If you’re unsure where to start, planning for a new staircase installation can be a stressful time. With so many options available and so many things to consider, many people feel lost when they first start planning their new staircase. That’s why we’ve created this simple 8 step guide to make planning your next staircase installation a stress-free experience.
The 8 steps to a successful staircase installation are:
- Choosing the right design and style
- Deciding if the staircase needs replacing or repairing
- Choosing the right materials
- Getting the right advice
- Measuring your staircase
- Choosing a budget
- Ensuring it meets regulations
- Shopping for stair parts
Read on to find out more information about the 8 steps to a successful staircase installation and how to complete them.
8 steps to a install a staircase successfully
Staircase installations can be difficult to complete successfully if you aren’t adequately prepared for the process. This is because things like inaccurate measurements can stop the project in its tracks. We’ve created this 8 step guide to ensure that you’re fully prepared for your staircase installation.
1. Choosing the design and style of your new staircase
1. Choosing the design and style of your new staircase
The first step to fitting a staircase is to envisage what you want it to look like and work backwards from there. A good place to start is to look at interior design websites and stair parts manufacturers’ brochures for inspiration.
If you’re having trouble deciding what style is best, consider the age and style of your home. Other things to consider are:
- Is your home design classic or contemporary?
- Do you want the staircase to complement the era of your house or create a striking contrast?
- Do you want the staircase to be a design focal point or is it purely functional?
- Are there any major issues with your existing staircase or are you simply looking to update the style?
If your new staircase is for an extension or a loft conversion and you want it to match your existing stairs and landings, you’ll need to give the existing timber and style details to the manufacturer of your new staircase.
Top tip
When a staircase is delivered it often comes with the newel posts in situ. Consider getting these newel posts in the same wood and design as your staircase so they complement each other.
2. Is fitting a new staircase necessary?
2. Is fitting a new staircase necessary?
Even staircases that have had a lot of wear and tear may not need completely replacing - worn treads, broken or missing spindles or loose bannisters can all be fixed or replaced without incurring the cost of a complete staircase replacement.
Specialist woodturners such as Jackson Woodturners can copy existing designs to match spindles, newel posts, and balustrade bases if you can’t find the exact style you need. This is a particularly good idea if you’re keen to maintain the period features of an older property.
If your staircase is in a good condition but you’re not happy with the design, replacing the balustrade or even just the spindles can give your staircase an instant update at a fraction of the cost and effort.
You can find out more about renovating a rundown staircase in our top tips from woodwork professionals blog.
If you’re not happy with a fundamental aspect of the staircase, it might be best to replace it. Common reasons for replacing an entire staircase include:
- Repositioning the staircase to another part of the house
- Replacing a steep staircase
- Staircase is affected by woodworm or dry rot
- Changing the material e.g. replacing concrete stairs with timber
- Having a new extension to the property, such as a loft conversion
The bonus of replacing or updating a staircase is that it’s a great opportunity to make the most of the space available by converting the cupboard under the stairs or transforming the area with innovative lighting.
3. Choosing the right materials for your staircase installation
The broad range of materials available, from traditional timber to modern glass panels and sleek metal accessories, means there’s something to suit everyone’s budget.
It’s worth doing your research and looking at how different materials look in homes similar to yours. We have some real home staircase transformations on our website to give you some inspiration.
Timber is likely to be the main material used in your staircase so choosing the right wood will be a key decision.
Softwoods
Softwoods tend to be more affordable than hardwoods and are ideal for painting or staining. The drawback is that these will receive more wear and tear in the form of scratches and dents, so those with children or pets may want to consider other options. Examples of softwoods are:
- Hemlock
- Pine
Hardwoods
Hardwoods are strong, durable and offer a luxurious natural finish. While generally the more expensive option, hardwoods will last for years to come while taking minimal wear and tear, and can end up being a cost-effective option long-term. Examples of hardwoods are:
- Ash
- Oak
- Walnut
If you’re not sure which timber is the best choice for your home, read our detailed guide to wooden stair parts. You can find out more about oak stair parts by viewing our oak stair parts FAQs.
