Decor & Improvement Accessories
Stairs are a significant factor in building or renovating your house and how it appears and feels. We’ll explore two common types of stairs: floating and central stairs, to aid in determining what works best. What Are Floating Stairs?
Floating stairs provide a modern, clean look for your home. As the name implies, these stairs appear to float in the air.
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What Are Floating Stairs?
Floating stairs give a modern, clean look to your home. As the name suggests, these stairs look like they’re floating in the air. The steps attach to your walls with a hidden metal structure for support. Without visible supports underneath, these stairs let light pass through and make your space feel bigger and brighter.
The magic of floating stairs comes from strong engineering. Each step gets firmly attached to your wall or connects to a strong metal beam that runs up the middle. Think of it like a sturdy shelf that’s strong enough to walk on.
What Are Central Stairs?
Central stairs are the traditional type we see in most homes. They have solid supports on both sides and sometimes include a platform in the middle for longer flights. While they take up more space, they provide excellent stability and work with any home style.
Central stairs use trusted building methods that have worked well for many years. They’re like a bridge between floors, with strong supports on each side making sure every step stays firmly in place.
Materials and Stairs Style Options
Both types of stairs can use different materials to match your home:
For floating stairs, builders often use concrete steps, steel supports, glass safety rails, or wooden steps. These materials need to be extra strong since they don’t have as much visible support.
For central spine stairs, you’ll often see wood, metal, or a mix of both. These stairs can handle more decorative touches since they have plenty of support built in.
Space and Stairs Storage
Floating stairs shine in smaller homes because they leave open space underneath. You could put a desk, shelves, or storage under these stairs since there aren’t any supports in the way.
Central stairs need more room but offer their own benefits. They can help divide large rooms into separate areas and often include built-in storage spaces. The middle landing can even become a small reading nook or display area.
Costs to Consider
Floating stairs usually cost more because they:
- Need special design work
- Require skilled installers
- Use more expensive materials
Take longer to install
Central stairs typically cost less because:
- Use standard building methods
- Need less specialized work
- Use regular materials
- Take less time to install
Staircase Safety Matters
Both types of stairs must follow strict safety rules about:
- How tall each step can be
- How deep each step must be
- Having strong handrails
- Supporting people’s weight safely
Making Your Choice
Think about these points when deciding:
Your Home’s Style: Modern homes often pair well with floating stairs, while central stairs fit any style from traditional to contemporary.
Available Space: If you have a smaller home, floating stairs might help save valuable space. Larger homes can easily fit central stairs.
Your Budget: Central stairs usually cost less to build and maintain.
Family Needs: Families with young children or older adults might prefer central stairs for their traditional, sturdy design.
Getting Professional Help
Currently, both floating and central stairs would enhance your home – it’s finding the right fit for your needs, style and budget. Speak to experts, review examples, and consider whether you’ll use the stairs daily before making a decision.
Keep in mind a good staircase doesn’t just function; it is up there in terms of architecture – beautifully designed and integral to the home, adding a tonne of value. Professional designers and contractors can make sure that the staircase you choose matches what you want and need, while also being in line with construction rules in your area.
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