Stairs Advice

Importance of Planning

In practical terms the lower the angle of your stairs the easier it will be to walk. Where possible you should aim for a low rise (height of each step) and deep going (depth of each step), we recommend approx 180 mm rise, 250 mm going and 'walk space' (width of the stairs from handrail to wall) of approx 950 mm.

Whether your stairs is going into a new build or a renovation project certain stairs need more space or particular types of support e.g. curved stairs take up a lot of space and should be included in original plans, cantilever stairs may require a wide stairwell to accommodate extra support to the wall side. We are happy to advise and encourage early consultation with us on your stairs questions.

Under floor heating systems & stairs:

Staircase and gallery railings need to be anchored securely, to do this they are generally fixed to the ground floor and to the edge of first floor level. We advise all our clients that if you intend to use under-floor heating systems that they may need to be kept back from the edges on the first floor and a void in the system may be required under the initial step of the stairs. It should make little difference to your heating system but not making provision could limit your options when choosing your stairs.

Anchoring a Stairs Adequately

All staircase and gallery railings need to be secured adequately to solid grounds. Again we are happy to advise what is required on an individual project but as a rule of thumb generally stairs will require a concrete subfloor to fix to on the bottom and either a concrete or double 9" x 2" joist to connect to on first floor level. Making provision for these fixings during your build is a minor cost (if any) and will open you options when you choose your stairs. Signature stairs can be used in timber frame constructed homes but we advise consultation prior to staircase manufacture.

Stairs Shapes

Stairs Structures

The predominately metal fabricated Signature stairs structures enable the staircase to have features not easily achieved through traditional type construction. As you can see from below, the main supports for the stairs can come from the sides or in the middle. In many cases the key to the stairs feature is the fact that these supports are concealed within your build - as is the case with the Cantilever staircase range. Early consultation on your project will ensure that you can make whatever provisions are required, ensuring the best possible finish is obtained.

Other Staircase Considerations

Signature Stairs offer a range of stainless steel and glass staircase options as well as frameless glass balustrades and gallery railings. In keeping with the standards of our stairs these need to be fixed appropriately. The details of 'face' fixing and 'side' fixing are illustrated above.

Illuminating Your Stairs:

Signature stairs and balustrades are designed to not only offer a sense of luxury and space in a home but also harness and maximise the effects of natural light during the day. Making provision for wall lighting or directional lights can ensure the glass balustrades and open steps project a completely different but equally impressive feature at night.

Cleaning & Maintaining your Signature Stairs:

Signature Stairs are fabricated to last and use solid timbers and high brushed finished stainless steel. With just a little effort your stairs will maintain its beautiful finish for generations. Our steps should only be cleaned with a damp cloth and dried immediately after (never use polishing products on steps). For glass choose a recognised glass cleaning brand and follow manufacturer's instruction on cleaning.

Staircase Handrails:

Signature Stairs UK offer a range of handrails from round or rectangular stainless options to rebated solid timber which are generally round or square. (see our online showroom for examples).