What must stair treads and risers be in terms of their dimensions?

Stair treads and risers must adhere to specific dimensional requirements established by building codes, which aim to ensure safety and accessibility. The dimensions of both treads and risers are crucial for creating a stable and safe stairway experience.

Tread depth (the horizontal part of the stair where a person steps) and riser height (the vertical part that connects one tread to the next) play significant roles in preventing accidents, such as falls. If treads are too narrow, individuals may experience difficulty placing their foot securely, while risers that are too high can cause people to trip or stumble.

Building codes typically prescribe minimum and maximum limits for both the depth of the treads and the height of the risers. This ensures consistency across stairways, which is vital for public safety and helps accommodate individuals with varying physical abilities.

Thus, it is essential that both dimensions are aligned with code requirements, reinforcing that both size and shape are integral to the design of stair treads and risers.