Contractor Tips Blog

Oct
16

Importance of Step Riser Spacing

Posted in Stairs

The height of the riser, the vertical portion of the back of a step, is critical for meeting building codes and safety. Not only does the spacing need to be within certain measurements, they need to be consistent throughout the staircase. While there are codes and measurements for all staircase components, the step riser is one of the most important when it comes to safety.

Why is Riser Height Important?

The height of a step riser indicates how far feet will move up or down when using the stairs. It is desirable to make the steps easy enough to use for people of different heights and mobility levels. For traditional staircases with closed risers, this is typically no more than 7 ¾ inches. For open risers, this is reduced to close that open space for safety. Typically, open risers should be no more than 4 inches in height.

Conformity for Safety

Not only is it important to keep riser heights within the maximum amounts for your local building codes, conformity is critical. Stair riser heights should be as close to identical for the entire staircase. When riser heights vary even a half inch, safety can be compromised. That small difference can throw off the rhythm of going up or down the stairs, resulting in trips or falls. All stair risers should be within 3/8th of an inch from the lowest to the highest.

Creating safe, durable staircases requires precision and adherence to building and safety codes. When replacing or building a staircase, hire an experienced staircase contractor to ensure your new staircase meets all safety and building codes. They can design a staircase that is functional and safe, as well as designed to match your style.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Sep
3

Comparing Wood, Metal and Glass Stairs

Posted in Stairs

If you are adding a staircase to the interior your home or business, you have many different choices to make regarding the design. The first basic decision of the staircase material. Wooden staircases are the most common in homes but they are not the only option. Wood, metal and glass are some of the materials that can be used to create the perfect staircase for your needs. Here are the benefits of each material and how they can enhance your new staircase.

Wood Stairs

Wood is a classic material for staircases and can be used for simple or intricate designs. Wood risers, treads, balusters and railings can be stained, painted or carved. Many staircases are completely made from wood but it is also common to pair wooden treads with metal or glass railings and balusters. A solid wood staircase can last for decades, even centuries.

Metal Stairs

Metal can be a modern or contemporary option for stairs. Talented metal fabricators can create any size or style of metal railings or full staircases. From sleek stainless steel to artistic wrought iron, metal can bring a beautiful element to a staircase design.

Glass, Cable and Other Elements

Cables, glass and other elements can offer a unique style for your staircase. Glass and cables for handrail systems are popular in modern-style homes or businesses for a clean, simple appearance. Both can be paired with wood or metal treads to create the desired look.

You can think outside of the box and create a staircase that is functional and stylish. Contact a staircase designer to explore all the materials and style available to find the right options to create your perfect staircase.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Jun
24

Staircase Ideas for Small Spaces

Posted in Stairs

A sprawling staircase can be a beautiful feature in a large home but when space is at a premium, you want to limit the size of your staircase. Small spaces that require a staircase need creative options to climb to different levels. Here are some staircase ideas that require minimal space, offering both a functional and stylish feature to your multi-level building.

Steep, Vertical Staircase

Similar to a ladder, staircases can be created to be vertical, requiring only a few feet of area out of your room. These are very steep stairs but are functional and compact. Various materials and styles can be used to match the décor of the home or space.

Spiral Staircases

An elegant option for adding a staircase in a cramped area is the spiral staircase. Metal or wrought iron spiral staircases are popular due to the strength and versatility of these materials – glass can be used with metal to allow light to pass through. Wood can also be used for spiral stairs, but it tends to be bulkier than metal.

Floating Staircases

Stairs that are supported by the ceiling instead of the floor are floating staircases. These can leave more room underneath the stairs and create a open design for a room. Without risers or footing, floating staircases do not block vision or light, which helps make a room seem larger.

Narrow Wall Staircase

A traditional staircase that is narrow and placed against a wall can save space. The area under the stairs can be used to add a small closet, book shelves or storage space.

Staircases can be beautiful, functional and safe without taking up much space. To find the right compact staircase design for your building, contact an experienced staircase designer for customized options.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Jun
5

Unique Design Options for Balusters

Posted in Stairs

The railings of a staircase offer a beautiful way to enhance the design. Regardless of the shape or material of the handrail, the balusters can be created from different wrought iron, wood or steel, with various designs to compliment the style of the home. Whether your tastes are contemporary or traditional, there are many options in balusters to stylize your staircase and home.

