What is the customary unit of rise for each step?

The customary unit of rise for each step in stair construction is commonly set at 7 inches. This is based on guidelines that aim to create stairs that are comfortable and safe for users. A rise of 7 inches strikes a balance between being high enough to ascend efficiently while not being so steep as to be difficult to navigate.

Considering the other options, while 5 inches and 6 inches can be found in some residential applications for convenience, they are less standard than 7 inches in terms of code compliance and ergonomic design. An 8-inch rise, on the other hand, tends to create stairs that are steeper and potentially more difficult to use, particularly for those with mobility issues. Thus, 7 inches remains the most accepted and widely used standard in stair construction.