How to Build Stairs: A brief

Discussing the complete method (or are there many?) of building stairs is clearly beyond the scope of this article. However, let’s try and discuss in brief the essential aspects of the process.

Every plan to build a new set of stairs starts with a careful consideration of the best site. Of course, if you are just remodeling or reinstalling your stairs, you can ignore this step and move on to the next one, choosing a good stair design. Ask yourself, what is a good stair design? Aesthetics are important, no doubt. After all, most stair remodeling jobs originate from the urge to have a better-looking and more stylish staircase. However, beauty is just one of the aspects of a good stair design. The other factor is safety. Let’s face it, a staircase should be strong, sturdy and safe to use. This is all the more true if you have kids and older people living in the house.

So how does one ensure safety? Well, one may start by selecting only good quality components to build the stairs. The choice of material is important. Wooden stairs are generally considered a little safer than say, a marble staircase. However, it is important that you keep provisions for all the usual problems associated with your material of choice. If you are planning to have wooden stairs, remember, wood may expand over time and in some extreme cases, may even warp and crack.

The depth and height of the treads, the grip on the handrails, the spaces between the balusters are jus a few of the other things you need to consider carefully. Don’t let your aesthetic needs take away from the safety of your stairs. It’s also true the other way round. I’m not suggesting that you make an iron staircase. The trick is to strike a balance between the two.

Last but not the least, get professional help. Don’t try installing all by yourself if you are new to this kind of work. Get a reputed stair builder to design your staircase. It would ensure fewer hassles for you as well as faster construction process.