Floating stairways can be safe for children when built in compliance with the International Residential Code (IRC) standards. By following proper safety guidelines, these open-riser staircases pose no risk.
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Are Floating Stairs Safe?
Floating stairways can be safe for children when constructed according to International Residential Code (IRC) standards. With proper adherence to safety guidelines, these open-riser staircases pose no risk. This article explores the building codes designed to provide peace of mind for families with young children
What Makes a Staircase Dangerous?
When considering floating staircases, it’s essential to focus on three main safety factors: weight capacity, fall-through risks, and slip prevention. These factors are crucial in ensuring the safety of open-riser staircases, especially in homes with children. Always confirm that the staircase meets these safety standards to minimize any potential hazards.
How much weight can floating staircase support?
To ensure floating stairs are safe, it’s important to check their weight capacity. The IRC requires each tread to support a concentrated load of 200 lbs per square foot. High-quality floating stairs, such as those from bellointeriors, are tested by third parties and can hold over 2,000 lbs, providing a safety margin 10 times greater than the standard requirement. This guarantees both durability and safety for everyday use.
According to the IRC, stairways cannot have open risers greater than 4 inches. For instance, if the total rise is 7.25 inches (measured from the top of one step to the top of the next) and the tread is 3.5 inches, the gap between the steps would be 3.75 inches. These codes are specifically designed with the safety of small children in mind, ensuring that any child able to climb stairs won’t be at risk of falling through the open risers.
