Standard Sizes of the Steps for a Front Porch

Width

• The minimum width for porch steps is 36 inches, but 48 to 60 inches is even better. Porch steps 48 inches wide accommodate one person easily and safely; wider porch steps allow two or more persons to comfortably navigate the staircase.

Stair Size

• Treads, which are the portion of the steps that you walk on, are typically no smaller than 10 inches deep. This ensures a large enough space to safely walk on as you navigate each step. The risers, which are the portion that sits vertically underneath each step, should be no larger than 7 3/4 inches and no smaller than 4 inches. This height creates a step that is neither too high, nor to short, but that accommodates most people's natural gait.

Code

• Before building porch steps, check with your local building commission. Building codes strictly enforce the measurements of porch and deck steps. Your porch steps may fail to pass building inspections if you don't follow the local code.

Considerations

• How large and wide your porch steps will be will be partially determined by how much space you have. If you have limited space for the porch steps, you can build a slightly steeper set of steps, but the run from the top of the steps to the ground should be no more than 30 to 35 percent. Install handrails, lighting and non-slip threads for safety on porch steps, especially if your porch faces north and accumulates snow and ice in the winter.