Different Types of Staircase

A staircase not only connects two floors but also plays an important role in making the space look aesthetically appealing and creating a wow statement. When designed, manufactured, and installed correctly, a staircase can transform your space dramatically by infusing life into it. But the biggest confusion always comes at finding the best staircase suiting your needs. Regal Stairs, the best staircase manufacturer company in the UK, brings an exclusive collection of different types of staircases based on types of materials, construction methods and geometrical shapes. Let’s get started.

Based on the Construction Method

Have a look at various types of staircases depending on the method of construction.

1. Standard Construction: This is one of the most common methods of construction preferred by a maximum of the manufacturers. Here the staircase has closed stringers and closed risers. The steps are constructed using glue blocks and wedges. Glue blocks are used to give structural support to the risers or treads of the staircase. The underside of the stairs is covered, usually using plasterboard.
2. Open Riser Construction: This construction method is usually getting popular as removing the risers will allow light and air to pass through. This also makes the staircase attractive and impressive. It is mainly of two types. Fully open riser (no riser is present) and mini open riser (a small riser is kept).
3. Cut String Construction: Here the stringers are cut in a way that the profile of the stairs is visible from the side in a saw-toothed manner.
4. Open Back Construction: In this construction method, the treads and risers are connected to the strings using screws. There is no need to use the glue blocks for additional support. The screws can be hidden by using small pieces of matching material that conceal them. These are also known as zig-zag staircases or folding staircases.
5. Space Saver Stairs: Other names for these stairs are loft stairs or paddle stairs. Here the treads are cut alternately (left and right) in such a way that only one foot can be placed.
6. Storage Staircase: This is one of the most practical and innovative designs of the staircase that includes built-in storage drawers, components, or shelves either underneath the stairs or within the steps.

Based on Geometrical Shape

Next, here are some popular types of staircase designs based on geometrical shapes or layouts.

7. Straight Staircase: These staircases run straight and do not have any turns in between them they may or may not have a landing space between them.
8. L-shaped Staircase: The L-shaped staircase consists of two flights of stairs that have a 90-degree turn between them. These are also known as quarter turn staircase.
9. U-shape Staircase: Also known as half half-turn staircase, here the two straight flights of stairs are joined using landing space or kite winders and the turn happens at an angle of 180 degrees.
10. Curved Staircase: Here the flight of stairs is given a gentle curve. These are space-consuming staircases and are often constructed in residential or commercial spaces having a good amount of space. Other forms of curved staircases include helical and circular staircases.
11. Spiral Staircase: Best used for compact spaces, here the treads run around a central axis either in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction.
12. Bifurcated Staircase: These are one of the grandest and most luxurious types of staircases. Here they have one straight flight of stairs which is bifurcated into two flights of stairs in opposite directions (either a 90-degree turn or a 180-degree turn).
13. Winder Staircase: Winding or Winder staircase forms one of the most space efficient designs for giving a curve in the staircase. Here trapezoidal or triangular steps are used to navigate the turn.
14. Cantilevered Staircase: Commonly known as a floating staircase, here the bannister supporting the treads is hidden in the wall. Since there are no risers, it creates an illusion that the treads are floating in the air.

Based on Material

Different materials are used in the construction of staircase elements such as wood, glass, marble, concrete and more. Material is the major cost-contributing factor. Have a look at some of the common materials used in staircase manufacturing.

15. Stone: Stones such as Granite, Marble, Corian etc. are hard, strong, and long-lasting and offer an elegant look to the staircase. Another reason that they’re becoming popular is that they’re weather-resistant and non-absorbent.
16. Timber: Wooden or timber staircases are lightweight and easy to construct. Due to the ease of customization nature of timber (both hardwood and softwood), you can get a truly bespoke masterpiece of your space. Some common timber used are oak, walnut, maple, and pine.
17. Brick: The beautiful brick staircase reflects the rustic and industrial architectural aesthetics of the space. The treads made of bricks usually need to be covered using suitable flooring material.
18. Steel: Steel or Metal stairs are one of the much-preferred options in the industry due to their ability to handle stress perfectly. Cast Iron is majorly used to make spiral stairs.
19. Concrete: Concrete stairs are known for their versatility, adaptability, and durability. These have rapidly become a common feature in homes and modern construction.
20. Glass: Glass is one of the beautiful elements of modern architecture that is both functional and gives an artistic look. The staircase can be made up of all glass or some parts of it such as the railing. The glass used is toughened, tempered, and laminated to give it strength.

The Bottom Line

Whatever type of staircase you choose, the staircase must fit well with your space and aesthetics plus your budget too. Hire a reputed, trusted, and experienced staircase manufacturer in the UK for beautiful bespoke stairs for your space.