Maximum riser height of pool steps

[eljefe281]

What is the maximum riser height of a pool step that you would suggest?

"Riser height" is the vertical distance from one step to the next.

I believe in-house stairs are generally on the order of 7-1/2" or so, but, if I'm not mistaken, pool steps typically have a greater drop to them.

Is 12" too much? How about 10"?

No one with a physical disability is going to use the pool very often, if that makes a difference.

Thanks ever so much.

[imfignewton]

I would just add another step to the pool. Say four steps instead of the standard three steps. It is easier for kids and adults.

[eljefe281]

The reason I ask is that I am hoping to keep the entirety of my steps recessed - that is, out of the "main rectangle" of the pool.

Unfortunately, I am getting kind of short on space.

I figure that I have to drop 48" from deck level to bottom of pool level (42" water depth plus 6" from waterline to deck level).

I can do that in 40" of horizontal space if I use four (4) steps, each with a 10" riser height and a 10" tread length.

I just can't tell if a 10" drop per step is too much.

I may just have to build some "test" steps.

[LBD]

Our new gunite pool has 10" X 10" steps into the pool off the tanning ledge. Perfect for the pool design and fine for the family. I read somewhere up to 12" is ok for step height.

[mshumack]

I did three steps in my 36 inch deep shallow end- first step is 10 inches (of which 8 inches is under water), second step is 12 inches (also my tanning shelf), and third step (bottom) step is 14 inches. It looks better, in my opinion, with less steps and as the water gets deeper the taller steps are less noticible because you have more boyancy in the deeper water. I can't even tell the difference in height when going from one to the other.

[eljefe281]

Thanks for the feedback. Very good stuff.

[Chardonnay]

10" is very standard for riser heights. I'd go 14" on treads if you have the space. Gives your foot a bit more space to "land".

[huskyrider]

What is the maximum riser height of a pool step that you would suggest?

12 inches of rise and 14 inches of tread.

See ya,
Kelly