What is an open riser staircase?
An open riser staircase is a stair without riser boards: there is an open gap between the treads that you can see straight through. Its counterpart is the closed stair, where a riser closes the space between two treads.
The open riser stair is chosen mainly for spatial reasons. Light and views carry through, so a hall or landing feels less enclosed, and the stair itself looks lighter. In houses with an open connection between ground and upper floor it is a common choice.
Advantages and disadvantages
For:
– More daylight and visual connection
– Looks lighter and more spacious in a narrow hall
– Less material, so often slightly cheaper in a basic specification
– Easier to clean underneath
Against:
– Without a riser a foot can slip forward through the stair; that takes getting used to and is a consideration with small children, older people and pets
– More airflow and sound between floors; an open stair acts as a chimney for warm air and, in a fire, for smoke
– Objects can fall through the stair
– Some people find an open stair uncomfortable if they dislike heights
Points to note
- In a house with young children the gaps between the treads can be closed with clear panels or loose riser boards. This is straightforward to do later without replacing the stair.
- Landing balustrade. An open riser stair says nothing about protection at the top; the usual requirements for guarding against falls still apply.
- Runner or anti-slip. An open stair often has a narrower usable tread; anti-slip nosings or a well-fixed runner prevent slipping.
- Fire and smoke compartments. A stair in an open connection between storeys can affect the escape route. Where a refurbishment opens up an enclosed stairwell, this needs checking.
- Tread span. Without risers the treads bear only on the strings; on wide stairs thicker treads or a central string are needed to avoid deflection.
Related terms
- Fall protection
- Going (tread depth)
- Spiral staircase
- Riser
- String
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