14 Interior & Exterior Stairs – Preview
This list of selections serves as a supplement to the Construction Documents (CD’s). Some of the selections below may be difficult to find or omitted on the CD’s. Check the CD’s for consistency with this list. Clarify with your contractor which document takes precedence for any inconsistencies.
The construction drawings should have a “window schedule” which has a number assigned to each window on the floor plan. This simple table indicates, among other things, the size of each window. Verify the width and height of each window on this schedule.
Common options for additional features are described below. Take time to review this information and communicate your selections to your architect and/or builder. Your selections should be identified on the window schedule and referenced in your contract.
- Make sure stair risers do not exceed code.
- Make sure stair treads meet minimum depth required by code.
- Check that the handrail is continuous for the entire length of the stairway. Continuity can be interrupted by a newel post at a turn.
- Check for a minimum head height of 6’-8” above all portions of all stairs. This 6’-8” minimum head height is required by the building code. It is surprising how often this minimum head clearance is not achieved in new construction. It is often the result of a design error or changes to the design during the construction phase.