Stairs are one of the most important features of every house or building, both in terms of their use and aesthetics. In fact, for most people, selecting the actual staircase design is the fun part of the process, while selecting the right material is definitely the critical part. Stairs made of steel are good for several reasons. Steel is probably one of the most versatile and practical materials you might choose. That is why it is one of the most popular construction materials for making staircases.
In this blog, we will see how a steel staircase is an ideal choice for construction projects.
Which Parts of the Staircase Can Be Steel?
The versatility of steel allows its application across different staircase components while functioning alone or in partnership with other materials. Here are the primary options:
1. Complete Steel Staircase
A complete steel staircase provides ultimate durability and maximum strength because it uses only steel materials. All staircase components, including stringers, treads, risers, railings and frames can be made from steel. Such steel staircase designs appear frequently in both industrial facilities and commercial buildings along with several contemporary residential buildings.
2. Only Treads
Steel treads create a distinctive design when used in combination with wooden frames or glass stringers. They provide superior durability together with excellent slip-resistance, and they stay easy to maintain.
3. Only Railings
Steel railings when combined with wooden glass or concrete staircases bring a contemporary appearance to outdoor areas. These components contribute to safety without altering the appearance of other selected materials.
4. Only Stringers (Frames)
The framework provided by steel stringers works together with wooden, stone and glass treads. Floating staircases along with contemporary designs frequently use this particular material combination.
5. Combinations of Materials
● Steel construction with wooden steps creates traditional designs that deliver contemporary warmth.
● Steel Railings and Glass Panels: This creates a minimalist and open feel.
● Steel Treads and Stringers with Wooden Handrails: Combines durability with natural beauty.
● Steel Frames with Stone Treads: Adds a luxurious touch with strong support.
You can use our staircase cost calculator to estimate the expenses for your steel staircase project.
Types of Steel Staircases
1. Rectangular/ Square Tube Single Stringer Stairs
These stairs use one rectangular steel stringer which runs through the center. They have a contemporary minimalist appearance because the treads directly connect to the stringer. This staircase design suits open areas because it possesses remarkable structural power while working with different tread materials which include wood, stone, and glass.
2. Round Tube Curved Floating Stair
A floating appearance results from the central round steel tube stringer in this stair design. The design features both practical strength and contemporary appeal, making it an appropriate choice for modern houses and professional buildings. The combination of glass or wooden treads produces an exquisite match with this design.
3. Zig-Zag Double Stair Stringer
This stair structure consists of two steel stringers with a zig-zag shape to handle the treads. The vivid design produces both an eye-catching visual impact and exceptional stability. The contemporary and industrial appearance of zig-zag stringers functions well with different tread materials such as wood, steel and glass.
4. Exposed Cantilevered Stair Stringer
The single steel stringer design includes one support beam installed on one side which enables tread overhangs. The visible steel stringer adds industrial appeal to the space while floating treads give an open and spacious effect which suits minimalist designs perfectly.
5. Double Rectangular Tube Stair Stringers
The stairs receive support from parallel rectangular steel stringers extending throughout each side. The symmetrical and heavy-duty framework of this design makes it appropriate for demanding applications. This design suits all stair tread materials including wood, metal and glass, so you can create different aesthetic styles.
6. Concealed Cantilevered Stair Stringer
The steel stringer runs inside the wall space while only exposing the floating treads to view. The design produces an elegant minimalistic look. The modern appearance of this design becomes elegant through its combination with wooden glass or stone treads.
7. C-Channel Double Stair Stringers
The stair treads obtain their support from two parallel steel channels which form a C-shaped shape. The industrial features of this product design make it suitable for commercial applications. These visible channels remain either natural or receive paint based on interior design factors and coordinate well with both wood and metal treads.
8. I-Beam Stair Stringers
The structural framework provided by I-beams functions as stringers that deliver outstanding strength to the system. The industrial design is suitable for commercial spaces and high-load areas. This design looks best with wood or concrete treads because it shows exposed steel beams.
If you’re interested in learning more about different types of stairs, check out our comprehensive guide on types of stairs in building construction.
Which Places Do Steel Staircases Get Installed?
Here are some of the more common places to encounter steel staircases:
- Commercial Buildings: Steel staircases are most times used in various commercial buildings like offices, hospitals, schools, and malls. These are long-lasting and ideal for places with heavy pedestrian traffic and can be constructed in a manner that will meet code requirements.
- Industrial Facilities: These staircases are used in factories, warehouses, and other industrial building constructions. They give a safe and strong way of getting to the mezzanines, platforms, and other elevated surfaces.
- Residential Buildings: Modern and industrial houses tend to integrate steel stairs as they can easily adapt to the existing interiors.
- Outdoor Spaces: Steel staircases can also be used in open areas like parks, stadiums, or public grounds. They are weatherproof and thus can work well in most weather conditions.
Benefits of Steel Staircases
Highly Durable
Given their long-term design, steel stairs are said to be perfect for businesses. Once business owners construct these stairs, they may rely on them for years without needing quick replacement. This is because steel is a component meant to resist different environments. Steel staircases undergo chemical treatments mainly to boost their strength. A top coating is also included to improve their longevity and shield them from rust in humid environments. Steel stairs can also withstand any high pressure or impact, helping them to be serviceable for many years.
Installed Independently
Constructing steel stairs is the easiest approach to installing a flight of stairs. Since metal stairs can readily be manufactured in parts at a metal shop and assembled at the construction site, installing steel stairs as independent portions of a commercial structure is very simple. Where there are landings or floors, they support the stairs structurally. If these are not provided, the steps can be built apart from the floor construction.
Easy maintenance
One can treat structural steel in a staircase to withstand impacts and rust. A steel staircase needs very little care (including regular painting coats) to keep it appearing brand new. Unlike this, timber requires consistent sanding and reapplication of chemical treatment over time.
Conclusion
A steel staircase can be a great addition to your space. But, without the right construction quality and safety, it can be a hassle to include. This is where Brick & Bolt comes in to serve your construction requirements. Our team of experts brings in decades of experience in constructing spaces that are in line with your requirements. Whether you are planning to construct your commercial or residential space, we can get all your construction needs covered. Contact us today and rest assured that your construction project is in the right hands.
Mithali Konety