Introduction

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Define your style with a unique staircase !

A staircase is more than just a construction that allows you to go from one floor to another; it's a central element of a décor and remains one of the first things you notice when entering a new space. A staircase also helps define the style of a house, apartment, office or commercial space, by combining components (balusters, newel posts, steel stringers, etc.), materials (wood, metal, steel, glass) and styles to create a unique and lasting staircase.

Prestige Metal has prepared a guide for interior staircases that covers the various aspects of staircase construction, such as staircase types, staircase styles, staircase components and materials that can be used to build a staircase.

This guide will help you make an informed choice about your future construction project and save you time and energy.

What are the main types of staircases?

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Straight staircase

The straight staircase is the most common on the market. Classic in appearance, it consists of a single flight of stairs with no change of direction. It remains the simplest staircase to design and build.

What are the benefits of a straight staircase?

  • Space efficiency: straight staircases are particularly effective at making the most of available space. They don't require as much floor space as spiral or L-shaped staircases, making them an excellent choice for tight spaces or room layouts where every inch counts.
  • Ease of use: Straight staircases are simple and easy to use. They offer direct ascent and descent without curves or changes of direction, making them practical and user-friendly for people of all ages, including the elderly and people with reduced mobility.
  • Design flexibility: Straight staircases are versatile in terms of design. They can be adapted to different architectural styles, and can be customized with different materials, finishes and decorative details to match the overall aesthetic of the room.

Straight staircase example: Straight staircase

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Straight staircase with central landing

If you have a room with a very high ceiling and are planning a straight staircase over 12 feet high, the straight staircase with central landing is perfect for you. The same applies if your staircase has more risers than the standard number of risers, which is usually 16. This type of staircase is more common in businesses and commercial buildings than in private homes.

 

What are the benefits of a straight staircase with a central landing?

  • Improved safety: The central landing provides a safe, stable resting space, which can be particularly useful in homes with family members of different ages. Users can take a break in complete safety when ascending or descending the staircase.
  • Increased comfort: The central landing provides a place to rest, take a breath or temporarily deposit objects, improving the overall comfort of the staircase.
  • Space-saving: Despite the addition of the landing, this configuration remains more compact than other, more complex staircases, saving space compared to some alternatives.
  • Ease of use: Although the staircase includes a landing, it remains relatively simple and easy to use, offering straightforward ascent and descent without excessive curves or changes of direction.
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Quarter-turn staircase (L-shaped staircase)

Also known as the L-shaped staircase, the quarter-turn staircase makes a 90-degree turn to the left or right after a landing. The L-shaped staircase saves significant space. It requires less length than a straight staircase and can be easily integrated into small areas or corners. Its price remains slightly higher than that of a straight staircase.

 

What are the benefits of the quarter-turn staircase?

  • Space-saving: Quarter-turn staircases are designed to fit into tighter spaces. With their L-shaped configuration, they use space efficiently, making them ideal for areas where space is limited.
  • Design versatility: Quarter-turn staircases can be customized with different materials, finishes and decorative details to suit the room's overall aesthetic. They offer design flexibility while retaining their characteristic L-shape.
  • Safety: Transitional landings in quarter-turn staircases offer rest areas that improve safety by allowing users to take a break while ascending or descending. This reduces the risk of fatigue or tripping.
  • Adaptability to space: Quarter-turn staircases can be designed to adapt to space constraints, making them a versatile option for different room configurations. They can also be used to efficiently link different levels of a house.

Example of a quarter-turn staircase: Quarter-turn staircase

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Half-turn staircase (U-shaped staircase)

Also known as the U-shaped staircase, the half-turn staircase makes one or two 180-degree turns, but has only one landing. Like the L-shaped staircase, the half-turn staircase saves space and allows you to build a staircase with an original style in smaller spaces.

Along with the straight staircase, this is one of the most popular types of staircases for new buildings.

 

What are the benefits of a half-turn staircase?

