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Regulations regarding the construction of railings and stairways for outdoor decks are highly rigorous, as well-constructed decks play a crucial role in minimizing the risk of severe injuries.
According to estimates from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, between 2016 and 2019, approximately 2,900 injuries were attributed to the failure or collapse of decks and balconies. As building code regulations for decks are frequently updated, it is important to stay informed about the most recent changes.
For instance, if your existing deck features toe-nailed connections—where nails are angled through the joints to secure the wood—it’s important to note that this method is no longer recognized as acceptable under the latest International Building Code (IBC). While decks built with older techniques may be exempt under grandfather clauses, any new construction, remodeling, or repairs to existing decks must comply with the updated regulations.
Continue reading to discover essential information about deck stair regulations, associated terminology, and important considerations for constructing a deck with stairs.
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Terminology Related to Deck Codes
The International Code Council created the International Building Code (IBC) as a framework for states, municipalities, and other local entities to implement and modify as needed. Your local jurisdiction might choose to adopt the IBC to better serve the requirements of its community. It’s important to consult with your local permitting office and review the relevant codes prior to commencing any construction.
Grasping the requirements of the IBC code becomes simpler when you have a clear comprehension of the terminology involved.
- A guardrail, often referred to as a guard, is a horizontal barrier positioned along a landing or any flat surface that has a drop on one side. According to the code, a guardrail is distinct from a railing, which is a comparable structure typically located on staircases.
- A railing serves as a protective barrier for staircases, extending along the slope of the stairs as they ascend and descend.
- Balusters are slender vertical posts that are positioned between the guardrail or railing. Their primary purpose is to safeguard individuals, especially children, from the risk of falling off the deck through the gaps beneath an angled stair railing or the horizontal guardrail.
- Grade refers to the elevation of the ground that is immediately next to the deck.
- Low-rise decks, often referred to as ground-level or floating decks, are structures that are no more than 30 inches above the ground. As a result, they are not subject to specific regulations regarding guardrails and balusters. Additionally, one of the advantages of low-rise decks is that they typically do not necessitate a building permit.
- Rise refers to the vertical measurement between two consecutive stair treads.
- Tread: The tread refers to the horizontal surface of a staircase where you step.
Tip
Before finalizing the design, dimensions, and features of your deck, it’s essential to consult your local authorities, as regulations and limitations can differ significantly from one location to another. The following suggestions provide general advice, but it’s crucial to verify the specific requirements applicable to your area.
Height of Deck Guardrails
Guardrails on decks must be a minimum of 36 inches tall above the level of residential decks. This height is the standard requirement for residential buildings, although taller guardrails are permitted. For commercial decks, including those at restaurants, bars, and multifamily residences like apartments or condominiums, the minimum height for guardrails is 42 inches.
When is it unnecessary to have a guardrail on a deck?
Certain decks do not need guardrails if they are less than 30 inches above the ground. If you come across a deck without guardrails, often referred to as a low-rise deck, it is likely because it meets this height requirement.
Safety Barriers on Low-Height Platforms
Despite having short, low-profile decks, numerous homeowners choose to install guardrails.
Should you choose to add a guardrail to a low deck, you have the flexibility to determine its height and the distance between the balusters. Nonetheless, it is essential that these guardrails maintain the same level of strength as those found on elevated decks. It is recognized that individuals may lean on the guardrails, and regulations stipulate that they must be robust enough to withstand any potential collapse.
Incorporating handrails on a low-rise deck is generally a wise choice. Additionally, guardrails on such decks can provide valuable support for individuals with disabilities.
Specifications for Deck Stairs
The IBC guidelines for structural design include specific criteria for deck staircases, handrails, risers, and treads.
Handrails for Stairs
The height of stair rails on decks should range from 34 to 38 inches, measured vertically from the edge of the tread to the top of the railing.
Step Covers
The treads should have a minimum depth of 10 inches when measured from front to back, and a minimum width of 36 inches. Ideally, a width of 48 inches is preferable to ensure the stairs feel spacious. Additionally, they need to be capable of supporting a weight of at least 300 pounds over a maximum area of four square inches.
Stair treads can consist of a single piece of two-by-twelve lumber, but they are commonly constructed using two decking boards, often two-by-sixes.
Stair Elevation
The rise, defined as the vertical measurement between consecutive treads, must not exceed 7 3/4 inches. Conversely, the minimum rise for stairs is set at 4 inches. The overall rise refers to the height of the staircase from the landing to the upper surface of the decking.
Deck Railings and Seating
Make sure that other components of your deck, such as balusters and benches, comply with regulations.
- Deck balusters must be spaced no more than four inches apart. A common guideline is that a ball with a four-inch diameter should just be able to pass through the gaps. This measurement is based on the average size of a baby’s head to ensure that it does not become trapped. Additionally, when balusters meet a lower railing, the distance between the bottom of the railing and the deck should also not exceed four inches.
- Deck benches: Homeowners who want to maintain their views from the deck might consider benches as a replacement for guardrails. However, benches cannot serve as a valid substitute. For decks that are high enough to necessitate guardrails, these must be positioned behind the benches, extending to a minimum height of 36 inches above the deck surface.
Minimum Load Requirements for Guardrails and Balusters
The durability of guardrails and balusters is typically assessed by a building inspector who applies pressure by leaning or pushing on these elements. In commercial settings, this evaluation might be conducted by an independent testing agency equipped with tools that can exert forces of up to 500 pounds to ensure safety.
- Guardrail strength specifications: According to the International Building Code, guardrails are required to withstand a force of 200 pounds at the midpoint between the posts, ensuring minimal deflection.
- Strength criteria for balusters: Balusters and infill rails are required to withstand a minimum concentrated load of 50 pounds during testing.
What are the recommendations for constructing a landing for deck stairs? The landing at the deck stairs ought to be 36 inches wide and should be the same width as the stairs themselves. In what ways do the regulations for deck stairs differ from one state to another?
The majority of state and local regulations adhere to the International Residential Code, with minor modifications to account for local conditions such as temperature variations, frost levels, soil types, and severe weather trends.
Is it possible for deck stair treads to be narrower than 32 inches?
In many areas across the United States, the minimum width for deck stair treads is typically 36 inches. However, local regulations may permit treads that are 32 inches wide or narrower.
