Stair Treads & Risers

Stair Treads & Risers

Description
Description

Stair treads and risers are fundamental components of a staircase. The tread is the horizontal part that you step on, while the riser is the vertical section between each tread. Together, they determine the comfort and safety of the staircase. The dimensions of treads and risers must be carefully balanced; a taller riser requires a deeper tread for safe and comfortable ascent or descent.

Some staircases feature open risers, with no vertical element, creating a light and airy feel. Materials for treads and risers vary, including wood, metal, stone, and glass, and should be chosen based on aesthetics, usage, and safety considerations. Building codes often dictate minimum and maximum dimensions to ensure safety.

Stair risers and treads have evolved over centuries. In ancient times, stairs were often simple stone steps. During the Middle Ages, grand staircases became architectural features in castles and palaces. The Renaissance period saw the addition of ornate details and balustrades. The Industrial Revolution introduced the use of iron and steel, leading to innovative designs. Modern stairs incorporate various materials like glass, and focus on aesthetics and functionality, with risers sometimes being eliminated for open designs.

Common Questions
Common Questions
Why are stair treads important?

Stair treads are important for safety, comfort, and accessibility. They provide a stable surface for individuals to step on while ascending or descending stairs. The depth and texture of treads are crucial in preventing slips and falls. Properly sized treads ensure a comfortable stride, reducing the risk of missteps.

Why do stair treads extend beyond risers?

Stair treads extend beyond risers to create a small overhang known as the "nosing." This extension is crucial for safety and comfort. The nosing provides additional space for the foot, making the stairs easier to navigate, especially for individuals with larger feet. It also helps in reducing the risk of tripping by ensuring a more secure foothold. Additionally, the nosing improves the visibility of each step, and in some cases, adds aesthetic appeal.

Are stair risers required to be angled?

Stair risers are not required to be angled in most building codes or regulations. The vertical orientation of risers is the standard design. However, there are instances where angled risers are used, such as in spiral staircases or certain architectural designs. These angled risers can create a unique aesthetic or accommodate specific spatial requirements. It's essential to consult local building codes and regulations to determine any specific requirements or restrictions regarding stair design in a particular jurisdiction.

* Under Development *

4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Tread & Riser Sizes
18.000
91.000
28.000
GUIDE
3D
Stair Tread & Riser Sizes
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Angled, Closed
18.000
91.000
28.000
5
https://p3d.in/e/czv94
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Angled, Closed3D model of Angled Closed Stair Profile viewed in perspective3D model of Angled Closed Stair Profile viewed in perspective
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Angled, Sawtooth
18.000
91.000
28.000
15
https://p3d.in/e/XBLN3
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Angled, SawtoothPerspective view of a 3D model of Angled Sawtooth Stair ProfilePerspective view of a 3D model of Angled Sawtooth Stair Profile
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Flat, Closed
18.000
91.000
28.000
20
https://p3d.in/e/xuuoS
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Flat, ClosedView of Flat Closed Stair Profile in 3D available for downloadView of Flat Closed Stair Profile in 3D available for download
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Flat, Sawtooth
18.000
91.000
28.000
30
https://p3d.in/e/n0Fm0
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Flat, Sawtooth3D model of Flat Sawtooth Stair Profile viewed in perspective3D model of Flat Sawtooth Stair Profile viewed in perspective
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Nosing, Closed
18.000
91.000
28.000
70
https://p3d.in/e/PNoab
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Nosing, ClosedPerspective view of a 3D model of Nosing Closed Stair ProfilePerspective view of a 3D model of Nosing Closed Stair Profile
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Nosing, Sawtooth
18.000
91.000
28.000
80
https://p3d.in/e/ulMKj
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Nosing, SawtoothView of Nosing Sawtooth Stair Profile in 3D available for downloadView of Nosing Sawtooth Stair Profile in 3D available for download
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Open, Closed
18.000
91.000
28.000
70
https://p3d.in/e/lDCl2
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Open, Closed3D model of Open Closed Stair Profile viewed in perspective3D model of Open Closed Stair Profile viewed in perspective
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Open, Floating
18.000
91.000
28.000
470
https://p3d.in/e/UDPsh
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Open, FloatingPerspective view of a 3D model of Open Floating Stair ProfilePerspective view of a 3D model of Open Floating Stair Profile
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Open, Mono
18.000
91.000
28.000
70
https://p3d.in/e/wokHh
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Open, MonoView of Open Mono Stair Profile in 3D available for downloadView of Open Mono Stair Profile in 3D available for download
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Open, Pair
18.000
91.000
28.000
70
https://p3d.in/e/DSaCj
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Open, Pair3D model of Open Pair Stair Profile viewed in perspective3D model of Open Pair Stair Profile viewed in perspective
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Open, Sawtooth
18.000
91.000
28.000
80
https://p3d.in/e/qOdrI
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Open, SawtoothPerspective view of a 3D model of Open Sawtooth Stair ProfilePerspective view of a 3D model of Open Sawtooth Stair Profile
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Profile - Open, Zigzag
18.000
91.000
28.000
90
https://p3d.in/e/jWTTi
GUIDE
3D
Stair Profile - Open, ZigzagView of Open Zigzag Stair Profile in 3D available for downloadView of Open Zigzag Stair Profile in 3D available for download
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Tread - Nosing, Bevel
18.000
91.000
28.000
5700
https://p3d.in/e/8Flz0
GUIDE
3D
Stair Tread - Nosing, Bevel3D model of Bevel Nosing Stair Tread viewed in perspective3D model of Bevel Nosing Stair Tread viewed in perspective
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Tread - Nosing, Cushion
18.000
91.000
28.000
5700
https://p3d.in/e/hI9vq
GUIDE
3D
Stair Tread - Nosing, CushionPerspective view of a 3D model of Cushion Nosing Stair TreadPerspective view of a 3D model of Cushion Nosing Stair Tread
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Tread - Nosing, Modern
18.000
91.000
28.000
5755
https://p3d.in/e/VmqJA
GUIDE
3D
Stair Tread - Nosing, ModernView of Modern Nosing Stair Tread in 3D available for downloadView of Modern Nosing Stair Tread in 3D available for download
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Tread - Nosing, Round
18.000
91.000
28.000
5810
https://p3d.in/e/Gz57V
GUIDE
3D
Stair Tread - Nosing, Round3D model of Round Nosing Stair Tread viewed in perspective3D model of Round Nosing Stair Tread viewed in perspective
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Stair Tread - Nosing, Square
18.000
91.000
28.000
5770
https://p3d.in/e/ekFAI
GUIDE
3D
Stair Tread - Nosing, SquarePerspective view of a 3D model of Square Nosing Stair TreadPerspective view of a 3D model of Square Nosing Stair Tread
Stair Profile - Flat, Closed
Scale illustration of Flat Closed Stair Profile compared to other stair profile types

