How To Use A Block Of Wood To Check Stairway Riser Variations - Building Code Tools
Stair Riser Consistency: Why Small Variations Matter & How to Catch Them
When building stairs, achieving consistent riser heights is crucial for safety and code compliance. Even seemingly minor variations can create an uneven rhythm, increasing the risk of trips and falls. This article explains why riser consistency matters and demonstrates a simple technique to ensure your stairs meet the mark.
Why Riser Variation is a Problem
Imagine ascending a staircase where each step feels slightly different. This inconsistency disrupts your natural gait and can cause you to stumble. Building codes recognize this hazard and typically limit the allowable variation between risers to 3/8 of an inch. Here's why:
Trip Hazards: Uneven risers can catch your toe or cause you to misjudge the step height, leading to trips and falls.
Discomfort and Fatigue: Inconsistent steps make climbing more awkward and tiring, especially for people with mobility issues.
The Story Stick Method: A Simple Solution
A "story stick" is a handy tool for measuring and marking consistent riser heights. Here's how it works:
Choose Your Material: Select a straight piece of wood or another rigid material that's slightly longer than your total rise.
Mark the Heights: Carefully measure and mark the desired riser height on the stick. For example, if your ideal riser height is 7 1/4 inches, make a clear mark at that measurement.
Transfer the Marks: Use the story stick to transfer the riser height mark onto each stringer. This ensures that all your riser cuts will be identical.
Double-Check: After cutting the risers, use the story stick again to verify the actual height of each riser. This helps you catch any variations that may have occurred during cutting.
Example Scenario:
Let's say you have a staircase with four risers. Using a tape measure, you find the following heights:
While these measurements seem close, the variation between the tallest and shortest riser is 1/8 of an inch and within the limit allowed by many building codes. This staircase would likely pass inspection.
Benefits of the Story Stick:
Accuracy: It provides a consistent reference point for marking and checking riser heights.
Efficiency: It speeds up the layout process and reduces the chance of errors.
Simplicity: It's an easy-to-use tool that requires no special skills or equipment.
By paying close attention to riser consistency and utilizing the story stick technique, stair builders can create stairs that are not only safe and functional but also aesthetically pleasing and built to last.
