Content
- Introduction
- Construction type of stairs
- BCA requirements
- Accessories for outdoor stairs without risers (open stairs)
- Ladder accessories – with and without steps (opening and closing stairs)
- How to build stairs
- Railings and railings
- Weather resistance, finishing and maintenance
- Annex
- Dictionary
Preface
Stair and railing work is considered a separate part of carpentry and joinery. This document pertains to both straight and curved staircases, whether they present hazards or not, and can be used both indoors and outdoors with railings.
A workshop fully utilizes existing machinery and equipment to design interior stairs. The design of indoor staircases can vary greatly, from simple straight planes commonly used for domestic purposes to elaborate staircases custom-built as an attractive feature in public and commercial buildings and large homes.
High-quality engineered and sustainable timbers typically construct outdoor staircases, while high-quality sawn timbers, finished to a high standard, construct indoor staircases. The finish for external staircases is paint, and internal staircases are clear varnished, so all materials and finishes must be of a very high standard.
The construction methods described here may be more or less general for all stages of traditional or modern construction.
When building a structure with external and/or internal staircases, foundations, concrete slabs, etc., one must first decide on the height of the stairs and the amount of ground clearance necessary for access. The interior space is designed to accommodate the use of stairs and provide ample space. Before ordering steps, it is necessary to determine the length of rope, new landing gear, mounts, and the number of legs required. See Appendix B for the calculations necessary to determine these factors.
The construction industry intends to use this guide for designing, producing, and constructing wooden stairs and railings. We provide information about both front and back stairs. Both open stairs (without risers) and closed stairs (with risers) are also available.
Additionally, we consider the choice of wood type, its durability, and its finish. Annexes B and C include examples of staircase calculations and offer suggestions on these topics.
Rejection We have carefully prepared the information, ideas, advice, and recommendations contained in this publication. We solely provide them to those interested in technical questions related to timber and its description and use. We have made every effort to keep this guide up to date with current practice and technology, but it does not aim to be a comprehensive list of all relevant information.
Since many factors not included in this book affect design and construction, the authors and editors disclaim all liability for any errors or omissions in this book, as well as for any explanations or work omitted or reproduced in reliance on this book.
Requirements This book focuses on traditional practice and the Building Code of Australia (BCA). State requirements may also differ, and the BCA may undergo adjustments. This manual should help readers understand the changes and their effects. You should only use this book in this manner.
Timber Durability and Species
Stringers, treads, risers, handrails, posts, newels, balusters, and infill should be weather-resistant in above-ground or moisture-prone areas.
(i) For warm, humid, tropical northern regions, choose Above Ground Durability Class 1 species with sapwood treated to H3 or higher, or H3 (or higher) treated softwood like Slash, Hoop, or Radiata Pine. Apply the preservative treatment according to AS 1604.
(ii) Use Above Ground Durability Class 2 or higher species in temperate, chilly southern regions, with sapwood treated to H3 (or higher), or H3 (or higher) softwood, such as slash, hoop, or Radiata pine. AS 1604 governs preservative treatment. You can use lower durability species with proper joint details, protective coatings (paints, stains), and/or protective shielding (e.g., malthoid) on exposed timber edges.
Table 3.1 lists the suitable species. We do not recommend Meranti, Victorian Ash, Tasmanian Oak, and Douglas Fir for weather-exposed structural applications.
2. In difficult regions, lumber with a sawn upper face has better long-term weathering capabilities than a finished surface. Weather-exposed step treads should be sawn all around or sized on two edges and one face (underside).
3. Timber species used in structural applications in Queensland, such as stairs and balustrades, must adhere to the Building Code of Australia’s ‘Construction Timbers in Queensland’ standard.
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