Classic Wood Balusters

Wood balusters have been used for centuries and still continue to be a popular option. Most often, wood balusters are paired with a wooden handrail and newels, but more and more staircases are combining different materials. The baluster design can vary, from a classic, narrow baluster with a round shape, to panels and square options, in many different varieties of wood and finishes.

Wrought Iron Balusters

More and more homes are featuring wrought iron balusters. Even if the handrails, treads and newels are wood, you will often see wrought iron used for balusters. You may see Tuscan scrolls or twisted balusters in a Sonoma style, adding a decorative touch. Of course, wrought iron can be used in entirety for the handrails and treads, as well as the balusters.

Steel or Other Metals

For modern or contemporary staircases, you can see the shine of steel or other metals emerging. Steel balusters combined with glass or other materials, with straight lines and clean angles, is another option for a new look in staircases.

Balusters, along with the other elements of customized staircases, can create a stunning focal point in your home. Discuss the options available to create a staircase that adds aesthetics to your home’s style with a talented and experienced staircase designer. You may be amazed at all the choices available to create a staircase that is unique and memorable.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

May
9

7 Different Styles of Staircases

Posted in Stairs

Like most design aspects of a building, staircases come in many different styles. Not only are they a functional necessity in multi-level homes and buildings, they can add an element of beauty. The traditional staircase is just the beginning when it comes to options for transitioning the levels of a structure. Here are seven of the most popular styles of staircases that can be used in a building or home design.

  1. Mission. Straight, strong lines are the basis of mission style staircases, made from wood, metal or both. Balusters are integral to the form of this basic style, which is easily customized to fit its surroundings.
  2. Rustic. Using classic materials and designs can create the organic look of a rustic staircase, bringing a earthy appeal to a building.
  3. Southwestern. The southwest has a unique architectural style, as do the staircases that blend in with these buildings.
  4. Tuscan. Elaborate and elegant, Tuscan staircases incorporate intricate ironwork railings and designs to create works of art.
  5. Modern. Glass, stainless steel and metal are the staples of modern staircases, created to offer a sleek texture and streamlined look.
  6. Craftsman. Simplicity with elegance is the basis of the craftsman-style home and the staircases inside.
  7. Traditional. In staircases, traditional style can mean simple or intricate, depending on the home or building. It matches the décor using traditional materials and structure.

Finding the right staircase style can make a substantial difference in the beauty of your home or business. To create the look you desire, finding a staircase designer that can customize a staircase that will blend with your style and enhance the beauty of your building.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Apr
16

Benefits of Hiring a Stair Design Artist

Posted in Stairs

Are you building or remodeling a multiple-story home? One of the elements you will need to consider is your staircase. While a conventional staircase is functional, you have the option of exploring artistic construction that can make your staircase a centerpiece. A stair design artist specializes in creating unique staircases that can have many benefits for your home. Here are some reasons to consider hiring a stair design artist.

Match Your Style

A stair design artist can create a staircase that will match and enhance the style of your home. Whether you want a classic look or are striving for a modern or contemporary style, your stair designer can build a staircase that blends with the rest of your home.

Usage of Space

Staircases must be carefully placed to work with the flow of the home. In smaller homes, a spiral staircase can use less space and give you more room. A stair design artist can find the best structural blueprint to maximize space in your home.

Customized Details

Every element of a staircase can be customized to match your style. From the materials used to the shape of your staircase, a designer can create a stunning masterpiece that will improve the beauty of your home. Wrought iron, wood, glass or metals – all can be artistically shaped to build a gorgeous transition to your upper or lower levels.

Add Value

Unique features add value to your home. Make your stairwell one that sets your home apart from the rest by investing in a stair design artist.

Why settle for a boring staircase when you can have one built to match your tastes? Find a talented stair design artist to work with your remodeling or building team to create a perfect staircase for your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Feb
26

Trends in Staircase Handrails

Posted in Stairs

One of the most noticeable pieces of architecture inside a home is the staircase.  While it of course must be practical and safe, it can also make a beautiful statement about your home. And one of the most important aspects of the staircase is the handrail design and balusters. The detailing that a handrail has and the materials used in it can make all the difference, and can turn your home from builder’s basic to modern chic.

