10 Helpful Hints for Spiral Staircase Installation

When installing a new staircase, there are many things you have to take into consideration before getting started that will help to make the process easy and seamless. Whether you are completely removing and replacing your stairs or making some simple adjustments, the following helpful hints will help you along the way.

1. Plan. It is important to know what you want to do with your stairs before you get started. Plan out what the stairs will look like, and what work needs to be done to make that happen. Are you removing all of your original stairs? What walls will be affected by the renovation? How will you cover the original floor?

2. Learn. Knowing the basics of a staircase will get you far in the installation process. You should be able to distinguish between treads and railings and understand how the base of the stairs supports the entire staircase. It could also be helpful to look for spiral staircase kits that provide everything you need to make the process smooth and more efficient.

3. Tidy Up. To minimize mess, have everything in your house covered and protected. This will minimize the damage to your valuables and make it easier to work on the installation. If at all possible, try to limit the amount of sawing and actual building of the staircase that is done indoors. The more you can do outdoors, the easier it will be to clean up after the installation.

4. Be Prepared. Be prepared for hiccups and challenges throughout the staircase installation process. Have extra materials handy in case something goes wrong, or try to plan and have the extra help when you know you will need it to make things move along more quickly.

5. Measuring. Having all of your measurements and numbers lined up is critical for a staircase installation. Not only for the aesthetic value but the safety and security of the staircase has to handle daily traffic.

6. Filling Spaces. When the staircase is built and installed, go through and make sure no nails are protruding from the stairs, and that any holes with screws are filled up and even with the stair surface. This should be done before any stain or paint or carpeting is added.

7. Railings. It is important to make sure that the railings fit and are secure with the staircase. Not only do the stairs themselves have to support enormous amounts of weight, so does the railing. The railing is the support system of the staircase and its proper installation is just as important.

8. Moldings. Decorative moldings at the base of the steps and around the stairs will help to make your staircase look “complete” and finished. This should be one of the final touches to your stairs and is typically the easiest step.

9. Staining. With your new staircase installed, you can begin staining and painting the stairs to your liking. You can match the rest of the finishes throughout the house, or completely transform the decor by painting something bolder.

10. Finishing Touches. When all is said and done, make sure to do a quick run-through to ensure there are no loose ends or mess. It might help to leave the stairs for several hours or overnight and then return to them to see what finishing touches might need to be done.