  • Transitional space: Half-turn staircases offer transitional landings between flights, improving safety by allowing users to pause while ascending or descending. These landings also provide better visibility and a stable resting area.
  • Space-saving: Like quarter-turn staircases, half-turn staircases are designed to make efficient use of space. They are ideal for tight spaces where space efficiency is essential.
  • Design versatility: Half-turn staircases can be customized with different materials, finishes and decorative details to match the room's overall aesthetic. Their U-shaped configuration offers design flexibility.
  • Adaptability to space: Half-turn staircases are designed to adapt to different room configurations. They are particularly useful for efficiently linking different levels of a home, while providing a functional transition space.

Half-turn staircase example: Half-turn staircase

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Curved Staircase

Unlike L-shaped and U-shaped staircases, the curved staircase, as its name suggests, follows a continuous curve and has no landings. A curved staircase will add a level of luxury to your home, office, or apartment. It will increase the resale value of any building. The curved staircase can be turned to suit any architectural configuration and doesn't take up as much space as an ordinary staircase.

 

What are the benefits of a curved staircase?

  • Impressive aesthetics: Curved staircases are often considered striking architectural elements. Their spiral or winding design creates an impressive and elegant aesthetic, making them an attractive focal point in any room.
  • Space-saving: Curved staircases use space very efficiently. They require less floor space than straight or quarter-turn staircases, making them an ideal option for tight spaces.
  • Design versatility: Although their shape is curved, spiral staircases can be customized with different materials, finishes and decorative details to suit the room's overall aesthetic. They offer great design flexibility.
  • Adaptability to space: Curved staircases can be designed to adapt to space constraints, notably by adjusting the radius of curvature or number of turns. This makes them suitable for different room configurations.

Curved staircase example: Curved Staircase

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Spiral staircase

The spiral staircase has a charm that can hardly be compared to other types of staircases. Its unusual design contrasts with the regularity of the square angles traditionally emphasized by most other types of staircases. The subtle difference between a spiral staircase and a circular staircase is often the presence of a central post, which reduces the surface area of the staircase.

The spiral staircase stands out for its versatility and ability to adapt to small spaces such as apartments, lofts, cottages, and small offices. Finally, because of its structure, the spiral staircase takes up very little space.

 

What are the benefits of the spiral staircase?

  • Perfect for small spaces: Unlike straight or U-shaped staircases, spiral staircases require little space to build. They can be installed in apartments, condos, cottages and even as a second staircase in your existing home.
  • Easy to build: There are ready-to-install spiral staircase kits on the market, used by building and renovation contractors to facilitate the installation of your staircase. These kits in no way compromise the structure or strength of your new spiral staircase.
  • Gives you access to more space: Without adequate access, some spaces you could use may be left out, such as a vast attic that could be turned into an extra bedroom. A spiral staircase offers flexibility in terms of access points, and is a better alternative than a straight staircase (too cumbersome) or a ladder (unsafe).
  • Use of space under the staircase: You can optimize the use of space under the spiral staircase by placing storage, furniture or other elements underneath, which is particularly useful in tight spaces.
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Double-flight staircase / Bifurcated staircase

A double-flight staircase - originally called a bifurcated staircase - is the quintessence of all interior staircases. Typically used in the entrance of a very large and spacious home, the staircase begins with a wider flight at the bottom. Part of the way up is a generous landing with two narrower flights on either side of the lower section - one on the left, the other on the right.

 

What are the benefits of a double-flight staircase?

  • Increased safety: Intermediate landings on two-flight staircases allow users to take breaks during ascent or descent, improving safety by reducing the risk of fatigue or tripping.
  • Versatility: Double-flight staircases are suitable for different room configurations and can be designed to adapt to specific constraints, such as changes in direction or architectural obstacles.
  • Aesthetics: Intermediate landings can be designed to add an aesthetic dimension to the staircase. They can serve as focal points in the overall design, and can be customized with different materials and finishes to match the style of the room.
  • Adaptability to space: Double-flight staircases are designed to adapt to the space available, making them suitable for different room configurations.

