Attic Steps

[bkelly1]

Builder in the area is notorious for his steps to be like this. City officials let it go everytime.

[Marcel R. Cyr]

Hi. Ben;

Are you referring to the fact that there is no railings on the left side as you go up and no mid-support of the stringers for this type of run of the stair?

Marcel
</IMG></IMG>

[Jay Moge]

i'd guess mid supports. but if the builder istalls one of those fridges in every unit, that ot' to hold 'er.

[Joe Funderburk, CMI]

Can you guys please cite the code that says when mid-supports are needed? I need the reference for future use. Have done a word search for "stairway" on the IRC and don't see anything.

[Marcel R. Cyr]

Sorry, the only thing I can share is Common Sense and Standard of Practice for this Trade.

Typically, if the stringer length is 16 feet or longer a mid-support will be added to eliminate the bounce in the stairs. Stairs wider than four feet will usually have four stringers.
Stringers cut out of a two x twelve member should have a minimum of 3&1/2 inches left below the notch.

Code also states that the maximum riser be no more than 7&3/4" and a minimum of 10".

I would recommend anytime to have a riser 7" or less and no less that an 11" tread. Very comfortable.

Typical standard house would have an eight foot foundation - 4" for the slab and framed with 2"x10" joist for a total height of 8' 7 7/8" for 15 risers at 6 15/16" or 14 risers for 7 7/16" and a run of 12' 6" or 10' 10". No mid support of the stringers would be required.

The string length at the maximum would be only 12' and 3/16".

As an HI. I would note what is there and note if it does not meet the IRC in relation to riser and tread. That's it.

Hope this helps.

Marcel
</IMG></IMG>