Replies

1. 
   woodguy99 | Mar 05, 2006 11:08pm | #1

   36" clear above handrail height.  Handrails and below can project I think 2.5" into the 36" space.  Newel posts can project into 36" space.

   Stairs that are 36" wide feel pretty narrow; it's nice when you can make them 42" or even 48".  On the other hand, for things like a "storage loft" you can use a captain's ladder for access, which is in the range of 16" to 24".

2. 
   philarenewal | Mar 05, 2006 11:08pm | #2

   Local codes vary.  Common requirement is 36".  There's a lot more to it than you might think.  Here is a helpful guide that will get you going as far as the list of requirements beyond just width.

   http://www.stairways.org/pdf/2003%20Stair%20IRC%20SCREEN.pdf

   Ideally, talk to your local building inspector. 

    

   Seeking perfection in an imperfect world is a fool's errand.  Making something look perfect is a whole 'nother story . . . .

3. 
   FastEddie | Mar 05, 2006 11:12pm | #3

   Give some thought to getting the mattress and dresser up there, especially if there is a turn in the stair.

    

    

   "When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it."  T. Roosevelt

1. 
   DougU | Mar 06, 2006 12:10am | #4

   the mattress is usually not the problem!

1. 
   Matt | Mar 06, 2006 01:06am | #5

   Queen sized boxspring... those are often trouble.