Floating (Suspended) Staircase

Also known as a floating staircase, a suspended staircase is made up of steps that don't join together, and has no stringer. Each step is independent of the others. The treads can join the two side walls, a single side wall or the central structure (in the case of a spiral staircase). The floating staircase offers a sensation of lightness without interfering with the transparency of the room in which it is installed.

 

What are the benefits of a floating staircase?

  • Impressive aesthetics: Floating staircases have an architecturally bold, modern appearance. Their suspended design creates an impressive, elegant aesthetic, often making them a striking design element in the space.
  • Space-saving: Floating staircases require less floor space than traditional staircases. Their minimalist design maximizes the use of space in a room, making them suitable for tight spaces.
  • Brightness and openness: Floating staircases allow natural light to circulate under and around them, creating a feeling of openness and brightness in the room. This can contribute to a lighter, airier atmosphere.
  • Bold design element: Floating staircases are often used as a central design element in modern, contemporary spaces, making them a popular choice for those seeking a unique aesthetic.

What are the flooring options for staircases?

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Wood floor covering

Wooden steps offer a more classic style, but blend well with other materials such as glass, metal, and natural stone.

Benefits: Wood is a strong, durable floor covering. It's also easy to maintain.

Disadvantages: In some cases, wood needs regular touch-ups to maintain its appearance and can be a little difficult to install.

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Laminate floor covering

Laminate flooring lets you explore a variety of styles, since it comes in a multitude of colors, textures, and designs.

Benefits: Laminate flooring is still more affordable than floor coverings such as ceramic or hardwood. Also, it can be installed over most surfaces, except for carpets.

Disadvantages: Laminate is not suitable for high-traffic areas, as it wears out more quickly. It also requires a wooden nosing to prevent the edge of the steps from wearing away too quickly.

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Carpet floor covering

Le couvre-plancher en tapis est moins courant pour le recouvrement d’un escalier, mais peut s’adapter à tous les styles, selon sa couleur et son motif.

Benefits: Carpet is a soft, sound-absorbing material. It's also easy to install.

Disadvantages: Carpet tends to wear out quickly when placed in high-traffic areas. It is also not suitable for allergy sufferers, as it easily picks up dust.

Ceramic floor covering

Ceramic offers a wide range of patterns, colors and textures to create a uniquely styled staircase. It is often used in office and commercial staircases.

Benefits: Ceramic is a tough, durable material. What's more, it's easy to clean and maintain.

Disadvantages: Ceramic is hard and cold for bare feet, and installation can be difficult.

Vinyl floor covering

Vinyl remains a versatile, all-purpose material that can easily imitate wood and stone at a fraction of the cost.

Benefits: Vinyl is an affordable flooring material. It's easy to install, clean and maintain.

Disadvantages: Vinyl can change color and lose its luster over time. It also requires a plastic nose to protect the edges.

What are the main styles of staircases?

The staircase is often a dominant and central element in homes, offices, and apartments. Before building a staircase, it's important to determine the style of your decor and then choose the type of staircase you want. Here are a few examples of staircase styles to inspire you. However, you can let your imagination run wild and combine different staircase styles to create a unique and original staircase.

 

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Contemporary staircase

The contemporary staircase remains a popular choice for new homes. The contemporary style is a clever combination of contrasts, such as a black central stringer and light-colored wooden treads. What's more, the fusion of materials such as wood, steel, glass, and metal give your staircase a very contemporary look.

Example of a contemporary staircase: Contemporary staircase

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Minimalist staircase

For those who prefer a clean, uncluttered look, without embellishments or arabesques, the minimalist staircase is the way to go. The minimalist style remains more neutral in terms of colors, tints, and contrasts, advocating pale hues and stainless steel, as well as pure line, devoid of curves. The combination of pale wood and steel baluster is a perfect example of the minimalist staircase.

Example of a minimalist staircase: Minimalist staircase

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Modern staircase

For modern staircases, the materials of choice are glass, metal, steel cable and stainless steel. The addition of a central stringer and glass balustrades is often recommended to open the view. The modern style favors the use of chrome-finish materials such as stainless-steel posts and balusters. For a more industrial touch, opt for a steel cable railing system.

