Drawing out stairs: here's how to proceed

Would you like to design and calculate your staircase yourself? If you’re a handy DIYer, this is a great way to get started on a new design. You can then take your own drawing to a staircase specialist to ensure your staircase is made to measure perfectly. Would you rather avoid the maths? In that case, a staircase renovation is often a simpler and more sustainable alternative.

Before you get started, it’s useful to familiarise yourself with the basic concepts:

• Step height – the distance between the bottom and top of the step
• Rise – the height of a step (ideally: 17–19 cm)
• Tread width – the tread surface of a step (ideally: 27–29 cm)
• Riser – vertical board beneath the step (not present on open staircases)
• Strings – the sides to which the steps are anchored
• Rise – the slope of the staircase (ideal: 30°–40°)
• Headroom – the clear height between the staircase and the ceiling
• Projection – the total horizontal space occupied by the staircase

To calculate a straight staircase, first determine how many steps are required. For example: with a rise of 2.55 m and a tread depth of 17 cm, you will need 15 steps. With a run of 3.50 m, this gives a tread depth of 28.3 cm – which is virtually ideal. It is important that the rise and run are in balance; otherwise, the staircase will be uncomfortable or even unsafe.

Designing a staircase requires precise calculations. Do you find this complicated, or would you rather leave it to the experts? There are handy calculation tools available, or you can call in a specialist straight away. In new-build homes, installing a staircase is often unavoidable, but in existing homes a complete replacement is usually not necessary. With a staircase renovation, you can give your current staircase a completely new look, without any demolition work.

Whether you prefer to do the calculations yourself or would rather leave it to us, the aim remains the same: a sturdy, comfortable and stylish staircase. With a staircase renovation, we ensure that your existing staircase looks as good as new, finished in a style that perfectly complements your interior. Would you like to know what the best solution is for your staircase? Contact us for personalised advice or visit one of our showrooms.