Entries by Stair101

At which angle should stairs be installed?

What is the Ideal Angle for Staircase Installation According to OSHA? Summary The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States mandates that fixed industrial stairs must be installed at an angle between 30 and 50 degrees to the horizontal. This range ensures a balance between safety, comfort, and efficient use of space. […]

Do stairs go in before flooring?

When Should a Staircase Be Installed During the Construction or Remodeling Process? Summary In most cases, a staircase is one of the final elements to be installed in a home, typically after walls are finished and flooring is laid on the lower level. This sequencing minimizes the risk of damage to the staircase during other […]

How much does labor cost to install stair treads and risers?

How Much Does Labor Cost to Install Stair Treads and Risers? Brief Summary The labor cost for installing stair treads and risers varies depending on several factors, but generally ranges from $500 to $8,000 or more. Some contractors charge per stair (typically $100 or more per tread and riser), while others charge by the hour […]

How far should a stair tread overhang?

Demystifying Stair Tread Overhang: How Far Should a Stair Tread Extend Beyond the Riser? Brief Summary In the United States, building codes dictate that a stair tread should overhang the riser beneath it by a minimum of ¾ inch and a maximum of 1 ¼ inch. This overhang, known as the nosing, serves both functional […]

What goes on first stair tread or riser?

Staircase Construction 101: What Goes On First, the Stair Tread or the Riser? Unveiling the Sequence of Installation Brief Summary In the conventional staircase construction process, the risers are installed before the treads. This order facilitates structural support, visual uniformity, and the incorporation of the tread nosing, contributing to a safe and aesthetically pleasing staircase. […]

Should stair treads be nailed or screwed?

Demystifying Stair Tread Fastening: Should You Nail or Screw Your Stair Treads? Brief Summary While both nails and screws can effectively secure stair treads, the preferred method depends on various factors, including the staircase’s usage, aesthetic considerations, and potential future maintenance needs. Screws generally offer greater strength and durability, while nails are typically faster and […]

How do you make indoor stairs safe?

Demystifying Stair Tread Depth: How Deep Should Interior Stair Treads Be? A Comprehensive Guide to Stair Tread Depth and Safety Brief Summary In the United States, the International Residential Code (IRC) mandates a minimum tread depth of 10 inches (with nosing) or 11 inches (without nosing) for interior stairs. This ensures adequate foot space and […]

How deep should interior stair treads be?

How Deep Should Interior Stair Treads Be? A Comprehensive Guide to Stair Tread Depth and Safety Brief Summary In the United States, the International Residential Code (IRC) mandates a minimum tread depth of 10 inches (with nosing) or 11 inches (without nosing) for interior stairs. This ensures adequate foot space and minimizes the risk of […]

How do you make hardwood stairs safer?

How Can You Enhance the Safety of Hardwood Stairs? Brief Summary Hardwood stairs, while aesthetically pleasing, can pose a significant slip and fall risk. Enhancing their safety involves addressing slipperiness, ensuring proper dimensions and maintenance, and adding supportive features like adequate lighting and handrails. Expanded Answer The allure of hardwood stairs lies in their natural […]

How do you tighten stair treads?

How to Tighten Stair Treads: Securing Your Footing and Silence the Squeaks Loose stair treads are a common nuisance, causing both safety concerns and annoying squeaks. Tightening them involves securing the connection between the tread and the riser or stringer. Methods include: Top-down fastening: Driving screws or nails through the tread into the riser or […]