A Brief Explanation - Stairs

Straight stairs are as the name implies, a straight run of treads and risers which form the steps and connects two levels or floors in a building. They may also include handrails with spindles or glass balustrade. Straight staircases can be fitted against walls or with open sides which have balustrades fitted either side.

Kite Winder stairs are stairs with a straight flight but also have steps which make a turn to change the direction of the staircase. More than one set of “kites” can be added to change the direction more than once. The name “kite” comes from the shape of the step which is formed to make the turn.

Quarter and half landing stairs are similar to the kite winder stairs but where the kites are used for the turn, instead a single large step or “landing” is fitted to change the direction. Again, more than one landing can be added to the staircase. A landing can also be added to a straight set of stairs to give a resting place or feature.

Floating or cantilevered stairs are stairs which are attached to the wall on one side, usually with steels to support the treads and the steels are then concealed with timber to create stair treads which gives the illusion they are floating unsupported. Other ways of creating floating stairs are available depending on the project. They are easiest to install when planned into a new build or renovation rather than a small remodel project, as the steel supports or other means of support can be planned into the building works and the supporting wall can be constructed accordingly.

Other stair types are available. For more information or a quote please contact us.