Stairs
Stairs
Stairs (/steərz/), also known as a staircase, stairway, or flight of stairs, is a construction designed to bridge a large vertical distance by dividing it into smaller vertical distances, called steps.
Etymology
The word "stairs" comes from the Old English 'stæger', which means 'to climb'. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*stigaz'.
Definition
Stairs are a series of steps, each of which provides a footing surface, leading from one floor or level to another in a building or onto a structure. Stairs may be straight, round, or may consist of two or more straight pieces connected at angles.
Components
Stairs are made up of several key components. These include:
- Tread: The part of the stair that is stepped on. It is constructed to the same specifications (thickness) as any other flooring.
- Riser: The vertical portion between each tread on the stair. This may be missing for an "open" stair effect.
- Nosing: An edge part of the tread that protrudes over the riser beneath.
- Handrail: A rail that is designed to be grasped by the hand so as to provide stability or support.
Related Terms
- Staircase: A set of stairs and its surrounding walls or structure.
- Stairwell: A shaft or opening that houses a staircase.
- Landing: An area of floor at the top of or between flights of stairs for changing direction and usually includes part of the floor area.
- Balustrade: A railing supported by balusters, especially an ornamental parapet on a balcony, bridge, or terrace.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stairs
- Wikipedia's article - Stairs
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