STAIRS, BALUSTRADES & BALCONIES 47
STEP UP YOUR DEVELOPMENT
Nick Rackham of Complete Stair Systems explains why housebuilders and developers need to consider investing in custom-made staircases, and how they can do so on a budget.
staircase is generally the first feature on view when entering a property, creating the opportunity for a wonderful first impression. Having a specially designed staircase in the hallway can further increase this effect, while enhancing the style of the property. While choosing the right stair is an important decision for any housebuilder, margins are often strict, so it’s vital to understand how bespoke a staircase your budget will stretch to.
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A closed softwood flight with carpeted treads and risers might be the most economical choice, but would it give the right impression? There are a few key elements that affect the price of a more custom-made flight with open risers.
SHAPE & FORM
The simpler the shape of the staircase, the cheaper the cost of the flight. A straight flight staircase is therefore the cheapest to produce, followed by a quarter turn (90 degrees) and a half turn (180 degrees).
Spiral staircases (steps arranged around a central pillar) can be fairly cost-effective, depending on the materials used. The most expensive option is to add curves to the staircase, whether in a complete curve (helical shaped), or just a swooping entrance. While a curved stair can look stunning, it will definitely come at a significant cost.
SUPPORTING STRUCTURE
Above and beyond the conventional double timber stringer construction, there are many other ways the steps of the staircase can be supported. Steel is very popular, as a smaller structure can support a greater weight and therefore appear less bulky than timber. Steel stringers can be cut to a certain shape, or can be located under the centre of the stair to form a spine.
TREADS AND BALUSTRADES Hardwood treads are generally the choice for most custom-made staircases, but glass, granite and stone are popular.
Conventional timber spindles tend to be the standard choice of balustrade on a basic softwood stair. For a more modern, open and light feel however, a custom-made flight is likely to have a glass balustrade, stainless steel spindles or rails. Glass is extremely popular and is generally held in place between timber or steel newel posts, or bolted to the edge of the stringers or treads to give a frameless ‘no newel’ appearance.
Horizontal rails are attractive and a little less costly than glass, but check your building inspector is happy with them before purchasing. They can be viewed as forming a ‘ladder’ in effect, and are therefore climbable.
Spindles are available on more custom-made staircases and are often constructed in steel or stainless steel. They are also generally thinner in profile than their traditional timber counterparts. The cost of spindles will likely be less than glass, depending on their finish.
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