Floating staircases represent the pinnacle of modern architectural statement design. By eliminating solid risers and bulky stringers, floating stairs allow natural light to flow unobstructed across two-story living spaces, creating an illusion of weightless suspension.
However, floating staircases require advanced structural engineering to eliminate bounce, maintain seismic compliance, and satisfy California Building Code open-riser rules.
Floating Staircase Engineering Types
- Center Steel Monostringer: A heavy-gauge steel spine positioned down the centerline with welded steel tread support plates. Provides exceptional rigidity and straightforward installation.
- Double Side Stringers: Twin steel plates or timber beams running along the tread edges.
- Cantilevered Wall-Embedded: Treads anchored directly into a concealed steel tube-frame embedded inside a reinforced structural wall.
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Over 45 years of custom staircase design and California Building Code authority. Call directly with your dimensions for an accurate price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are open-riser floating staircases code compliant in California? +
Yes. CBC Section 1011.5.5 permits open risers provided that a 4-inch diameter sphere cannot pass between the treads. This is achieved by fabricating thick 3.5"-4" solid wood treads or installing subtle transparent safety baffles.
Allen
Master Staircase Builder • Building bespoke glass railings, cable balustrades, and luxury hardwood staircases in Southern California since 1980.