Flat stair risers with closed stringers adhere to a more traditional staircase design, embodying simplicity, function, and classic style. The risers are flat and perpendicular to the treads, offering a clean, straight edge profile. Closed stringers, integral for structural support, run along both sides of the stairs, fully enclosing the treads and risers. They enhance the staircase's robustness while maintaining a streamlined appearance. This design is versatile, complementing various architectural styles and providing a timeless look. Flat risers with closed stringers exemplify the elegance of traditional design while ensuring solid, reliable construction.

Flat Closed Stair Profiles are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of Flat Closed Stair Profile seen in elevation and diagram
Flat stair risers with closed stringers adhere to a more traditional staircase design, embodying simplicity, function, and classic style. The risers are flat and perpendicular to the treads, offering a clean, straight edge profile. Closed stringers run along both sides.

Flat Closed Stair Profiles are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of Flat Closed Stair Profile seen in elevation and diagram
Stair Profile - Flat, Closed
Height:
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
Width:
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
Length:
Depth:
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Weight:
Area:

Tread Thickness: 1”-1.5” | 2.5-3.8 cm

Materials
Wood

Drawings include:

Flat Closed Stair Profile elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Stair Tread - Nosing, Round
Comparison drawing of Round Nosing Stair Tread compared to similar stair profile types

Round stair tread nosings feature a curved, rounded edge on the outer part of each stair tread, creating a smooth transition from the tread to the riser. This design enhances safety, as the rounded edge can help prevent tripping and lessen the impact in case of a stumble. Aesthetically, round nosings give a softer, fluid look to the staircase, smoothing out the typically sharp angles.

This design detail can be applied to a variety of staircase styles, from traditional to modern, contributing to an overall look of refinement and elegance. Therefore, round nosings balance functionality, safety, and design appeal.

Round Nosing Stair Treads are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm) and allowable nosing overlaps of 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm). Round nosings can have a maximum radius of .5” (1.3 cm).

Scaled set of drawings of Round Nosing Stair Tread in diagram and side views
Round stair tread nosings feature a curved, rounded edge on the outer part of each stair tread, creating a smooth transition from the tread to the riser. This design enhances safety, as the rounded edge can help prevent tripping and lessen the impact in case of a stumble.

Round Nosing Stair Treads are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm) and allowable nosing overlaps of 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm). Round nosings can have a maximum radius of .5” (1.3 cm).