Example of a modern staircase: Modern staircase

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Romantic and classic staircase

The classic, romantic staircase exudes sobriety and elegance with solid wood and forged steel balusters adorned with arabesques and ornamentation. This classic effect is often achieved by combining a curved staircase with more refined details on the railings and newel posts. Often, the color of the wood will be darker to reinforce the classic, romantic style. A staircase with dark wood treads and ornamental balusters will look like something out of a fairy tale!

Example of romantic and classic staircase: Romantic and classic staircase

Staircase parts terminology

Building a staircase is a colossal project that requires a major investment. With quality components and materials at hand, your construction will be durable, sturdy, and unique. A better understanding of staircase components and parts will help you choose the right model and materials. Here are the main components that will help you better understand the structure of a staircase.

 

Balusters: Elements of various shapes (round or square, wood, metal, steel, iron) located between the stair stringer and the handrail.

Closed staircase: A closed staircase has both treads and risers.

Corbel: Sealed, angled piece of metal used to hold a wall stringer or false stringer against a wall.

Drop: total height crossed by a staircase. In the case of an interior staircase, it is equal to the headroom plus the thickness of the landing floor. The difference in level is also known as the rise or staircase height.

Escapement or headroom: Vertical clearance between a stair nosing and the ceiling, or another stair in the upper flight, or any structural element. The headroom must not be less than 1.90m.

Flight: Set of straight steps between two landings on a staircase.

Handrail: Upper part of staircase handrail used to support the hand.

Landing: Horizontal platform at the end of or between two flights of stairs.

Newel post: First element of the balustrade, fixed to the floor before the staircase starts.

Open staircase: An open staircase has no risers, allowing you to see the space between all the steps.

Quarter-turn: Part where the staircase changes direction with the aid of balancing steps or a resting landing.

Rack and pinion: Sloping, stepped piece of wood on which one end of the treads and risers rests.

Riser: Vertical wooden panel connecting the space between two stair treads.

Shaft: Central concrete column of a prefabricated spiral staircase. Depending on how the staircase is connected to the shell, the shaft may be hollow or solid.

Stair day or lunette: Central space around which the staircase develops.

Stair nosing: Front edge of the tread, projecting from the lower riser.

Stair railings: Set of balusters and handrail providing protection in front of a void.

Stair stringer: Located on the side opposite the wall, the stringer is a piece of wood or steel on which the treads, risers and balusters of the banister rest. The stringer supports the staircase's loads. It ensures the staircase's stability.

Staircase height or climbing height: Distance between the start and finish levels of the staircase, measured from finished floor to finished floor.

Staircase wall: Refers to the wall on which the treads of a staircase rest. The walls delimiting the stairwell are often improperly referred to as "echiffre walls", even when they do not support the staircase.

Step: The width of the treads between the stringers of a staircase.

Stride line: Imaginary line corresponding to the average trajectory of a person ascending and descending a staircase.

Tread: Distance measured between the end of the staircase and the wall.

Tread height: Distance measured between the top surfaces of two consecutive treads on a staircase.

Tread: Horizontal distance measured between the noses of two consecutive steps. The treads of interior staircases vary from 27 to 32 cm.

Tips and tricks for building staircases

  • Tip 1 - Staircase location

    The staircase, its handrails and balusters will soon become part of your décor and your home. When the staircase occupies an important place in your home, it's essential to pay careful attention to detail from the very beginning. The location must be easy to access, safe and blend in well with your décor.

  • Tip 2 - Railing height

    For safety reasons, the height of guardrails is set at one metre above first-floor level. If you have an open space at the top of your staircase, designed for watching TV or a children's play area, make sure there's plenty of room for armchairs, sofas and couches elsewhere than against the first-floor railings.

  • Tip 3 - Staircases that are too long

    Try to avoid extremely long staircases. They can be intimidating when you're upstairs looking down. Long flights of stairs can be broken up with landings and changes of direction.

