Ask Beej

 A Staircase can be a Showcase and the focal point of an otherwise Drab Room.

 Stairs and Stairways are an item you really need to plan ahead for. They take up a lot of space and must be built correctly. Doesn't mean you can't do it, you just need to make sure you're doing it right.

There is formula in your book. No matter which book it is, they will all be similar. Once again, check your local codes as to maximum step height (rise) and minimum tread depth. My county is max rise = 7.5" and min tread = 9.5". If you add the two together, you get 17". So if you have a rise of 7", you would have a tread of 10". We call this the "scientific" method.

We have an associate who uses an old school method of, Rise x 2 subtracted from 25 = tread. We call this the "Miller" method.

Either method will work. The important item about stairways is consistency. All the steps need to be of equal height. This allows a rhythm to your steps and allows you to comfortably "predict" the steps as you go up or down. Variations in step rise lead to dangerous steps!

So check your book for the formula. You can decide to build the stairway with stringers, in a straight run or platforms for winders and steps that change direction. Landings allow for cleaver nooks and storage space.

Stairs to a loft don't have to be a straight run of steps. Winders are always cool.

The loft itself is a great use of space that would normally be unused attic. More on lofts.

Look back soon for a collection of stairways.

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