What You Need To Know Before Starting A Staircase Renovation Project

21 February 2023 | Construction, General

How do I update my stairs UK?

The staircase of your home deserves proper care and consideration, as it is one of the most visible areas. A vintage-looking or run-down staircase can not only look unsightly, but can also result in a decrease in the value of your property.

Unfortunately, a complete renovation may not be realistic depending on the budget, which is often the case when first moving into a house and having already spent a majority of the money you have. If seeking a cost-friendly way to spruce up your staircase, here are a few ideas to explore.

Replacing aged balusters or spindles with more contemporary ones can really transform the appearance of your staircase with minimal disruption.

Revamping Your Staircase: Unlock the Hidden Magic in Your Home with Metal, Glass, and DIY Renovations

For older staircases, you may opt to add a metallic element, such as black metal spindles, which can significantly change the look of your staircase and make a bold statement.

You should also consider replacing wooden balustrades with glass ones, which will modernize your home and allow more light to flow through your house.

Changing the handrail, lower rail, and newel post caps can give your stairs a whole new look, and the job doesn’t have to be very disruptive. If you like doing your own home repairs and are willing to learn about the components and how they come together, you can do the work yourself and save money.

Revive Your Staircase with Wooden Treads: A Modern and Lasting Transformation

As an alternative to covering the natural lumber of your stairwell with an out-of-style and weathered stair carpet, perhaps you should think about investing in wooden treads. This creates a stunning effect which can suit either a modern or a traditional look.

To ensure the longevity of the stairs, one should consider treating the wood with hard wax oils. This will also bring out the intrinsic beauty of the wood.

Offering the possibility of a complete transformation, reviving your staircase is a great way to modernize it. A variety of colors can be utilized, such as black and white, to really make a statement.

The best practice here is to first sand down the surfaces and use a primer to make sure the end result is resistant and long-lasting. This is a prime opportunity to make a bold and fashionable impression in your home.

Transform Your Stairway – Revive, Refresh, & Rejuvenate with Carpet & Wood

Rather than just being a platform for your feet, why not incorporate treads into the overall design of your staircase? Cladding existing risers and treads with new materials is cost-effective and can bring a fresh look to your stairway without the need for full replacement.

Most of the time, simply laying the new treads on top of the old ones is all that is required.

Rather than revealing the wood on your staircase, you can give it a facelift by replacing your existing carpet with a new one or covering the wooden treads with it.

Transform the Forgotten Space Under Your Stairs Into Something Special

If you would like to combine carpet and wood, you could install a modern runner down the middle and then treat the wooden parts to your liking on either side.

The cost of this depends on what you decide to choose, but if you opt for a well-made carpet with a robust underlay, it will be worth it in the long run.

Often, the space under the stairs is neglected when making renovations. This is likely due to its small size and being filled with items such as cabinets or shoes and jackets. However, you can use some imagination and ingenuity to turn that area into something that adds value to your home.

Can you change a staircase UK?

Under the UK Building Regulations, there is a clause which gives replacement staircases a pass from having to meet certain measures.

Legally, the Building Regulations of England and Wales dictate that any modification to a building which affects its construction, fire safety and evacuation, and disabled access/utility must abide by said regulations.

If the existing stair adhered to the aforementioned characteristics, the new one must do so as well. For staircases that lack compliance, the updated design cannot be any less suitable.

Do you need planning permission to change a staircase?

Generally, you do not need to get approval from your local council to switch the position of your stairs. As long as the external appearance of your home is not altered, you will just need to file a request with the building regulations.

How difficult is it to change a staircase?

Altering your staircase may not seem like a realistic task, but many staircases are only assembled pieces of joinery.

Therefore, it is often simpler to make alterations or totally redo the structure than you would expect.

Movement and circulation around most dwellings are largely dependent on the staircase, and often a stale, oppressive design can be alleviated by simply shifting its position, direction, or even its setup.

How much does it cost to rebuild a staircase UK?

The prices associated with installing a new stairway in the United Kingdom normally range from 1,500 to 4,000 pounds, which accounts for the building and disposal of your previous stairs.

If you are hoping to have a more custom design, you may have to pay around 5,000 to 50,000 pounds, depending on the specifics. The cost you incur might be determined by factors such as the size, materials, complexity, and other specifications.

In addition to this, the amount may also increase if there needs to be any modifications to the surrounding area of the stairwell, or if other accessories must be included.

Do new stairs add value to a house?

The introduction to your house starts right at the point where people enter – your entry. To make a good initial impression, a carefully planned and crafted staircase is an essential element. Conversely, any outdated, shabby, or insecure stairs will hinder the likelihood of your house being chosen.

 

Author

  • Danielle Stone

    She has been writing professionally for 8 years, with articles published in various print and online publications. She is an avid researcher and strives to bring her readers the most up-to-date information and insights on the topics she covers. Danielle is also an expert on home renovation, interior design and construction, and she loves helping homeowners turn their dreams into realities. When she’s not writing or editing, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, gardening and exploring nature.

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