Some modern trends in handrails today is glass. Rather than using traditional spindles on the staircase, consider filling that space with clear, colored or patterned glass. It allows light to continue through the space and continues the open concept design that people want in their homes today.  A minimalistic metal top gives a place to grasp while capping that industrial look that is so sought after.

Another trend is to mix materials.  Using a traditional wooden rail with a wrought iron baluster is a timeless look. Another option is to use cabling or metal railing horizontally with a wooden rail.  Natural wood softens the industrial look of metal while still updating a space.

Color is also something to think about with staircase design. Contrasting a bright white stair with a very dark handrail, balusters and treads. Very dark browns and black are the new trend in stain and will make a traditional staircase design pop.

Whether you are having a new home built or are renovating your old home, contact a professional to help design a beautiful staircase with a unique handrail design. They add value, sophistication, and a one-of-a-kind statement to your home that won’t be duplicated in your neighborhood.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Jan
30

Parts of a Stair

Posted in Stairs

Staircases are a very important part of a home.  Not only can they add to a home’s beauty, their function is essential.  There are many parts of a stair to consider when having stairs installed or replaced in your home, and many codes to consider when choosing your design.

The Parts of the Stair

  • The Tread– The part of the stair that you step on. Make sure that the material chosen for the tread is durable. It will need to hold up to millions of uses and should be a comfortable width for the average foot.
  • The Stringers– the side of the staircase. These are the parts that the tread is attached to. It may be custom made or pre-cut for standard sizes. The wider the staircase, the more stringers are necessary to prevent sagging in the middle.
  • The Riser– the vertical piece that covers the space between each step. Some designs may allow for open risers, but it is important to know the code for your area.
  • The Nose– The part of the tread that overhangs the riser. Usually the nose is rounded and hangs about one inch over the previous riser.

It is important to work with a contractor that is familiar with the codes in your area as stairways have many regulations they must meet. If a staircase is not to code, it may have to be torn out wasting a lot of time and money. Talk to a reputable stair company when choosing the design and installation of your staircase for your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Dec
10

Benefits of Curved Stairs

Posted in Stairs

One of the most prominent features in any home is unavoidably the staircase.  They are large, necessary, they take up space and they are usually one of the first elements a viewer sees when entering the home. If staircases are planned properly, they can make a grand statement. Curved stairs are a great way to add style and value to a space.

Style

There are many types of curved staircases that can be used.  Arched staircases are close to traditional sizes of straight stairs but with a slight bend giving interest and using space efficiently.  If space is an issue, a spiral staircase has a very small footprint as they go up, however they are usually much more steep and narrow.

Value

Curved stairs definitely add value to the home.  They are more expensive to install, however they are less common and certainly never cookie-cutter. The materials you choose can also add to the value of your home, whether you choose metal or wood railings.

Design

Curved staircases always add a level of interest and sophistication to the space.  They turn an otherwise simply functional part of a house into an intentional statement that says something about the people who live there. They can be decorated for events to add even more interest.

If you are building a new home, talk to your architect or a professional staircase specialist about how you can add a curved staircase to your home. Choose a design that compliments the style of your home with tread choices and railings that make a statement. You only get one chance to make a first impression.  Make a grand statement with beautiful curved staircases designed especially for your home.

 

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Nov
15

Outdoor Staircases

Posted in Stairs

One of the most important elements to your elevated outdoor deck or front entryway is the staircase. Too often stairs are an afterthought when they can be a beautiful part of the design.  Here are some common options to consider when adding exterior stairs to your home.

Style

The style of your front entry should fit with the style of your home overall.  Whether you have a rustic farm house, a cool craftsman, or a sleek modern home, your stairs are the first introduction to what guests are going to experience when they walk through the door.  Consistency is important.

Materials

Wood is the most common type of staircase added to homes, but they do need maintenance as they are affected by the weather. Brick adds color to traditional home faces and they are easy to maintain and withstand the elements. Stone steps are a classical touch that give a natural feel to your entryway. Metal and aluminum staircases add modern elements to a space.  Also, the choice of railings and balustrade materials can be mixed in staircases to reflect a combination of styles. They may modernize or soften a space to give a more unique look.

The most important part of a staircase is the safety it provides for its user and the flow in and out of the home.  The width and height of the stairs should be considered for the average user.

If you need assistance in choosing the right type of stairs for your next project, consider going to a professional stair company where they can assist you in designing the best staircase for your space.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

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