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 2 of 6: Measure Tread Depth

For each step, use a tape measure to determine the tread depth. Place the tape measure at the very front edge of the tread and extend it horizontally to where the tread meets the riser. Record this measurement for every step. It's common for tread depths to vary slightly, so note each individual measurement.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Measure Outdoor Stairs for Treads

1. Step 1: Inspect Existing Stair Structure

   • 0:00–0:13 Assess Existing Stairs and Planning
   • 0:00–0:59 Assess Existing Unsafe Staircase
   • 0:00–0:12 Remove Old Stairs and Assess Site

2. Step 2: Measure Tread Depth

   • 0:31–1:01 Measure Riser Height and Tread Depth Consistency (this video)
   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 0:55–1:05 Measure and Cut First Tread

3. Step 3: Measure Tread Width

   • 0:21–0:53 Measure Stair Tread Width
   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 7:25–8:46 Measure Winder Steps Width

4. Step 4: Measure Riser Height

   • 1:44–2:33 Calculate Riser Height (Option 2) and Verify Code Compliance
   • 1:24–1:56 Repeat for All Risers and Measure Variation
   • 4:32–5:10 Calculate Individual Riser Height

5. Step 5: Check for Stair Squareness and Level

   • 1:11–2:23 Identify and Measure Out-of-Square Deviations
   • 12:00–14:21 Check Tread Level and Stringer Fit
   • 0:18–0:24 Verify Overall Frame Squareness, Plumb, and Level

6. Step 6: Document All Measurements and Irregularities

   • 3:09–4:52 Record All Measurements on Template
   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 1:36–2:16 Measure Worn Sections for Code Compliance