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Stair half wall height

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51carpenter

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Discussion starter · #1 ·
So I’ve got some stairwells to finish framing out on a 4plex. One side of the stairs has a wall all the way to the ceiling, on the other side the owner wants a half wall. Handrail height is listed at 34”-38” from what I’ve read. I can’t find anything about the height of the half wall, and the plans don’t call it out.

I am planning to frame it at 39” and it can get capped later with a 1x8 or similar.

Does anybody know what the code is for this?

Thanks


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#5 ·
Section R312.1.2 (IRC 2018) will answer your question. Guard on open side of stairs-not less than 34". Where top of guard serves as handrail, then 34"-38". Obviously, you need to meet the code with the handrail if it is on that side.
 
Discussion starter · #10 ·
CarpenterRN said:
Section R312.1.2 (IRC 2018) will answer your question. Guard on open side of stairs-not less than 34". Where top of guard serves as handrail, then 34"-38". Obviously, you need to meet the code with the handrail if it is on that side.
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Thank you it says minimum height 36” for guard along stairs.

I had 42” in my head and I set a top plate at that height and it seemed high. So I’ll stick with 39” and the handrail will be on the opposing wall.


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#11 ·
31.5" from graspable single rail to wall, and I think down to 27.5" (or maybe its 28.5") with two graspable hand rails.

As was mentioned, zoning will dictate the half wall height.

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Discussion starter · #13 ·
CarpenterRN said:
R312.1.2 Height "exceptions" 1 & 2 is where you need to look. That discusses open sides of stairs. The verbiage above the exceptions in R312.1.2 is for walking surfaces.
Click to expand...
Just reread it, minimum 34”, 34”-38” if it serves as a handrail.


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#15 · (Edited)
It's my understanding that it has to be between 34 and 38. There's no exception in the code.

R311.5.6.1 Height. Handrail height, measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm).
R311.5.6.2 Continuity. Handrails for stairways shall be continuous for the full length of the flight, from a point directly above the top riser of the flight to a point directly above lowest riser of the flight. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space not less than 1-1/2 inch (38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

Always remember if you can't find it in the code more than likely the inspector can't either.

Mike.
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