When you are thinking of construction projects in a minimal space, staircase installation is a tricky decision. Therefore, the first thing that comes to your mind is how to build stairs in a small space? Don’t you worry at all? This article is to help you with a step-by-step guide.
Our company Ovoms has experts to suggest to you the best idea for a small space staircase design that suits your space. Also, we can build any type of staircase using different materials. Design aspects are specially taken care of. With a bit of basic knowledge, you can simply design a customized staircase of your own.
Various Staircase Design Ideas
There are a bunch of different categories that can save your space as well as maintain the aesthetics and utilization. Here are some staircase ideas for small spaces.
Spiral Staircase
The most common solution is a spiral staircase. It takes less space but looks very classy. Full Spiral stairs curve up to the next floor from even a small corner. Viewers’ attention is easily grabbed by this sculptural piece. Different materials such as metal, wood, cement, etc. are used to build this staircase.
Multi-Functional Staircase
Another well-known method is the use of a multi-functional staircase. Just like the name suggests this staircase serves multiple purposes. The stairs are used for clothing and accessories storage. Moreover, it can be shaped as a shelf. So the area it takes doesn’t feel like a waste of space.
Open Staircase
In modern houses, an open staircase can provide a minimal look. These types of stairs don’t have risers. So it can give you a feel of visual spaciousness since it doesn’t block the free movement of light. Additionally, this stair is suitable for both home and office interiors. But if you have children, you might avoid it for safety reasons.
Hanging Staircase
A hanging staircase is quite a new addition to small space staircase ideas. Strong metal frames hold the stairs from the upper floor. Sometimes it’s called a floating staircase as it looks like floating and doesn’t connect with the floor underneath. Materials for these stairs may be glass or wood.
Invisible Stairs
Don’t get confused with the name. Invisible stairs are made of glass. It is definitely space-saving and it creates an illusion that there is nothing taking up space. The light passes through the material easily and sometimes reflects as well. It pairs up perfectly with a metal frame.
Steps of Staircase Installation In A Small Space
You have learned about different staircase ideas. Now time for the main segment.
If you wish to do the small space stairs design and installation by yourself then that is not a tough job either. You will need some tools, materials and proper guidance. To make it a little easier, we are discussing the steps below in detail.
Step 1: Taking Basic Measurements
First things first – you will need all the measurements to calculate a few equations. Let’s see what you should do –
- Floor-to-floor height is a must to determine at first so that you count the rise.
- Next, you should divide the total rise by rising per step.
- In order to find out the rise per step, you have to divide the total rise by the number of steps.
- After that, you should check whether the calculation maintained the run or tread width minimum of 9 inches which means 23 centimeters. Keep in mind, that 10 inches tread width is most suitable ergonomically.
- From beginning to end, the horizontal distance of the staircase is the total run. When you multiply the run of each step by the number of the total steps, you can estimate the distance.
- Then comes the question about landing. It will depend on the total run. After a maximum of 14 steps, a landing is necessary. But of course, if you prefer, you can design a landing after a mini section.
- Now it’s time to measure stringers’ length. Stringers basically hold the steps.
- Think of the way you want to build the stairs in accordance with the existing structure.
- Figure out the number of stringers you need.
Step 2: Cutting Stringers
When you are done with the measurement part, then it comes to cutting the stringers. This step will require tools. Here’s what to do-
- Pick a 2 inches × 12 inches lumber and lay it down. Adjust the ends the way you need.
- Point out the position of the tread and riser with the help of a carpenter’s square.
- Adjust the stringer top to get the appropriate overall angle.
- Draw every step on the lumber piece so that there is no mistake afterward.
- To cut the steps conveniently, you can use a hand saw or a circular saw.
- The bottom of the stringer should be cut square as it will flush with the ground.
- Before cutting another stringer, you should check whether it sets in place.
- If it’s alright then you can use the first stringer as a template to cut the other ones.
Step 3: Set Up The Staircase
Finally, it’s time for setting up the staircase in place. With proper calculations and cut pieces in hand, this step is not that hard to deal with. For the setup –
- It is better to start off with the installation of stringers. There are a bunch of different ways to do that. We suggest you screw the metal joint at the bottom.
- When installing the risers, the stringers will become stable and secure.
- Just after the risers, you should install the treads.
- You can connect trim boards with outer stringers. This part is optional.
- At last, you should varnish and paint the stairs to your choice. If needed, seal them.
Tips on Staircase Building
We have some suggestions for you to have better results –
- If you want a soft tread edge, use a 1/2-inch round overbite to route the edge before installation.
- To prevent material splitting, predrill the holes.
- Underneath the riser and tread joint, you can put glue blocks.
- Don’t forget to seal the underneath of the last stair step.
The Verdict
You should become a specialist by now on the topic of how to build stairs in a small space? Technically, it’s not something impossible. Just some preliminary carpentry skills and you can do the rest. But when you feel like getting professional hands for this job, we are always there to help you.
