Stair Shapes

Available space is key in determining a stair's shape. Straight stairs are the easiest and most affordable type to build. But because stairs with a landing-L-shaped or U-shaped stairs-are safer and easier to climb, they're often preferred where space allows. Circular stairs take the least space but are also the hardest to climb; in fact, rooms served by a circular stair often also have a primary stair for easier access with furniture and the like.

A straight stair stretches from lower to upper level in one straight run. Though this is the easiest type of stair to build, it can be difficult to squeeze into a floorplan.

A return stair divides the run, reversing direction a full 180 degrees at a landing.

A circular stair generally sweeps in a broad curve from one level to another.

An "L" stair makes a 90-degree turn at a landing. A winder serves like an "L" stair, but requires less space (and is less safe to use) because the landing is divided into pie-shaped steps.

A spiral stair twists around a center pole in one of two ways. The common spiral stair has a straight center pole with steps radiating out from it; a helix-style spiral has a curving center support that follows the sweeping twist of the stair.

MORE ABOUT:
/ Stairs / / Wood floors / / Carpeting / / Carpet cuts & loops /

BACK TO:
Interior Surfaces Main Page > How Your House Works Main Page > RemodelGuide HOME PAGE