Measure Riser Height and Tread Depth Consistency

What happens in this clip

To perform a precise measurement, take a framing square and position it firmly against the riser and tread of a step. Place the short arm of the square on the tread and the long arm vertically against the riser above it. Note the measurement at the top of the riser. Then, position the long arm of the square along the tread, extending towards the front edge (nosing) of the step, and the short arm vertically against the riser of the step below. Note the measurement for the tread depth. Repeat this process for every step on the staircase. The purpose is to compare the measurements for each riser and tread, ensuring they are consistent throughout the staircase. The video demonstrates this technique on a theoretically perfect staircase to show expected uniformity.

Goal: Utilize a framing square to accurately measure the riser height and tread depth at multiple points on each step, checking for consistency and any variations.

What's used

Tools

• Framing Square

About the full video

This video illustrates how to perform a visual and measurement-based inspection of older staircases to identify wear and tear that could result in building code violations related to riser height and tread depth. It emphasizes the importance of checking for consistency between steps to ensure safety and compliance, particularly for homeowners undertaking remodeling projects. While the requested context was Electrical Code Compliance, this video specifically addresses structural building codes for stairways.

Step 3 of 4: Measure Total Tread Depth (Including Nosing)

Place the tape measure at the very front edge of the stair tread's nosing. Extend the tape measure straight back along the tread surface until it reaches the riser. This measurement should be the sum of the tread depth (from step 1) and the nosing overhang (from step 2). Record this total depth.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Measure Stair Tread Depth and Nosing Overhang

1. Step 1: Measure Stair Tread Depth

   • 0:54–1:39 Measure Stair Tread Depth
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 0:24–0:56 Understanding Tread Depth and Nosing

2. Step 2: Measure Nosing Overhang

   • 0:55–1:13 Measure and Mark Tread and Nosing
   • 5:03–6:09 Determine Tread Overhang and Length
   • 0:28–1:15 Measure and Mark Nosing Length

3. Step 3: Measure Total Tread Depth (Including Nosing)

   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 0:54–1:39 Measure Stair Tread Depth
   • 0:31–1:01 Measure Riser Height and Tread Depth Consistency (this video)

4. Step 4: Record Measurements

   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 0:31–1:01 Measure Riser Height and Tread Depth Consistency
   • 0:55–1:13 Measure and Mark Tread and Nosing