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What are the Standard Rules and Regulations for Indoor Staircases in the US? In general, US building codes mandate that indoor stairs must have a minimum width of 36 inches, headroom of 6 feet 8 inches, maximum riser height of 7 ¾ inches, and minimum tread depth of 10 inches. Open risers (if present) must […]
What Are the Stair Requirements for Construction Sites in Oregon? Oregon OSHA mandates specific stair requirements for construction projects to ensure worker safety. Key provisions include landings at least 30 inches deep and 22 inches wide for every 12 feet of vertical rise on temporary stairs. Detailed Stairway Regulations in Oregon OSHA for Construction Oregon […]
Stair Handrail Requirements in Oregon: A Comprehensive Guide Brief Summary In Oregon, adherence to specific building codes ensures the safety and accessibility of staircases in residential buildings. Handrails, a crucial component of stair safety, must meet precise requirements regarding height, clearance, and grip size. These standards, largely aligned with the International Residential Code (IRC), are […]
Stair Spindle Alternatives: Beyond the Traditional What is an alternative to stair spindles? While traditional wooden spindles remain a popular choice for staircases, several modern and stylish alternatives are gaining popularity in the USA: Glass Panels: These offer an open and airy feel, maximizing light flow and creating a contemporary aesthetic. They can be framed […]
Attaching Balusters to a Railing: Methods and Best Practices How do you attach balusters to a railing? Balusters, those vertical supports that grace your staircase, are typically secured to the railing (or handrail) using a few common methods: Nails or Screws: These are driven through the top of the baluster into the underside of the […]
Securing Stair Balusters: Methods and Considerations How do you secure balusters to the floor? Stair balusters are primarily attached to the floor (specifically, the tread or the riser) using one of these common methods: Dowels: A hole is drilled into the tread or riser, and a matching dowel is inserted into both the baluster and […]
Replacing Stair Balusters: What They Attach To and Why It Matters What do stair balusters attach to? Stair balusters, the vertical posts supporting the handrail, typically attach at two points: Bottom: Into the tread (the horizontal step) or the riser (the vertical part between steps) using a dowel, a mortise and tenon joint, or sometimes […]
Demystifying Staircase Terminology: Balusters vs. Pickets While the terms balusters, spindles, and pickets are often used interchangeably, they do possess subtle distinctions. Balusters are typically more ornate, decorative vertical supports seen in traditional architecture. Spindles are simpler, often turned on a lathe, and prevalent in classic American homes. Pickets, on the other hand, are generally […]
Vertical Support in Stair Railings: What’s That Piece Called? Summary The vertical piece that connects the stair tread or the bottom rail to the handrail is called a baluster, though it can also be referred to as a spindle or picket. These vertical members play an essential role in staircase safety and aesthetics, providing support […]
When are Stair Railings or Handrails Required? Summary: Building codes mandate that a flight of stairs must have railings or handrails when it has four or more risers or rises more than 30 inches in height, whichever is less. Additionally, any unprotected side or edge of a stairway also necessitates the installation of a stair […]