Stair-Rail Code Oddity: A Peculiar Volute
An example of a strange stair rail modification required by a local inspector. March 3, 2009
Question
Here are before and after pictures of a stair I remodeled a while back. The Building Department asked an "expert" how to make the handrail above the starting tread legal. This is what they came up with. The starting newel/post is red oak and fitted around the rail so it could be removed later. However the inspector said they would be back later to be sure it remained.
** NEEDS IMAGE WORK **
http://www.woodweb.com/images_forums_public/aw/Jakob1.jpg
** NEEDS IMAGE WORK **
** NEEDS IMAGE WORK **
http://www.woodweb.com/images_forums_public/aw/Jakob_0011.jpg
** NEEDS IMAGE WORK **
** NEEDS IMAGE WORK **
http://www.woodweb.com/images_forums_public/aw/Jakob_0021.jpg
** NEEDS IMAGE WORK **
Forum Responses
(Architectural Woodworking Forum)
From contributor J:
So, what part of the code were they trying to comply with?
From contributor R:
What is the purpose of that square post shown in the images on the right side.
From contributor H:
What? There is no code height for the turnout/volute? Rail height at the riser line or front of the step is code requirement. Once you have that the volute/turnout height is pre determined for you.
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KnowledgeBase: Architectural Millwork: Stairs

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