Structural Sizing of Stair Components — Glossary entry
Category: Glossary entry
Load calculation proving the load-bearing capacity of individual stair elements.
Structural sizing demonstrates mathematically that every load-bearing component of a staircase can safely carry the applied loads. Treads are checked for bending between supports, stringers for bending and shear, central beams as carriers for saddled treads, and landings for their own load case. The basis includes the expected live loads, the self-weight, material properties of the timber used and the spans between supports. Minimum dimensions for standard constructions are tabulated in the specialist literature; special stair forms or large spans require an individual structural analysis.
Related terms
Related terms: Tread, Stringers, Stringer Beam, Landing, Bearing Point.