  • Tip 4 - Building space

    It's vital to allow plenty of space for the construction of your staircase. Take your own space into account when drawing up a construction plan. A few centimetres can make a huge difference to the "walking comfort" of your staircase.

  • Tip 5 - Planning

    Careful planning of the staircase and the space required to integrate it is essential. It's never too early to consult a staircase specialist and involve them in the planning process. Early involvement means a better, more satisfying result every time.

  • Tip 6 - Dimensions

    When an architect or designer sizes the stairwell (to a meter width, for example), the end result will never be a meter of clear width with a straight flight staircase; it will be up to 150 mm smaller than that. Constraints such as space for fingers on the banister and balustrade on the upper level always limit the clear width. Here again, planning is the best defense against disappointment.

  • Tip 7 - Consult the experts

    For reasons of economy, you may be tempted to build a staircase yourself. However, to ensure that it complies with regulations, consult a contractor specialized in staircase construction, especially in the case of floating staircases, which have no stringer or support, or in the case of spiral staircases.

  • Tip 8 - Design

    If you're not sure which staircase style is right for your home, apartment or office, you can ask a design specialist for advice. They can assess the style of your home, create a design and devise a plan that will not only suit your space, but complement your décor.

  • Tip 9 - Safety

    While the staircase can be a fun place for your children to play, it still needs to be safe. With a specialized contractor, it's easier to build a staircase that meets prescribed safety standards and remains safe for all members of your family.

  • Tip 10 - Continuous banisters

    A continuous banister doesn't stop or start at a newel post or at a point where the staircase changes direction. It continues in gentle curves from the bottom of the staircase to the top. It's particularly important to seek specialist advice if your staircase requires a continuous handrail. The design of this type of handrail is extremely technical, and the result depends entirely on the knowledge and expertise of the manufacturer.

What do I need to consider before building a staircase?

Building a staircase is an important and complex task that requires careful planning. Here are the essential elements to consider before starting to build a staircase:

 

Purpose and use: Determine the purpose of the staircase. Will it be used primarily for circulation between levels of a house, as a decorative element or to access storage space? Understanding the intended use will help you define the staircase's specific needs.

Choosing staircase-building professionals: While you may be tempted to build your own staircase, hiring a staircase-building contractor will save you time and money. Hire qualified professionals, such as an architect, structural engineer, or contractor, to design and build the staircase safely and in compliance with local regulations.

Local standards and regulations: Consult local building standards and regulations to ensure that the staircase complies with building codes, particularly with regard to dimensions, safety and accessibility. Your building contractor will be able to help you learn more about staircase construction regulations and standards in your region, province or country.

Budget: With the help of a staircase construction specialist, you'll be better able to establish a budget for staircase construction. Remember that your budget must take into account the cost of materials, labor and other related expenses.

Materials: Together with your contractor, choose the appropriate materials for the staircase based on desired aesthetics, durability, and budget. Common options include wood, metal, glass and concrete. He may also deal with specialized stair component manufacturers, such as Prestige Metal.

Location: Determine the exact location of the staircase in the building. Consider accessibility, circulation and how the staircase will fit into the surrounding space.

Configuration: Choose the staircase configuration according to available space and aesthetic needs. Common configurations include straight, quarter-turn, half-turn, spiral, etc.

Design: With the help of a construction specialist, interior designer or architect, you can design the staircase with the overall aesthetics of the space in mind. Consider details such as the design of treads, stringers, railings, and finishes.

Dimensions: Staircase dimensions, including tread width, riser height, tread depth and railing height, must be calculated to ensure user safety and comfort. These aspects are essential for your contractor to be able to order the various staircase components for you, such as stringers, balusters, and other accessories.

Safety: Safety is paramount. Make sure the staircase is safe to use by installing guardrails, handrails, and non-slip treads. Avoid sharp or protruding elements.

Planning a schedule: Define a timetable for building the staircase, considering material shipping times, labor availability and any other factors that may affect the schedule.