4. Getting advice on how to fit a staircase
Renovating or replacing an existing staircase, or putting in a new staircase altogether can be a daunting task. So if you’re unsure it’s always best to get professional advice.
Top tip
Is your staircase closed string or cut string? How will you design your balustrade - with spindles or panels? Some of these terms might seem unfamiliar when you start planning your new staircase so check out our stair parts identification guide for help.
Show your builder or staircase manufacturer the design and style you want to achieve, this way they can cost and manufacture your chosen look and material preferences.
If you need inspiration or have a question about stair parts and live in the Sheffield area, you’re welcome to pop into our showroom to see the different styles and designs on offer. Alternatively, you can take a tour of our showroom online or call us on 0114 272 1228 — we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.
5. Measure your staircase
To help you select the correct quantity and size of the stair parts you’ll need, it’s best to measure what you currently have installed.
Staircases comprise two main parts:
- The steps - these are made up of treads (the part you step on) and rises (the vertical section between the steps)
- The balustrade - this includes the spindles or panels, handrail, base rails and newel posts
Although these two are very distinct parts of a staircase, thinking of them as one ensures the balustrade not only complements the design of the staircase but is measured to fit it correctly too.
Use our how to measure your staircase guide for help. If you need to work out the number of stair spindles your new balustrade will need, our handy spindle spacing calculator makes it simple. You can also find out what kind of configuration your current staircase has using our staircase configuration guide.
6. Choosing a budget for your staircase installation
Renovating an existing staircase will be the least expensive option, and replacing your balustrade provides a quick and easy solution.
If your existing staircase is badly positioned, you may need to move it. This could add to the cost significantly since you’ll probably need to consult an architect or specialist builder for advice.
If you’re just looking to revamp your existing staircase, these three options will keep your costs low:
- Simply swapping wooden square spindles for characterful metal spirals will instantly transform your balustrade from dull to dramatic.
- Save money while maximising the ‘wow’ factor of your staircase by splashing out on a beautiful oak handrail and newel post. Combine these with cost-effective white primed spindles for a smart, contemporary look.
- If you’re going to carpet the stairs, consider having a relatively cheap flight of stairs made as the treads and risers will be covered.
If you’re wondering how to fit a staircase, we have you covered. Get in touch with our team today to discuss your requirements.
7. Ensure your new staircase is safe
It’s essential that your staircase meets safety requirements as stated by the current building regulations. Your staircase will need to meet a number of specific regulations covering measurements - for example, the height of a stair riser should be between 150 mm-220 mm. There is more information on how to fit a staircase for building regulations in our staircase measurements and configurations FAQs.
If elderly people or children are going to use the staircase, this might affect the style you go for, and may result in you replacing a steep staircase that doesn’t meet regulations.
If you’re putting in a staircase as part of a loft conversion, you’ll also need to ensure it complies with fire safety building regulations.
8. Shop for stair parts
If you’ve decided just to update your balustrade rather than fitting a staircase from scratch, shopping for stair parts online is easy. If you’re not sure which components you require, you can always refer to our stair parts identification guide or contact our friendly team for advice.
You may also find our in-depth guides to key stair parts helpful when making your decisions.
Many of our stair parts are available in sets to simplify the purchasing process - for example, ready-to-install handrail kits including connectors and end caps.
If you have any questions at all, we’re always happy to help, so just give us a call on 0114 272 1228 or email [email protected].
Bespoke staircase installations with Jackson Woodturners
At Jackson Woodturners, we know how important it is to create the staircase of your dreams. With our team of stair experts on hand, we can advise and help you plan and design your stairs to make this a reality.
With trade prices available to everyone, we’ll help you build your staircase project efficiently and affordably. Our price promise guarantees that we’ll beat any like-for-like quote.
Get in touch with a member of our team today to discuss your staircase project.
