Open riser stairs and closed riser stairs are the two fundamental staircase designs you will encounter when planning a new staircase. Each has distinct visual characteristics, practical implications, and cost considerations. Understanding the difference helps you make the right choice for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.
What Are Open Riser Stairs?
Open riser stairs have visible space between each tread. There is no vertical backing panel (called a riser) closing the gap between steps. This creates a light, airy appearance that works particularly well in modern and contemporary interiors. Natural light passes through the staircase, making the surrounding space feel more open and connected.
Benefits of Open Riser Stairs
- Modern, minimal aesthetic that suits contemporary and transitional homes
- Allows light to pass through the staircase
- Makes open-concept spaces feel more connected and spacious
- Shows off quality tread materials from every angle
- Generally easier to keep clean beneath the staircase
Considerations for Open Riser Stairs
- May not meet code requirements for young children without additional safety features
- Less suitable for very traditional or heritage-style interiors
- Requires high-quality tread material since both the top and underside are visible
What Are Closed Riser Stairs?
Closed riser stairs have a vertical panel between each tread that closes the gap between steps. This is the traditional staircase configuration seen in most older homes. Closed risers create a more solid, enclosed appearance and are generally considered safer for households with young children or pets.
Benefits of Closed Riser Stairs
- Traditional appearance that suits classic or heritage-style homes
- Safer for young children and small pets as there are no open gaps
- Can conceal underside of staircase more easily
- Often slightly simpler to build in standard configurations
Considerations for Closed Riser Stairs
- Can feel heavier and more enclosed, which may not suit open-concept layouts
- Less natural light passes through the staircase
- May feel dated in modern interior settings
Design and Material Considerations
Treads for Open Riser Stairs
Because the underside of each tread is visible in an open riser design, material quality and finishing standards are higher. We typically use solid hardwood throughout and finish the underside carefully to ensure a clean, consistent appearance from all viewing angles.
Treads for Closed Riser Stairs
Closed riser designs allow for more flexibility in material choice since the underside is not visible. However, quality hardwood treads are still recommended for durability and appearance.
Which Style Is Right for Your Ontario Home?
The right choice depends on your home style, your household, and the feel you want to create. Open riser stairs suit modern and contemporary homes where you want a light, connected feel. Closed riser stairs suit traditional homes or households with young children where safety and a classic look are priorities. Many of our Ontario clients choose open riser designs when renovating to create a more modern aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are open riser stairs safe?
Open riser stairs are safe for most households. Ontario Building Code specifies maximum gap dimensions between treads to prevent accidents. For households with young children, a closed riser design or additional safety measures may be preferred.
Are open riser stairs more expensive than closed riser?
Open riser stairs often require higher quality tread finishing since both surfaces are visible. Overall cost depends on materials and design complexity rather than simply the riser style.
Can I convert closed riser stairs to open riser?
In some cases, yes. The feasibility depends on how your existing staircase is structurally built. Contact us for an assessment of your specific situation.
Talk to Our Staircase Experts
Not sure which style is right for your home? The team at C.O.R.S Staircases can help you explore both options and find the design that suits your space, style, and budget. Get in touch for a free consultation.