Zigzag plate steel stringer
At Arden, we believe that the zigzag steel stringer design is the basis for some of the strongest architectural statements that can be made with a feature staircase.
Design
At Arden, we believe that the zigzag steel stringer design is the basis for some of the strongest architectural statements that can be made with a feature staircase. This is because its visual impact is related to the essential functional property of a staircase, i.e. achieving an elevation through a sequence of horizontal and vertical steps. The steps therefore create a tension between these steps and the underlying diagonal slope line. Thus, design interest is created from the natural functional properties of the staircase element.
The Z1 structure is constructed from laser cut stainless or plate steel. The style may lend itself to either a lighter gauge open construction (typically in stainless), or a heavier style closed construction (typically ex. steel plate). In the included photos, examples are shown of each form. It should be noted that when lighter gauge stringers are selected in order to satisfy design requirements, consideration must be given to method and location of support that is provided to the stringer.
The Z1 zigzag stringer looks particularly good when contrasted with tread and riser assembly that also emphasises the stepped pattern. The stepped effect can be maximised when a stepped soffit is added that mirrors the stepped pattern of the treads, thus fully realising the zigzag concept.
Technical
The width or depth of the stringer will vary according to span, width, and performance expectations. Narrower stringer widths will require further support by way of hangers or support columns which can be integrated into the support system.
Compliance
Arden Architectural is a BSA licensed contractor for carpentry, joinery, glass, glazing and aluminium as well as structural metal fabrication and erection. Arden supplies a Form 16 (Licensed Contractor) on all projects. In design and construct contracts, a Form 15 (Design Engineer) certification is supplied upon request. For products and services incorporating this design element, the table below details compliance with relevant codes and standards.
Code
|
Title |
Applicability |
| BCA |
The Building Code of Australia |
Full compliance
|
| AS NZS 1170.1-2002 |
Structural Design Actions – Permanent, imposed and other actions |
Full compliance
|
| AS 1288-2006 |
Glass in Buildings. Selection and installation |
Not applicable
|
| AS NZS 1554.1-2004 |
Structural steel welding - Welding of steel structures |
Full compliance
|
| AS 1554.6-1994 |
Welding stainless steels for structural purposes |
Full compliance
|
| AS NZS 4586-2004 |
Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials |
Full compliance
|
| AS 1428.1-2001 |
Design for access and mobility |
Conditional *
|
| AS 1657-1992 |
Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders. Design,
construction and installation |
Full compliance |