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Stair Supplies

Stair Treads

by Andrew Kozlov

Repairing stair treads requires exacting carpentry acumen. Building code regulations for stair treads can be pretty strict, even if you're only designing for a domestic use staircase. To get a rough idea of your stair measurement parameters, add twice the length of the rise and one time the length of the "going," a.k.a. the tread length. This number should be no more than 700 mm and no less than 550 mm.

Metal cleats usually support the stair treads. These get fashioned into the underlying stair "stringers." Typically, the stringers are either 2X12 inch or 2X10 inch boards put together. If you want to build a staircase with wide treads--more than 36 inches in width--you should add a third stringer. To calculate the number of treads you'll need, simply figure out how many risers you need and subtract one.

Calculating Stair Tread Dimensions

The minimum "going" for your tread--the length between the nosing that hangs off two consecutive risers--should be at least 220 mm. This minimum length is designed to accommodate large feet. However, if you plan to install carpeting over your stare treads, you need to take this additional height into account when plotting out your rise and go measurements.

In terms of minimum width for treads, there is no universal standard. However, to ensure the comfort of your stair users, you should make sure that the treads are at least 600 mm in width, even if the staircase only leads to a seldom used room, like an attic. Stair treads are comprised of two boards each, but you should replace both boards at once, even if you're only having a problem with one of the boards.

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