Hub
Staircase Types
Straight, winder, spiral, helical, space-saver and more, and how to choose the right type for your space.
Guides in this hub
Types of staircase: the main shapes, and how to choose
The main staircase types are straight, quarter-turn, half-turn, winder, spiral, helical and space-saver, with open or closed strings on each. The right one is driven by the space you have, the look you want and the budget.
Winder staircases: what they are and the rules that govern them
A winder staircase turns a corner on tapered treads instead of a flat landing. Here is how winders work, the two rules every winder has to keep, why four winders is a harder job than three, and when a landing is the better answer.
Space-saver (alternating tread) stairs: what they are and when you can have one
What a space-saver or alternating tread staircase is, when building regulations actually allow one, the trade-offs, and why it is a space and budget compromise rather than a premium upgrade.
Mono-stringer and central-spine staircases
A mono-stringer or central-spine staircase carries the treads on a single central beam instead of two side strings, giving a lighter, floating look. The spine can be steel or a thick timber beam, and the treads cantilever out to each side.
Cut string vs closed string staircase: the difference, and how to choose
A closed string staircase has a solid raking board on the outer edge that hides the ends of the treads, while a cut or open string has that edge cut to the step profile so the tread ends show. Closed is simpler and cheaper, cut is a feature with more joinery.
Cantilever (floating) staircases
A cantilever or floating staircase fixes each tread at one end only, usually built into the wall, so the treads appear to float with no support on the open side. The wall and a steel support carry the load, so it is a structural, engineered stair rather than standard joinery.
Open-riser staircases: what they are, and the rules that apply
An open-riser staircase has no solid board between the treads, leaving a gap for an open, modern look. The rules still apply: the gap must be small enough that a 100mm sphere cannot pass through, and in England the treads must overlap by at least 16mm.
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