Order materials from the manufacturer: Your building contractor makes sure to order all stair components from trusted manufacturers, such as Prestige Metal, who deliver materials directly to the construction site.

What is the ordering process for staircase components at Prestige Metal?

The ordering process for staircase components (balusters, balustrades, stringers, starting posts) at Prestige can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the project, the specific materials required and the customer's preferences.

However, here's an overview of the ordering process for stair construction at Prestige Metal:

  • Project needs assessment: The contractor begins by assessing the project needs, including staircase dimensions, architectural style, desired materials, shipping time and budget. This step is essential to determine which staircase components will be needed.
  • Manufacturer selection: The contractor selects a staircase component manufacturer that matches his needs and requirements. This may be a local or national manufacturer, depending on product and service availability.
  • Consultation with the manufacturer: The contractor contacts the manufacturer to discuss project details. This may include a meeting with the manufacturer's representatives to discuss technical specifications, customization options, estimated costs and shipping times.
  • Design and customization: If necessary, the contractor works with the manufacturer to design and customize the staircase components according to the project's needs. This may include selection of materials, finishes, tread designs, railings, etc.
  • Quote: The manufacturer provides the contractor with a quote that includes estimated costs for fabrication, customization, transportation, and installation of the staircase components. The contractor reviews the quote and discusses adjustments if necessary.
  • Order validation: Once the quotation is accepted, the contractor places a formal order with the manufacturer. This order must include all project-specific details, such as exact dimensions, selected materials, finishes and agreed shipping times.
  • Production: The manufacturer begins production of the staircase components in accordance with the order specifications. This may include cutting, welding, painting, finishing and any other manufacturing steps required.
  • Quality control: The manufacturer performs quality control on the staircase components to ensure that they meet manufacturing and safety standards. Any necessary adjustments or corrections are made at this stage.
  • Shipping: Once the staircase components have been manufactured and approved, the manufacturer arranges shipping to the project site on the agreed date.
  • Installation: The contractor or his team installs the staircase components on site in accordance with the agreed plans and specifications. This stage may require adjustments and final finishing.

What are the best materials to use for your staircase?

Building a staircase requires durable, robust, high-quality materials. Each material has its benefits...and its drawbacks. It's up to you to choose the right material to create a staircase that suits your taste, budget and style!

Wood Staircase

Benefits: Since time immemorial, wood has offered a charm and aesthetic appeal that no other material can. Regardless of the type of wood (cherry, oak, maple and beech are the best!), you can combine wood with any other material to create the style you desire. What's more, with proper maintenance, wooden staircases perfectly meet the requirements in terms of resistance to passage, moisture and slipping.

Disadvantages: If you want to maintain the noble appearance of your wooden staircase, you'll need to carry out maintenance every season to preserve the wood and make its aesthetic and functional qualities last. Wood remains a relatively expensive material and can be sensitive to excessively high humidity or drastic temperature changes.

Steel / Metal Staircase

Benefits: Whether it's metal treads for a more industrial look, forged steel balusters for a more contemporary style, or steel cables for a modern look, metal and steel have gained in popularity in staircase construction. What's more, the various metal components can be customized more easily (finishes, colors, looks). Metal and steel also combine well with other materials such as wood and glass to create an incomparable style. Also, metal and steel are lightweight and lend themselves better to small spaces, especially for load-bearing structures.

Disadvantages: Metal and steel are generally more expensive than wood. Even in an environment with stable temperature and humidity, metal or steel may rust after several years (unless you use stainless steel). Finally, metal and steel are subject to vibration when the staircase is in use (can give an unpleasant sensation).

Glass Staircase

Benefits: As well as combining perfectly with contemporary style and adding extra brightness to any room with its ability to let light through, glass also makes the room feel larger. Glass balustrades also blend well with other materials to create an original and unusual style. Finally, the glass used in staircases, notably for treads and railings, is particularly resistant.

Disadvantages: In addition to a higher-than-average price, glass requires (you guessed it), regular maintenance to avoid fingerprints, liquid splashes, etc.

