Construction of stairs

At the moment there are different stairs. Stairs are divided by many factors: by material they are made of, by shape, by location, by style etc. Stairs can be simple and multitier, classical and modern, straight and circular. But each stairs consist of certain number of elements which shall be present in any stairs construction. Construction of each stairs shall meet three basic principles – reliability, safety and convenience.

Construction of stairs: bearing structures

Any stairs are mounted in the space with the help of bearing structures. They can be string-boards, bridgeboards, step-supports or beams.

String-boards are side sloping details of stairs supporting steps from the bottom and from both sides. Bridgeboards are beams supporting steps from the bottom. Step-supports are steel bolts inbuilt into the wall, on which stair step is mounted. Beams are central bearing structure of circular stairs.

Bearing structures can be made of wood, metal, or of combination of different materials.

Construction of stairs. Steps: basic elements, types, materials

One of the main elements of stairs is steps. Steps of stairs consist of tread (horizontal side) and tread rise (vertical side).

By shape and target use steps are divided into straight and turn. In turn tread internal edge is narrow, and external edge is wide, which allows solving the problem of absence of separating landing at the turn of stairs. Besides, steps can be sloped, wedge-shaped and arched.

Steps can be made of wood, metal, concrete, stone or plastic. Each of these materials has its advantages and shortcomings.

Construction of stairs. Enclosure of stairs: rails and rail posts

To increase movement convenience and safety, any stairs shall be equipped with enclosure. As a rule, enclosure of stairs consists of rails and rail posts.

Rail posts are vertical elements of stairs which are supporting beams for fastening of rails and handrails. Rail posts are not only a functional element of stairs, but also a decorative element which can change appearance of the whole stairs. Rail posts can be made of wood, bronze, cast iron or brass. Metal rail posts decorated with shaped forged elements will add some romance and refinement to interior.