Laying out Winder Stairs
An alternative solution for when there isn't enough headroom for a standard landing.
Here’s an easy, accurate way to lay out stairs that have wedge-shaped treads where the stair makes a 90° turn. This type of stair is called a winder, and it can bail you out of a situation where there isn’t enough headroom for a standard landing.
As shown in the drawing, use a compass to strike a radius from point E. The length of the radius isn’t critical — it just needs to come down in the approximate point shown on the drawing. This arc determines points A and B. Now, using the same radius, swing an arc from point A to find point C, and from point B to find point D. Next, extend lines from point E through C and D to find the position of the risers for the treads.
By the way, local codes have different interpretations of how wide the treads need to be at a given distance from point E. Be sure to check with your inspector to find out what the requirements are.
—Kelly Johnston, Overland Park, KS
Edited and illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #117
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Local codes and the International Codes also state what the minimum width of the tread has to be AT Point E. Typically 6". And don't put the handrail on Point E's side of the stairs. Build safe.