Top safety considerations for installing a new staircase

There’s much to think about when it comes to designing and installing a new staircase – from styles and materials to accessories and colours – but have you taken time to think about safety regulations?

It’s a monotonous task, but completely necessary to ensure yourself, your family and your guests are protected.

Here are some of the top safety considerations you need to make when installing your new staircase.

Risers and treads

Treads and risers together are what make your steps.

The tread is the part of the step which is trodden on while climbing or descending the stairs, and the riser is the vertical part that connects the steps.

Building regulations in the UK state that all steps should be level. That means, if your first two steps have a 200mm riser, you’ll need 200mm risers throughout.

Your treads should also measure between 50-65mm.

Staircase pitch

The maximum pitch of a domestic staircase should be no more than 42 degrees.

If there are more than 36 steps on your flight of stairs, you must have at least one change of direction of at least 30 degrees.anding area must be present at both the top and bottom of every flight of stairs - they need to be clear of permanent obstructions and doors shouldn’t swing open any closer than 400mm onto the front step.

All landings should be level, except the ground floor, which can have a gradient no greater than 5%.

Handrails

You might be wondering whether or not you really need a handrail – but we’re here to tell you that you do.

After all, they’re an essential safety feature and their importance should never be overlooked.

They’re especially important if your stairs are wider than one metre, and UK building regulations stipulate that handrail height should be between 900mm and 1000mm, measured from the pitch line of your staircase to the top of your handrail.

Spindle spacing

When planning your staircase renovation, spacing staircase spindles can sometimes be a little tricky.

It’s important your spindles are appropriately spaced for a secure balustrade, a safe journey up and down the stairs and to ensure that you’re adhering to the latest building regulations in the UK

Building regulations state that a 100mm sphere shouldn’t be able to pass through any gaps.

Design the perfect staircase at Pear Stairs

Of course, looks are important when it comes to renovating your staircase, but they’re not everything.

It’s vital to make sure you follow the above safety considerations along with others when planning and installing your staircase, to ensure its safe to use and serves you for years to come.

If you’re unsure about anything or have any questions regarding building regulations, be sure to get in touch with our experts today.

Give us a call on 01938 553 311 or email webenquiries@pearstairs.co.uk – we’re more than happy to help!