How to choose the right wooden stairs for home and business

The central role of stairs in everyday life

Stairs affect our daily lives in different and significant ways, from safety to comfort. The issue of safety is especially important in homes where there are children, or in a business where many customers pass through.

Comfort is measured in practical terms: the depth and height of the step that affect the size of our steps and the ease of going up/down, when ergonomic design ensures our comfort, safety and efficiency when moving on the stairs, along with their ease of maintenance.

We asked the wooden staircase experts of the Sharon Railings company to enrich our knowledge regarding the importance of stairs, their design, and to provide us with practical advice when we come to choose stairs.

Choosing the right tree - a combination of beauty and strengthThe choice of wood defines both the aesthetics and the longevity of the stairs. Among the popular types are the oak, maple and cherry with brown tones, which give a feeling of warmth and luxury to the home. Understanding the characteristics of each type of wood, its maintenance needs and cost helps to balance aesthetics, durability and your budget.

Combining materials - creating a unique aestheticCombining wood with materials such as glass, metal or stone turns the stairs into an amazing design element that affects the whole house. The combinations can be between a classic and modern look, high-tech or rustic, inspired by the latest design trends. Combining different materials and colors will give your stairs an artistic touch, alongside the functional one.

Color matchingWhen you come to plan your stairs, you must take into account the shades and colors of the space around them. Thus, for example, light wood can fit into any space, while African walnut, which has a dark and strong shade, can be more suitable for warm colors. When you choose the type of wood for the stairs - take into account the overall harmony of the shades in the space to ensure that the stairs complement its aesthetics.

Maintenance and longevityEvery wooden structure needs maintenance, as do the stairs. Remember that each type of tree has unique care instructions, and therefore it is essential to consult with professionals. Regular maintenance of the wood, avoiding its exposure to water and using protective coatings such as epoxy varnish are the key to the longevity of your wooden stairs.

Safety and strength standardsWooden stairs must meet the official standards for safety and strength. The installation process should be handled by experienced professionals to ensure maximum safety. Wooden stairs are an inherently strong structure, but some styles—like floating staircases—may require additional support, such as a heavy steel substructure.

Wooden stairs as coveringThe wood can also be used as a cover for existing concrete or metal stairs, which is an economical way to renovate the staircase and create a special aesthetic appearance.

Purchase considerationsBefore you come to order stairs, you must make an accurate measurement of the space where they will be installed, and of course - define your needs: are these domestic stairs that are used by the members of the household only to move between floors, or are they a business space where there is increased traffic of customers or employees , which means increased wear of the wood, and also the need to adjust the dimensions of the stairs for all audiences.

Be sure to choose a tree that has undergone proper processes of drying and protection against aging to ensure an improved appearance and minimal maintenance.

Issues to consider

Which design styles should you choose?As mentioned, wooden stairs come in diverse designs: from classic to rustic, from high-tech to vintage designs. These designs add an elegant and timeless touch to any entrance. However, some designs will not fit, for example, post-modern or industrial spaces.

What are the disadvantages of wooden stairs compared to stairs made of other materials?The tree is not suitable for humid or hot climates, and is more suitable for interior spaces. This is in contrast to metal stairs that are also suitable for an outdoor environment.

What maintenance is required to preserve the appearance of wooden stairs over time?As mentioned, wooden stairs require maintenance: every few years it is recommended to remove the top layer of paint/stain/lacquer of the wood and repaint it, including recoating a protective layer, this to maintain the natural and fresh look. In addition, it is recommended to prevent the wood from coming into contact with liquids or exposing it to moist areas.

What is the process of smoking the wood and what is its purpose?The smoking process includes drying the wood in an oven to determine its shade and improve its aesthetics and "health" - protection against woodworms and guaranteeing the quality of the wood for years.

How can the color of the wood be renewed?Renewing the color of the wood requires removing the existing layer of paint and repainting it in any shade you choose. To ensure quality results, it is better to use a professional, who will use a polishing machine.

Tips for preserving the tree for the long term

Maintaining the beauty and integrity of wooden stairs over time requires a combination of rules and methods. To ensure that your tree remains "like new" and in excellent condition, observe the following:

Adherence to these conservation tips will ensure the preservation of the beauty of your wooden stairs, and of course - their durability for years.

Choosing the right wooden stairs is a significant decision, as it concerns both the aesthetics of your home/business (certainly if you are looking for a representative space that conveys both luxury and good taste) and the durability of the stairs. Apart from the guidance we provided regarding the practical and design aspects of the stairs, the financial aspect must also be taken into account - the prices of the wooden stairs vary according to the type of wood, its combination with other materials, the style of the staircase, and more. The right choice, and the help of professionals, will help you complete your living and working space while perfectly combining your personal and professional taste.