With many people renovating their existing properties rather than opting to move, a staircase which takes up less space for accessing new levels or rooms has never been a more popular feature. A spiral staircase can take up nearly half the room of a conventional straight flight staircase, whilst still providing a convenient means of ascent.
When looking to purchase a spiral, the first decision to make is whether a small kit staircase will be sufficient, or whether a larger more bespoke feature stair would be the better option. The kit staircases tend to be designed as secondary access staircases, for going up to a mezzanine level or a converted loft space. The largest kit spiral is likely to be around 1600mm total diameter. By contrast, bespoke spirals can be anything up to 3000mm overall diameter, and can be safely installed as the main staircase in a property. They also tend to have a wider range of materials available, such as different timbers or the option for stainless steel metalwork.
From a technical point of view, the most common error person searching for their first spiral make is in regards to the opening. The opening in the ceiling for a spiral should ideally exceed the total diameter of the stair being placed in it by 100mm. So, if a 1600mm diameter spiral is being installed, a circular opening of 1700mm or more would be necessary, allowing 50mm on either side of the staircase. This is to allow the 50mm “knuckle gap” as a person climbing the stair moves their hand along the handrail.
Spiral stairs are available to suit many budgets; kit ones can begin at £800 or so, whilst top of the line bespoke spirals, in oak or with stainless steel centre columns, can reach upwards of £9000. In general, if looking for a small secondary access stair, budgeting £1800-1900 should be sufficient unless it is passing over 3000mm in height, and for a main staircase, a budget of around £5000-6000 should cover the more popular options in terms of material and style.
To purchase a spiral, the important dimensions to know are:
- The floor to floor height
- The diameter of the staircase
- The dimensions of the opening in the ceiling (if applicable)
