Adding a curve is a piece of mathematical genius!

Spiral staircases look like the work of a mathematical genius and, so a certain extent, they need to be. The central column offers the structure around which the stairs curve and climb but, there are some important building regulations that must be met and adhered to in order that spiral staircases for Coatbridge properties are perfect, as well as fit for use!

Understanding the jargon!

Whenever you look to replace or build from new, your research of spiral staircases will throw a whole load of new words and phrases your way! You need to make sure you know which parts these terms are referring to so here is a quick guide:

• Tread – this is the part of the spiral staircase you will walk on (i.e. tread on)
• Riser – This is the vertical part between each tread on spiral staircases but, they can be either open (that is, nothing there) or closed - in other words, there is a ‘backing’ such as wood, traditional wooden staircases in older Coatbridge properties will probably have closed risers.
• String or stringer – found on most types of staircases, this is the structure that supports the treads and rises; they can be made from wood or steel
• Rise – not to be confused with riser, this is the measurement from the top of one tread to the top of the next tread; this measurement, along with many others forms part of the building regulations needed on spiral staircases.
• Nosing – this is the front part the tread that overhangs the riser

Are building regulations for spiral staircases prohibitive?

No but it does take time to research to make sure the stairs are correct. Some areas of the UK have additional building regulation ‘rules’. Before you do anything, it is a prudent and wise move to check these details or, get it wrong, and you have wasted money and time on a staircase that will need to be demolished.

The idea behind these regulations is that spiral staircases are safe to use as the main stairway within Coatbridge properties. There are some consistency in the rules with spiral designs for example, and the traditional straight staircases that some customers opt for.

For example, there should be no gaps anywhere on the staircase, spiral or otherwise that are larger than 100mm or 4 inches.

In addition, if spiral staircases are to be used as the primary access between levels within your Coatbridge home, then there are a variety of measurements that need to be met, whilst these can be different if it the secondary staircase within your property.

Not sure what building regulations need to be met in your property when looking to replace or build new spiral staircases?

Continental Stairs can help you! With their range of experience within this specialist field, they can guide you making sure your spiral staircase is fit for purpose – as well as stunning!