Concrete Staircase

Benefits: Concrete isn't a very common material for interior staircases, yet it offers a number of benefits. Its great workability means you can create a staircase to measure. You can enhance its smooth, dull appearance with wood or colored tiles. A concrete staircase is virtually indestructible; it will be strong and last for many years. What's more, the fact that the stair treads are solid, considerably reduces the noise and creaking that is possible with wood.

Disadvantages: Although relatively inexpensive, the installation of an interior concrete staircase is extremely time-consuming (3-6 weeks) due to the formwork required for the treads and the drying time. Also, concrete can have a dull, cold appearance.

Natural Stone Staircase

Benefits: Natural stone staircases, like marble and slate, give an elegant, natural look that complements luxurious, classic decors. Natural stone comes in many colors, shades and textures, and is very hard and resistant.

Disadvantages: Despite its rich appearance, natural stone remains an expensive option for staircase installation, especially curved staircases, and requires a protective layer of sealer after installation.

FAQ (Frequently asked questions) about interior staircase building

What is the average cost of building an interior staircase?

The cost varies according to the size, material, and complexity of the staircase. It can vary from a few thousand to several thousand dollars.

Can I customize the design of my interior staircase?

Yes, most interior staircases can be customized in terms of materials, finishes, colors and aesthetic details.

Do I need a professional to build my interior staircase?

It's strongly recommended to use a qualified professional, such as an architect or contractor, for the design and construction of interior staircases to ensure safety and compliance with standards.

How long does it typically take to build an interior staircase?

The duration varies according to the complexity of the project, but it can generally take a few weeks, or even several months, from design to final installation.

Can I add lighting to my interior staircase?

Yes, lighting can be integrated into the staircase for aesthetic and safety reasons. Recessed lights, LED ribbons or wall sconces are commonly used.

I want to buy staircase materials from Prestige Metal to build the staircase in my house. Can I order them directly from the company?

Unfortunately, no. If you've found staircase components that meet your needs in our company, you'll have to go through your building contractor, who will place the order with your measurements and specifications, directly with Prestige Metal or one of our distributors.

I'm a contractor and I need to buy stair hardware for the construction of an apartment complex. Can I order them directly from Prestige Metal?

Before placing your order with Prestige Metal, we recommend that you make an appointment with one of our consultants to discuss your needs and budget. You can also purchase your materials from one of our distributors across Canada and the United States.

Staircase construction codes and regulations in Quebec, Canada and the United States

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In business for over fifteen years, Prestige Métal is always on the lookout for new construction regulations and standards for staircase components (balusters, steel stringers, newel posts, steel cable guardrail systems, etc.).

Although our team does not install staircase components, we rigorously respect the standards prescribed by the Régie du Bâtiment du Québec (RBQ), the National Building Code (Canada) and the International Building Code (ICB and ICC), so that architects, general contractors, renovation companies and designers can meet their customers' needs.

These standards include regulations on the height of guardrails, which, for the safety of home occupants, must comply with certain manufacturing rules to always ensure your safety. Below you'll find examples of the rules for interior staircase railings and step construction.

Examples of construction standards - Stair railings

  • All open walking surfaces over 30 inches must be equipped with a guardrail. This includes decks, patios, landings, stairs, and ramps. The height is measured vertically, extending to the ground or to ground level (at any point within 36 inches, measured horizontally, of the edge of the open side).
  • Stair railings on open surfaces, e.g. stairs, must have a height of at least 36 inches measured from the top of the rail to (1) the tread surface (2) the fixed seats or (3) the line connecting the front edges of the steps. There are two exceptions to this rule. The first applies to guardrails on the open sides of staircases, and the second applies to guardrails whose top also serves as a handrail on the open side of a staircase.
  • The interior sections of required guardrails may not have openings large enough to pass through a 4" diameter sphere. There are two exceptions to this rule. The first refers to triangular openings at the bottom of staircases, and the second to guardrails on the open side of staircases.
  • Guard filler elements, balusters and filler panels must withstand a normal load of 50 pounds (applied horizontally) on an area equal to one square foot.

