How To Figure And Calculate Stair Width

In order to figure and calculate the stair width, all you need to do is measure the distance that represents the width of the stairway.



The distance between the black arrows represents the width of the stairway. The distance between the arrows for this particular stairway is 36 inches and 36 inches will usually be the minimum width of a stairway, required by most building departments.



Smaller stairway widths can create problems for larger people and would definitely create a problem for someone trying to walk up the stairway, while another was trying to walk down.

Keep in mind, stairways that are wider than 72 inches, might require additional hand railing, for safety. Check with your local building and safety department, for more information.


Back To How To Do It Yourself