What is code for stair spindle spacing?

US building codes require that the space between balusters be no more than four inches—assuring that small children can’t slip through or get stuck between them. They must also be able to resist up to 50 pounds of pressure exerted over a 1-square foot area.

How far apart should spindles be UK?

In the UK, the regulations state that you cannot have a spacing of more than 100mm (horizontally) between spindles at their widest point, because a child could fall through or even get their head through and strangle themselves.

How do you calculate spindle spacing?

Luckily, there is a simple solution to this puzzle.

Measure the width of the gap between the inner surfaces of the two support posts.
Measure the width of a single spindle.
Add the two figures together.
Count the number of spindles to be used and add one.
Divide the sum of the width by the sum of the number of spindles.

What is the maximum gap between spindles?

U.S. building codes mandate that balusters have no more than a 4-inch gap between them. This relatively tight amount of spacing still allows for visibility between spindles, but also stands as a safety measure to prevent small children from becoming stuck between spindles or from slipping through the balusters.

What is the safe distance between banister railings?

Railings and balusters should be less than four inches apart, according to present code. There also should not be gaps larger than four inches between the floor and a railing. However, railings in older homes might be significantly farther apart. Ideally, these railings should be replaced.

What is the legal gap between spindles?

The building regulations state that a 100mm sphere cannot pass through any opening and this includes between spindles. So your maximum space between spindles is 99mm.

What is the minimum gap between spindles?

For landing spaces, try & stick with an 80mm gap between spindles – so you will need to measure the landing space then work out the rest, whilst considering the width of your spindles too.

What is the gap between spindles?

How many spindles should a staircase have?

There are a couple of different sizes of spindle but as a general rule approximately two spindles are needed for every stair tread to meet the regulations and also to look in proportion.

How wide should balusters be?

It all depends on making sure you don’t have any gaps greater than 4 inches!) General Baluster Spacing – The general rule of thumb is to have 3 baluster per foot so you do not have any gaps greater than four inches. If you put one baluster every 4 inches on center, then you will typically always be fine.

What is code for railing spindles?

In order to comply with building regulations and codes, balusters must be spaced no more than 4 inches apart on center. The general rule is that your railing must have three balusters per foot (every 12 inches), although you can place them closer together if you’d like.