From traditional wood to Contemporary glass, a well-designed staircase isn't just functional; it can help elevate your home's look and feel. Put some style in your steps with these staircase renovation tips.
Moving a staircase
Moving a staircase can be a massive undertaking but it can do wonders for improving the flow of your home. Between the house's structure and your desired staircase style, there are many variables to think about, including whether you need additional support and how the materials will work together (wood, concrete, metal or glass, to name a few). You may need a team of designers, engineers and/or architects to make sure your staircase fits your floor plan and meets building regulations.
Building codes
There are particular building codes associated with stairs, including permitted incline angle, handrail regulations, stairway headroom and the height and width of the rise. The National Building Code of Canada suggests stair treads need to be a minimum of 21 centimetres (or 8 1/4 inches) wide, but if safety is a concern, consider increasing the width to up to 25 centimetres (10 inches). Ultimately, it's up to local municipalities to enforce specific codes.
Styles
A staircase that runs straight from one floor to the next is the easiest and most common to build but it can also take up the most room in a home. If you have very tall ceilings, a builder might create a stop at a landing that turns 90 or 180 degrees to make it easier to climb. Finally, a space-saving spiral staircase is easy to install and very affordable but it can be difficult to climb and unsafe for children or people with mobility concerns.
Handrails and balustrades
Most stairs must have at least one continual handrail between 86.5 centimetres and 96.5 centimetres (34 and 42 inches, respectively) tall. They're also a great way to add aesthetic flare to your staircase.
A well-designed handrail and balustrade (the planks or poles that combine to support the handrail) are essential elements for a staircase and can serve as beautiful focal points. Materials can be limited to or a combination of wrought iron, glass, steel and wood.
Iron
Wrought iron can be easily curved and can give your staircase an elegant, old-world feel. Used both outside and inside because of its durability, an iron balustrade can be stylized in any number of artistic designs.
Glass
Sheets of glass that function as a modern balustrade offer an uncluttered look that will give your space an open, airy feel. However, they can be more cumbersome to keep clean from dust and fingerprints.
Steel
If you love Industrial design, a steel handrail and balustrade – with its clean lines and no-fuss aesthetic – are just the ticket.
Stair runners
Typically installed over tile or hardwood stairs, stair runners are a piece of carpet that covers a portion of a stair. They come in all colours and patterns and can be matched to your home's décor. Carpeted stairs are safer and quieter – they reduce the chances of slipping and help absorb the sound of footsteps – so they're a good idea if you have little ones running around.
Easy DIY upgrades
From decals and paint to runners and other accessories, there are a number of ways you can jazz up your stairs without having to undergo an expensive renovation.
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