Stairs string
A stair string, stringer, or stringer board, is the panel on either side of a flight of stairs to which the treads and risers are fixed.
The string is described as ‘closed’ if it conceals the profile of the treads and risers. It is described as ‘open’ or ‘cut’, if its upper edge is cut away so that the profile of the treads and risers is visible from the site.
A 'routed string' has slots cut into it, into which the treads and risers can be fixed.
A string that is fixed to the wall is described as the 'wall string'.
The perpendicular distance between the pitch of the stairs and the top of the string, is described as the 'string margin'.
Wheelchair platform stairlifts travel along the stair string, allowing wheelchair users to travel up and down stairs while remaining seated in their wheelchair.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.