North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What are the maximum and minimum rise heights required for stairs?

1. 30 inches max, 24 inches min

2. 60 inches max, no minimum

3. 8 inches max, 4 inches min

4. 12 inches max, 5 inches min

The correct answer is: 8 inches max, 4 inches min

The requirements for stair rise heights are crucial for ensuring safety and accessibility. The correct answer, which specifies a maximum rise of 8 inches and a minimum rise of 4 inches, aligns with building codes that aim for stair dimensions conducive to safe navigation. The maximum rise of 8 inches helps to prevent stair-related accidents by ensuring that the steps are not overly steep, which can create challenges for users, particularly children, the elderly, or those with mobility issues. A maximum rise height of 8 inches is common in many building codes, including the International Building Code, which North Carolina may reference or adopt, ensuring uniformity that promotes safety. On the other hand, the minimum rise height of 4 inches ensures that steps are not so low that they create a tripping hazard. This lower limit prevents the creation of a series of minuscule steps that could confuse or cause instability for users. In summary, this range of rise heights effectively balances accessibility and safety, adhering to accepted guidelines that facilitate safe and practical stair construction.