What is the turn in a staircase called?

Staircase Turns: Understanding the Terminology and Types

Brief Summary

In staircase design, a change in direction is often achieved using specialized steps or landings. The most common terms for a turn in a staircase are landing and winder.

• Landing: A flat platform that connects two flights of stairs going in different directions, typically at a 90-degree or 180-degree angle.
• Winder: A wedge-shaped or triangular step used to smoothly transition the staircase around a corner without a landing.

Expanded Answer

Landings: The Transitional Platforms

• Function and Purpose: Landings are flat, level areas incorporated into a staircase to allow for changes in direction. They also serve as resting points, especially important in longer staircases or for people with mobility challenges.
• Types:
  • Quarter-Space Landing: Used when the staircase turns 90 degrees.
  • Half-Space Landing: Used for a 180-degree turn in a staircase.
  • Multi-Level Landing: Connects multiple flights of stairs at different elevations.
• Building Code Requirements:
  • Minimum Dimensions: Landings must meet specific size requirements based on the staircase’s width and anticipated traffic flow, ensuring adequate space for movement and safety.
  • Handrails: Continuous handrails are typically required on both sides of landings for support and guidance.
  • Lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial on landings to prevent accidents and ensure visibility.

Winders: The Winding Steps

• Definition: Winders are specialized steps that are wider at one end and narrower at the other, allowing for a smooth transition around a corner without a landing.
• Placement: They are typically located at the inner curve of a staircase turn.
• Advantages:
  • Space-Saving: Winders can be a space-efficient solution compared to landings, especially in tight areas or where maximizing floor space is a priority.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: They can add visual interest and create a flowing, continuous feel in a staircase.
• Considerations:
  • Building Code Limitations: Building codes often restrict the use of winders or mandate specific dimensions and tread depth requirements to ensure safety.
  • Navigation Challenges: Winders can be trickier to navigate than standard stairs, especially for those with mobility issues or carrying large objects.
  • Structural Considerations: Proper framing and support are crucial for winders to ensure stability and prevent unevenness or squeaking.

Choosing Between Landings and Winders

The choice between landings and winders depends on several factors:

• Available Space: If space is limited, winders may be a more practical option.
• Design Aesthetic: Landings can be designed as architectural features, while winders offer a more continuous and flowing look.
• Safety & Accessibility: Landings are generally considered safer and more accessible than winders, especially for those with mobility limitations.
• Building Codes: Consult local building codes to confirm any restrictions or requirements regarding the use of winders in your staircase design.

Conclusion

The “turn” in a staircase can be achieved through either a landing or winders, each offering unique advantages and design considerations. Landings prioritize safety and accessibility while providing a resting point, whereas winders maximize space efficiency and create a flowing aesthetic. By understanding these options and adhering to building codes, you can create a staircase that meets both your functional and aesthetic needs.