Scaled set of drawings of Round Nosing Stair Tread in diagram and side views
Stair Tread - Nosing, Round
Height:
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
Width:
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
Length:
Depth:
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Weight:
Area:

Tread Thickness: 1”-1.5” | 2.5-3.8 cm

Nosing Overlap: 1”-1.5” | 2.5-3.8 cm

Nosing Radius: .5” | 1.3 cm (Max)

Materials
Wood

Drawings include:

Round Nosing Stair Tread elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Stair Profile - Open, Floating
Style and size comparison drawing of Open Floating Stair Profile compared to other stair profile types

Open floating stair risers introduce a sleek, minimalist design, often seen in contemporary architecture. These stairs appear to 'float' as they are anchored solely to a wall, leveraging the principle of cantilever to support the treads. The risers are 'open', meaning there's no solid vertical component, which adds to the illusion of floating and facilitates the flow of light. This design transforms the staircase into a statement piece, offering a visual spectacle that also serves a functional purpose. However, engineering and construction need to be precisely executed for safety and stability, making it a feat of both design and technology.

Open Floating Stair Profiles are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 2.5”-4.5” (6.4-11.4 cm) and allowable nosing overlaps of 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Open Floating Stair Profile viewed from the side
Open floating stair risers introduce a sleek, minimalist design, often seen in contemporary architecture. These stairs appear to 'float' as they are anchored solely to a wall, leveraging the principle of cantilever to support the treads.

Open Floating Stair Profiles are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 2.5”-4.5” (6.4-11.4 cm) and allowable nosing overlaps of 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Open Floating Stair Profile viewed from the side
Stair Profile - Open, Floating
Height:
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
Width:
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
Length:
Depth:
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Weight:
Area:

Tread Thickness: 2.5”-4.5” | 6.4-11.4 cm

Nosing Overlap: 1”-1.5” | 2.5-3.8 cm

Materials
Wood, steel

Drawings include:

Open Floating Stair Profile elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Stair Profile - Open, Closed
Comparison drawing of Open Closed Stair Profile compared to similar stair profile types

Open stair risers with closed stringers present a visually light and modern staircase design. Open risers lack the solid vertical component, providing a sense of openness and improving the flow of light. Despite the risers being open, closed stringers on either side encase the stair treads, providing essential structural support and a defined border. This arrangement balances the aesthetic of minimalism and openness with the robustness of closed stringers. Suitable for contemporary interior designs, this concept integrates functionality and style, creating an airy staircase that can help make spaces appear larger and more open.

Open Closed Stair Profiles are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 1.5”-4” (3.8-10.2 cm) and allowable nosing overlaps of 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm).

Scaled set of drawings of Open Closed Stair Profile in diagram and side views
Open stair risers with closed stringers present a visually light and modern staircase design. Open risers lack the solid vertical component, providing a sense of openness and improving the flow of light. Despite the risers being open, closed stringers on either side encase the stair treads.

Open Closed Stair Profiles are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 1.5”-4” (3.8-10.2 cm) and allowable nosing overlaps of 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm).

Scaled set of drawings of Open Closed Stair Profile in diagram and side views
Stair Profile - Open, Closed
Height:
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
Width:
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
Length:
Depth:
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Weight:
Area:

Tread Thickness: 1.5”-4” | 3.8-10.2 cm

Nosing Overlap: 1”-1.5” | 2.5-3.8 cm

Materials
Wood

Drawings include:

Open Closed Stair Profile elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Stair Profile - Angled, Closed
Comparison drawing of Angled Closed Stair Profile compared to similar stair profile types

Angled stair risers with closed stringers are an architectural design technique that gives stairs a dynamic and modern aesthetic. The risers are cut at angles instead of perpendicular to the treads, creating an unconventional and visually interesting appeal. Close stringers support the stairs on both sides, being either embedded within or fixed alongside the treads and risers, enhancing the staircase's structural integrity. These stringers can be hidden or visible depending on the desired aesthetic. This design approach can be applied to various stair types, combining functionality and style to elevate interior or exterior spaces.

Angled Closed Stair Profiles are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm) and allowable nosing overlaps of 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm). The maximum allowable riser angle is 30 degrees.

Scaled set of drawings of Angled Closed Stair Profile in diagram and side views
Angled stair risers with closed stringers are an architectural design technique that gives stairs a dynamic and modern aesthetic. The risers are cut at angles instead of perpendicular to the treads, creating an unconventional and visually interesting appeal.

Angled Closed Stair Profiles are constructed with typical stair tread thicknesses between 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm) and allowable nosing overlaps of 1”-1.5” (2.5-3.8 cm). The maximum allowable riser angle is 30 degrees.

Scaled set of drawings of Angled Closed Stair Profile in diagram and side views
Stair Profile - Angled, Closed
Height:
4”-7” | 10-18 cm (Riser)
Width:
36” | 91 cm (Typical)
Length:
Depth:
11” | 28 cm (Tread Minimum)
Weight:
Area:

Tread Thickness: 1”-1.5” | 2.5-3.8 cm

Nosing Overlap: 1”-1.5” | 2.5-3.8 cm

Riser Angle: 30 degree (Max)

Materials
Wood

Drawings include:

Angled Closed Stair Profile elevation, plan, front

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads