Vertical riser
A vertical riser is any component that extends vertically through a building, including for example stairs and lifts, but the term is most commonly used to refer to ductwork, pipes, conduits and cables.
Vertical ducts should be carefully positioned in order to try and keep pipe and cable run lengths to a minimum, and also, in the case of pipework, to avoid unnecessary bends.
Since vertical risers generally breach floors, they can present a hazard in terms of enabling the spread of fire and so must be appropriately fire protected.
Other types of vertical riser include:
- Dry riser: Used to supply water within buildings for fire-fighting purposes. Dry risers do not contain water when they are not being used but are charged with water by fire service pumping appliances when necessary. For more information see: Dry riser.
- Wet riser: Used to supply water within buildings for fire-fighting purposes. Wet risers are permanently charged with water. For more information see: Wet riser.
NB The term ‘riser’ can also be used in relation to the components of stairs. A stair riser is the vertical face between the back of the tread of one stair and the front of the tread of the stair above. For more information, see Stairs riser.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The BPF urges Chancellor for additional BSR resources
To remove barriers and bottlenecks which delay projects.
Flexibility over requirements to boost apprentice numbers
English, maths and minimumun duration requirements reduced for a 10,000 gain.
A long term view on European heating markets
BSRIA HVAC 2032 Study.
Humidity resilience strategies for home design
Frequency of extreme humidity events is increasing.
National Apprenticeship Week 2025
Skills for life : 10-16 February
Update on the future of Grenfell Tower
Deputy Prime Minister decides for it be carefully taken down to the ground.
Ending decades of frustration, misinformation and distrust.
Essential tools in managing historically significant landscapes.
Classroom electrician courses a 'waste of money'
Say experts from the Electrical Contractors’ Association.
Wellbeing in Buildings TG 10/2025
BSRIA topic guide updates.
With brief background and WELL v2™.
From studies, to books to a new project, with founder Emma Walshaw.
Types of drawings for building design
Still one of the most popular articles the A-Z of drawings.
Who, or What Does the Building Safety Act Apply To?
From compliance to competence in brief.
The remarkable story of a Highland architect.
Commissioning Responsibilities Framework BG 88/2025
BSRIA guidance on establishing clear roles and responsibilities for commissioning tasks.
An architectural movement to love or hate.