AS1 allows common stairways to have open risers as long as the gaps are not large enough for a 100mm diameter sphere to pass through.

The rise of steps must be between 125mm and 200mm (4 7/8 to 7 7/8 inches) and uniform. Riser height is measured vertically from the surface of one stair. If stairs have open risers, anywhere above 30 inches from the floor should not permit a sphere of 4-inch diameter to pass through. To ensure drainage, stair designers can include drain holes in the stair treads, use sloped treads up to a 2-percent slope, or use open risers.

Open risers are allowed in common and private stairways but must not have openings that would allow a 4-inch diameter sphere to pass through. Stairs higher than 30 inches off the ground are subject to the same guidelines as railings, so avoid open risers that permit passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere. Open risers are acceptable on short stair runs where it is 30-inches or less to the ground.

In domestic dwellings, solid risers should be used instead of open risers, as they remove the possibility of a foot or other obstruction.

Can you have open risers on stairs?

The International Rail Construction Code (IRC) states that a stairway cannot have an open riser exceeding 4″. This means that a 7. 25″ total rise with a 3. 5″ tread has a 3. 75″ gap, ensuring that any child large enough to climb steps won’t fall through the open risers. The IRC doesn’t provide specific requirements for slip factors on treads, but some people are concerned about it. To ensure safety, it’s essential to have a graspable handrail to support the user as they ascend and descend the stairs.

Too big a handrail can be a hazard, while too small doesn’t provide enough surface for grasping. For those concerned about slipping, Viewrail’s Grip Strips can be used in the front of the treads, as the metal creates more friction than finished wood, providing better grip.

Do deck stair risers need to be closed?

High-end deck projects often use closed risers for stairs, while open risers may appear cheap and unfinished and violate the IRC code for decks over 30″. Stair risers should be made from deck boards or fascia material, and should be heavy-duty enough to resist foot kicks. If using 1x material, blocking may be installed for added strength. Low-voltage lights can be installed into the riser boards to meet the IRC code for stair illumination. Most deck stairs use a nosed tread that extends beyond the riser board, which looks attractive and protects it from being kicked loose from above.

Properly measuring, cutting, and building deck stair stringers is crucial for a successful staircase. Building deck steps can be challenging, but with proper planning and attention to detail, they can be a rewarding and functional addition to any deck.

Are open staircases legal?

Building regulations dictate that stairs with open treads must overlap by a minimum of 16mm and prevent a 100mm sphere from passing through. Part K of the Approved Documents, titled “Protection from falling, collision and impact”, covers stairs and staircases in homes. It sets out maximum and minimum rise and goings of stairs to ensure safety. The table below is an extract from Part K, which must be read alongside the rest of the Part K document and other Approved Documents.

Do exterior stairs need risers?

The 2018 IRC code for exterior stairs, found in Section R311 Means of Egress, outlines the requirements for stairways, including specific requirements for exterior stairs. Section R507. 2. 2 defines the requirements for outdoor plastic composite deck boards, stair treads, guards, and handrails, which must comply with ASTM D7032 requirements. These boards, stair treads, guards, and handrails must exhibit a flame spread index not exceeding 200 when tested in accordance with ASTM E85 or UL 723, except for noncombustible plastic composites. They must also be decay and termite resistant, and installed in accordance with the code and manufacturer’s instructions.

The outdoor stair anchoring code, Section R311. 5, mandates that exterior landings, decks, balconies, stairs, and similar facilities must be positively anchored to the primary structure to resist both vertical and lateral forces or be designed to be self-supporting. These requirements ensure that the safety and functionality of outdoor spaces are maintained.

How to make open riser stairs safe?

Open riser stairs, also known as floating stairs, are a popular choice for homeowners due to their modern and stylish appearance. They create an open and airy feel, allowing light to pass through each step. To make these stairs safer, it is essential to install carpet stair treads, use proper spacing, use handrails, and have better lighting. Customization options are also available. However, safety concerns and higher costs may limit the benefits of these stairs. Despite these concerns, the modern look and safety features of open riser stairs make them a popular choice for homeowners.

Do dry risers need to be enclosed?

An external inlet on the ground floor of a building should be located within an enclosure with a sign indicating it as a dry riser inlet. The enclosure should have a collecting head with two instantaneous male hose connections and a drain down valve for quick access and effective drainage. The inlet should be close to the street, as a fire truck must park within 18m of it. The inlets and their housing must comply with the BS5041 and BS 336 standards for fire hose couplings and ancillary equipment.

Pipes should have an internal diameter of 100mm for buildings with a single outlet on each floor, and 150mm for taller buildings and buildings with multiple outlets per floor. The piping should be made of specified materials and have fire-resistant shafts. Outlets on each floor should allow firefighters to attach their hose to the dry riser and pump water from the fire truck, with one or two instantaneous female hose connections and a large gate valve following BS 336 specifications.

When and where are open riser stairs used?

Open-riser stairs are a popular and functional type of staircase in modern home design, allowing for the free movement of light within interior design. They are constructed with heavy treads supported by structural stringers and the absence of vertical risers, resulting in minimal visual obstruction and maximum light presence. These stairs can be built with thick treads ranging from 1. 75″ to 4″ and can use various stringers, including wooden beam, mono stringer, and steel.

They are often used in modern staircase design, blending elements of wooden and steel stair design. Common railing ideas for open-riser staircases include contemporary metal, cable rail, and glass balustrades, all of which highlight the open tread staircase design. They are often used in combination with glass and large, open areas, bringing a blend of contemporary art and functionality to commercial buildings or home décor.

Do I need planning permission for an external staircase?

Outdoor staircases may require planning permission laws depending on the location and type of staircase. While adding outdoor steps is unlikely to require planning permission, it might be necessary. Regulations for internal and external staircases can vary between councils, so it’s advisable to consult local planning authorities before starting a project. In the construction industry, it’s better to ask for permission than forgiveness. If you have any questions about installing staircases, planning permission, or our products, our customer care team is available to assist.

What is the maximum riser height for outdoor stairs?

It is imperative that the height of the riser does not exceed 7 3/4 inches (196 mm).

What is the difference between open and closed risers?

Open and closed riser staircases are types of staircases that connect horizontal treads. Open risers have a space between each step, creating a minimalist design. Open risers are popular for their ability to let in natural light, create a light, spacious feel, and increase visibility in open plan spaces. They can also create a floating staircase appearance, especially with a glass balustrade. Closed riser stairs are a more traditional choice but can still look modern with the right design and materials. Open risers are more popular in open plan spaces, allowing for a more modern aesthetic. They also provide a more spacious feel and increase visibility in the home.

What are the disadvantages of open riser stairs?

Open riser staircases have several drawbacks, including increased injuries, especially for young children and older adults, and the risk of footcatching between steps. They are not recommended for those with poor vision or coordination. To increase safety, handrails can be added to open stair designs. Additionally, open stairs require secure anchoring due to the absence of risers, which can be more expensive than traditional, closed stair designs.

StairPartPros offers a variety of quality stair parts, including stair handrails and wood stair treads, to help with any stair project. They carry thousands of quality stair parts to help you design and build the perfect open staircase. By shopping online, you can easily find the necessary stair parts for your next staircase project.