Top Staircase Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Not Considering Storage Potential 

Stairs are often the centrepiece of a home, but a poorly designed staircase can be a source of frustration and even danger. In order to ensure that your stairs are well-designed and safe to use, it is important to be aware of the top staircase planning mistakes to avoid. 

One of the most common mistakes made when planning a staircase is not considering the storage potential that an extra set of steps can provide. Staircases often provide prime real estate for unique storage solutions, from built-in drawers and cupboards to cabinets and even bookcases. Even if you don’t need the extra space now, having it available allows for more flexible organisation down the road. The key is to make sure all of the components fit together well and make efficient use of the space.

Provision of Hand Rail at Proper Height 

Handrails are an essential component of any staircase, but they are often either placed too high or too low. The ideal height is around 36 inches from the nose of the step to the top of the railing. This allows the user to easily grip the rail without straining their arm. It is also important to make sure that the handrail extends all the way to the bottom step to maximise safety.

Not Thinking About Safety 

Another mistake that is often made with staircases is not thinking about safety. Many people fail to include important design elements such as slip-resistant treads or non-slip surfaces to ensure that the stairs remain safe for use, even in wet conditions. Other necessary components include ensuring that the stairs are properly lit and that there are no sharp edges or loose components that could cause injury.

Improper Headroom 

Headroom is an important consideration when designing stairs. The headroom should be at least 6 feet to allow for comfortable passage and to prevent any accidental banging of heads against the wall or ceiling. This is especially important in staircases with multiple landings or those that travel around corners.

Steep Slope of Stair 

Finally, one of the most overlooked aspects of staircase design is the steepness of the stairs. Staircases should contain a gentle slope that allows for comfortable travel up and down them. If the stairs are too steep, they can be difficult and even dangerous to use, especially for elderly persons or those with mobility issues. Ideally, the angle of the stairs should fall between 30 and 35 degrees, or approximately one foot vertically for every three feet horizontally.

In conclusion, when planning a staircase for a home it is important to consider the storage potential, provide a proper handrail height, think about safety measures, ensure adequate headroom and select a slope that is comfortable to use. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can rest assured that your final staircase design will be both beautiful and functional.