When buying bleachers, it
helps to understand some of the more common phrases. Below is a list of commonly used
terms and phrases used in bleacher specifications.
'Single Foot Plank' or 'Single Foot Board'
Term used
to describe (1) 2"x10" mill finish aluminum foot plank per row to rest your feet on when
seated. You'll normally find single foot planks on smaller sets of bleachers, or Tip 'N Roll models.
Consumers choose a single footboard to either save weight on transportable bleachers, save money or space.
'Double Foot Plank' or 'Double Foot Board'
Term used
to describe (2) 2"x10" mill finish aluminum foot planks per row to rest your feet on when
seated. You'll find double footboards on larger sets of bleachers and especially on permanent
grandstands. Consumers choose double footboards to make their bleachers more comfortable, safer and
easier to walk on.
'Mill Finish'
Term used
to describe the natural, untreated surface of aluminum planks after extrusion. The main advantage is
cost-effectiveness, as no finishing processes are applied, and protective oxidation forms naturally.
'Guardrail'
Term used
to describe the protective barrier consisting of a railing with choice of either chain-link or vertical picket fencing.
Commonly, local code compliance requires bleachers more than 30" above grade must have a 42" guardrail and
must not allow a round object more than four inches to be able to protrude.
'End Cap'
Term used
to describe the cap installed at the end of the plank to prevent any cuts or tears.
'Riser Plank'
Term used
to describe a "mill finish" aluminum plank that is mounted vertically under the seat and
behind your feet to close the opening to meet building and safety codes.
'Rise'
Term used
to describe the vertical measure from the top of a bleacher seat to the top of the bleacher seat in the next row.
'Run'
Term used
to describe the horizontal measure from the front of a bleacher seat to the front of the bleacher seat in
the next row. The run will change if you choose single- or double-foot planks.
'Decking'
Term used
to describe open space between the bottom of the seat planks and the top part of the foot planks.
'Aisle(s)'
Term used
to describe the passage between seats to provide access up and down the bleachers. Most aisles require
handrails and nosing unless certain conditions are met.
'Handrail(s)'
Term used
to describe a securely attached railing for spectators to utilize for assistance when climbing up and
down the steps of an aisle.