. . . the RIGHT steps
Granting the need for steps, the next question to be asked is, what
kind of steps? How many, and where shall they be placed?
The shortest distance between two points is a straight line, but when
we build steps we may find that this is not the safest way, the most comfortable, or the most satisfying in design. Steep runs of steps are frequently dangerous. They are always less comfortable to ascend and are
perilous to come down. There are certain primary proportions between
the width of the tread (that part on which you walk) and the riser
(the height of the front part of the step). Let us look for a moment at
the chart shown on these pages. This will give you the best proportions
to use in planning your steps, assuring you of a good, easy climb
whether the slope is a long gradual one or shorter and steeper.
RECOMMENDED DIMENSIONS FOR GARDEN STEPS
Minimum width of steps for one person is
2' 6" but 3' 6" is better, allowing for carrying
things or on a long flight of enclosed steps
allowing use of a handrail placed on wall.
Minimum step width for two persons is 4' 6"
but 5' 0" is better, particularly on stairways
enclosed on both sides. More than four steps
may require handrail; fewer usually don't
There have been tests made which show that broad treads and high
risers are just as tiring and frequently as hazardous to use as the com-
monly-acknowledged dangerous combination of high risers and narrow
treads. In general we might say the rule is that the closer to a ladder
steps become, the more effort must be put forth in climbing them, and
that the closer they come to the level or like a ramp, the less effort will
be expended in negotiating the slope.
But the width of steps is important, too, though the "elbow room"
factor is often ignored in building steps. Where they must pierce a re-
taining wall or be built beside a wall, thus necessitating a bannister, the
width from side to side becomes important. We have prepared a chart
which shows the minimum widths for steps to permit the passage of
one and two persons, and you can judge proportions for wider sets
of steps.
Don't forget that garden steps must be at least as wide as stairs in a
house, for gardeners are constantly toting flats of plants and other
garden equipment up and down them. Lawn mowers, garden carts, and
other wheeled equipment must frequently negotiate garden steps in
order to be used on the various levels. Perhaps you might solve this
traffic problem by building ramps of concrete, brick, or stone (which-
ever material faces the steps) alongside the steps for the gardener
himself. Or if expense or lack of space rules this out, wooden ramps built
to fit the steps can be put in place when needed and taken up and stored
in the garage or tool shed in between uses.
|
