48 STAIRS, BALUSTRADES & BALCONIES
EXTRA CONSIDERATIONS
Many custom-made modern staircases have open risers to allow light to pass through. Building Regulations stipulate that the gap between each step cannot exceed 100 mm for safety reasons. All specialist companies will be aware of the regulations and will have solutions to reduce the gap, but if they have many methods to do this they might not include the cost in the quote. Instead, they might list and cost the options separately, so check the quotation carefully. Another item to consider that can add considerably to the costs is the requirement of any landing balustrade. This is to protect around voids over the stairwell, and is generally protected with balustrade matching the staircase. A company is likely to price this per metre, so be sure to work out how many metres you need and calculate accordingly.
Installation is another cost to be factored into the staircase budget. Most companies will offer a cost for supply only and/or supply and install, giving you the option of self-assembly. Given that many of the custom-made staircases are straightforward
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to fit, it might well be a more economical option to install yourself, but make sure you get a price if not. Any install price a company provides will most likely be a little inflated when including travel and accommodation (if applicable).
SUMMING UP To keep your new staircase within a respectable budget, the best advice is to keep the design simple. The most economical option would be a traditional straight flight formed with softwood treads and stringers and ply risers. This style however is unlikely to provide the same impact as a custom-made design. If you are looking for something a little more striking and modern, in keeping with your new build, it’s advisable to gather some inspiration from the internet and trade shows. It is important to prioritise the list of the elements and materials you would really like to have (for example oak treads, glass balustrade), and be prepared that you might have to make sacrifices to meet your budget. For example, opting for stained beech rather than walnut steps, or
perhaps having a stud wall at first floor level instead of matching glass balustrade. If you can, influence the design at an early stage. Try to specify a straight flight configuration, or at least stay away from curves. Your architect should be able to give you an indication of costs at this stage, before you filter down your selection and contact some specialist companies for a precise quotation.
When getting quotations, ensure they are for a ‘like for like’ product and check if the price includes fitting or is supply only. It can also be helpful to check if it is possible to see the product in a property or a showroom to satisfy yourself with the quality before proceeding. There are more specialist staircase companies operating in the UK than ever before, each with some wonderful designs. Enjoy gathering inspiration, but remember, the more ambitious the design and shape and the more unusual the materials, the more the price of the stair is likely to soar.
Nick Rackham is managing director of Complete Stair Systems
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