Topic Summary
Metal stairs can be fabricated from steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and aluminum. Other metals, such as bronze, can be used provided that the structural load-bearing capacity is determined by a structural engineer. Stair system components are typically standard sizes and shapes that are customized to fit specific project requirements. The components include the landing frame or floor structure, stringers, treads, risers, brackets, railings, and support columns. Steel stair components are usually prime painted in the shop and receive a final paint coating in the field to prevent oxidation.
Stair systems are an integral part of the building exit and entry and must be designed to achieve the proper fire rating based on building size, occupant load, and use group. Building codes also have detailed requirements for stair systems including structural load, width, riser height, and tread depth. Metal stair systems provide an efficient solution for building code compliance with a greater load capacity and fire resistance than wood. The structural capacity, durability, and ease of erection of metal stair systems provide additional advantages.
Three basic types of stair treads available for metal stair systems are pan, floor plate, or grating. Stair treads constructed with metal grating are typically used for utility stairs or where stairs are exposed to moisture. The grating allows liquids to pass through the stair. The texture of the grating also provides traction. Metal pan treads and floor plates are utilized as formwork where poured-in-place concrete is the desired tread material.