Examples of construction standards – Steps

  • All stairs must have a minimum width of 36" and a minimum height of 6' 8".
  • Risers must have a maximum height of 7 ¾"and open risers must have a height of 4" or less.
  • Each step in a staircase must have a minimum depth of 10". The tread of curved staircases must not be less than 6" deep.
  • Residential stairs must have nosings between 1 ¼" and ¾" long, with a difference between the longest and shortest nosings being less than 3/8".
  • Residential stairs with four or more risers need handrails for added safety. Handrails should be between 34" and 38" above the stairs. They should be at least 1 ½" away from the wall so they can be easily grasped. Handrails should also be no more than 4 ½" away from the wall so as not to make the stairs too narrow.
  • Gaps between panels should be less than 4" to prevent children from passing between openings.

Examples of construction standards - Steel staircases

  • Escape height (distance between steps and ceiling): 1.95 m (76 ¾ in.)
  • Riser height: between 14.6 and 20 cm (5 ¾ in. and 8 in.), the standard being 19 cm (7.5 in.)
  • Stair nosing: minimum 2.5 cm (1 in.)
  • Depth of each step (tread): minimum 23.5 cm (9 ¼ in.)
  • Tread of one step: depth from 21.6 to 29.2 cm (8.5 to 11.5 in.), but usually between 25.4 and 30.5 cm (10 to 12 in.)
  • Stair width: minimum 86.4 (34 in.)
  • Distance between stringers (support pieces): maximum 120 cm (47 ¼ in.)

If you'd like to find out more about the manufacturing standards for staircase components, we invite you to contact us. Our technical team will be delighted to answer any questions you may have.

Association Lists

To offer products of the highest quality and meet construction and manufacturing standards, Prestige Métal works closely with construction associations in Quebec, Canada and internationally. Our team is fully licensed to manufacture staircase components. For more information on our licenses and accreditations, please consult the list below.

About Prestige Metal

Since its creation in 1997, Prestige Metal has been striving for perfection in the production of staircase components. This process begins with the selection of the highest quality materials, reputable suppliers and a team of experienced workers.

We've also forged lasting, respectful partnerships, enabling us to offer stair balusters, steel stair stringers, wood and steel starter posts and custom railings, all of which stand out for their fashionable appearance and unique design.

Our technical team has also chosen materials (forged steel, stainless steel, wood, steel cable, glass, etc.) that can be easily integrated into any style (classic, contemporary, modern, industrial, etc.).

Prestige Metal focuses its energies on the creation and production of exclusive and original staircase components. The combination of various materials, such as crystal and wood in stainless steel balusters, enables us to offer a unique style to the décor of your home, apartment, or business. We want to make your staircase more than just a practical everyday object, but an architectural masterpiece that everyone will notice at first glance.

Whether it's glass, stainless steel, aluminum, wood species or iron, finishes, stains or paints for stair balusters, modules, newel posts and other stair accessories, Prestige Metal's suppliers are pre-selected and hand-picked to present our customers with products they won't find anywhere else.

We are proud to offer products throughout Quebec, Canada and even the United States, through specialized distributors and retailers. Many architects, general contractors, renovation companies and interior designers have used our products for their construction and design projects and have come away completely satisfied.

Rest assured that you'll get impeccable, fast, and reliable service to design a staircase that will be the centerpiece of your construction!

Contact us!

Questions about our services, our manufacturing process, our prices or our staircase components? Don't hesitate to contact us by e-mail or phone or come and meet us in person. You can also visit our showroom to check out all our innovative styles! Our consultants will be delighted to advise you!

To join our head office, showroom and manufacturing workshop:

 

Prestige Metal
2120, Lavoisier
Quebec, QC, Canada
G1N 4B1
 (Click here for the itinerary)

Phone:
1-800-881-8811 (Toll Free)
418-872-2599

Fax:
1-888-334-3002 (Toll Free)
418-872-2563

Email: support@prestigemetal.com