Stairs are part of the 'means of egress' in a building - a way to get in and out. Traditional stairs in heritage buildings can also be great works of artistry and fine woodworking.

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Characteristics of Stairs:

• Materials will vary for interior and exterior application - wood, stone, metal, concrete and composites.
• The stepping area is the 'tread'; the flat faced piece that defines each step up is called the 'riser'. The pieces supporting treads and risers are called 'stringers'.
• The tread will project past the face of the riser with a rounded edge. This is called the 'nosing'.
• The space where stairs are located in a building is called a stair well. This includes a total run, total rise, the opening in the floor system and the headroom required to accommodate people walking up and down.
• The handrail and vertical pieces (balusters) make up the balustrade. In modern terminology, this may also be called the railing or guardrail.
• Stairs are tied into the structure of the building for strength.