Design for Elderly and Disabled Environments:

Making Homes More Comfortable and Accessible

StairsPart 8 of 10

Contents

• Common Barriers

• Remodeled Stairs

• Treads and Risers

• Railings

• Drop-Offs

• Additional Changes

• Replacing Stairs

Common Barriers

• Handrail is mounted too

high for many users.

• Stairs lack handrails with

horizontal extension at

both ends of the railing.

• Unprotected drop-off

• Slick tread coverings,

surfaces, or finishes offer

poor traction.

Common Barriers

• Handrail design is

difficult to grip.

• Handrail is too far from

the wall, leaving space to

wedge an arm during a

fall.

• Stairway is poorly

lighted.

Remodeled Stairs

• Handrails are shaped to provide a continuous, easily gripped surface.

• Light fixtures in dark stairways improve safety and usability.

• A handrail extension can turn a corner at the top of the stairs.

Treads and Risers

• Select stair coverings and finishes that offer good traction

• Contrasting colors may help distinguish between riser and tread

• Rounded nosings may be used instead of square, sharper ones

Treads and Risers

• Uniform size per stair, over the entire stairway

• Deeper treads offer more footing

• Older stairs tend to be too steep

Railings

• Mount handrails 30-38 inches above floor surface

• Consider installing a lower handrail for children and smaller adults

• Place rails on both sides of the stairs

Railings

• Consider Round rails 1 1/4”- 2” in diameter

• Place 1 1/2” away from the wall

• Add level extensions at the end of landings for support

Drop-Offs

• Unprotected drop-offs are potential hazards

• Half-walls, balustrades or barriers are appropriate

• State and Local codes regulate these extensively

Summary

• Install temporary lifts

• Install abrasive strips

• Install wood bevels

• Paint Treads and Risers