Changing a staircase in a home in the UK is certainly possible, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. The regulations around staircase design, safety, and construction can be complex, so it’s essential to understand the building codes and get the proper permissions before undertaking a staircase remodel. With careful planning and by working with the right contractor, it’s possible to successfully transform an existing staircase to meet your needs and comply with UK building regulations.
Why Would You Want to Change a Staircase?
There are many reasons homeowners may wish to remodel or change their existing staircase:
- To update the look and style of the stairs
- To improve safety by adjusting tread depth, riser height, or adding a handrail
- To meet accessibility needs by adding a stair lift or wider design
- To create an open-concept floorplan by removing walls around a staircase
- To allow access to a loft conversion or extension
- To adjust the direction of the staircase
- To make the stairs less steep
- To repair damaged or worn stairs
Whatever the motivation, changing a staircase is a major home improvement project that requires careful planning and execution. The staircase is an important architectural feature and impacts the safety and functionality of the home, so any modifications need to be done correctly.
Building Regulations for Staircases in the UK
In the UK, staircases in homes and domestic settings need to comply with certain building regulations and safety standards. The key regulations include:
- Approved Document K – Protection from falling, collision and impact
- Approved Document M – Access to and use of buildings
- Approved Document B – Fire safety
- Approved Document E – Resistance to the passage of sound
These regulations stipulate requirements such as:
- Minimum and maximum measurements for steps – step height should be between 150mm and 220mm and step depth should be between 220mm and 300mm
- Headroom – there must be a minimum of 2m clear headroom above the pitch line of the stairs
- Handrails – stairs wider than 1m require a handrail on both sides
- Landings – stairs should have a landing at the top and bottom, sized correctly
- Lighting – adequate lighting must be provided, especially on the top and bottom steps
- Smoke alarms – stairs must have interlinked smoke alarms installed
The regulations aim to minimise the risk of falls and injuries on stairs. When planning staircase alterations, the new design needs to meet these stair safety standards. The depth and width of treads, height of risers, banister design, and other factors need to be within the accepted guidelines and limits.
Planning Permission for Staircase Changes
In some cases, planning permission may be required to alter a staircase under Permitted Development Rights in England and Wales. This will depend on the extent of the work planned. For example, planning permission may be needed if:
- The work extends beyond the current footprint of the building
- You live in a listed building
- The building is in a designated conservation area
- You plan to add a new staircase where one didn’t exist before
In Scotland, staircase alterations are subject to regulation under the building standards system, which has some differences to the rest of the UK. It’s best to check with your local council planning department to determine if your planned staircase remodel requires permission.
Building Control Approval
To ensure any staircase remodel meets Building Regulations, it’s a good idea to obtain Building Control approval. This involves having building control inspectors review plans and inspect the work. They will check that the finished stairs:
- Are adequately supported
- Have correct headroom, dimensions and other measurements
- Provide safety features like handrails
- Use appropriate materials and construction methods
- Meet fire safety and access standards
Building control approval helps ensure the remodelled staircase is compliant, safe and fit for purpose. There is a cost involved with building control services, but this provides important peace of mind that your staircase meets regulations.
Converting Between Staircase Types
There are several types of staircases, and it may be possible to convert between them:
Straight Stairs
Straight stairs have no turns and simply run between floors in a straight line. They take up minimal floor space but can be quite steep.
Half Turn Stairs
As the name suggests, this type of staircase turns 180 degrees and runs along two walls. The turn makes them less steep than straight designs.
Quarter Turn Stairs
Quarter turn stairs have a 90 degree turn and typically run between three walls. This design is more compact than half turn stairs.
L Shaped Stairs
L shaped stairs turn 90 degrees along two perpendicular walls. They have a larger footprint than quarter turn but allow less steep designs.
Spiral Stairs
Spiral stairs curve in a circular form and are extremely space efficient. However, they can be tricky to navigate.
U Shaped Stairs
Featuring two parallel flights joined by a landing that turns 180 degrees, U shaped stairs double back on themselves.
In some cases it may be possible to change from one staircase type to another during a remodel, but there are limitations. Converting to spiral stairs or an extremely different shape could be difficult without major structural changes.
Staircase Design Considerations
Here are some key considerations when redesigning and changing a staircase:
Space and Dimensions
Consider the available space – is there room to expand or change the footprint of the stairs if needed? Measure the rise and going of the current steps to understand options.
Existing Structure
Assess how the current stairs are supported and integrated structurally. This will impact how they can be altered.
Building Use
Factor in how the building is used – does the staircase need to accommodate high traffic, children, elderly occupants or disabilities?
Safety Standards
Review building regulations and ensure the new design meets tread, riser, balustrade and handrail requirements.
Aesthetics
Pick attractive, on-theme materials, finishes and colours that complement the decor of the home.
Natural Lighting
Consider how to light the new staircase naturally with windows, skylights or lightwells.
Artificial Lighting
Well-positioned energy efficient light fittings are essential, especially near the top and bottom steps.
Accessibility
Factor in the needs of children, the elderly and those with reduced mobility when planning stair dimensions.
Getting an expert staircase designer involved early in the process can help explore options, overcome challenges and create the ideal stairs for your situation.
Staircase Remodel Options
There are several options when remodeling a staircase:
Staircase Widening
Widening the staircase by altering the position of the strings (sides) allows safer and more spacious stairs without necessarily changing the overall footprint. It can also allow a handrail to be added.
Step Replacement
Replacing damaged, worn or outdated steps with new materials can give a staircase a whole new look and feel.
Step Pitch Alteration
Adjusting the pitch, usually by lowering the riser height, can make stairs less steep and safer to use.
Newel Post Changes
Updating newel posts and balusters provides an easy way to change the style and appearance of railings.
Balustrade Replacement
A total balustrade replacement with new handrails, base rails and balusters can modernise dated stairs.
Step Repositioning
It may be possible to reposition steps slightly to improve headroom under landings above or increase tread depths.
Staircase Relocation
For more extensive projects, the entire staircase can be moved to a different position within the plan.
A professional staircase company will be able to survey your existing setup and advise on feasible alteration options.
Staircase Repair and Refurbishment
As an alternative to completely changing a staircase, a repair and refurbishment can be a cost-effective solution. Potential repair jobs include:
- Replacing damaged or rotten timbers
- Reinforcing newel posts and handrails
- Regluing loose joints
- Replacing worn or missing balusters
- Repairing damaged stringboards
- Filling cracks and holes
- Sanding and revarnishing wood
- Painting rails and strings
- Replacing carpet, vinyl or other floor finishes
- Regrouting tiles
Repairs not only improve appearance but also the safety of the staircase. They can extend the lifespan of an existing staircase cost-effectively.
New Staircase Costs
Changing a whole staircase or building a completely new one typically costs between £2,000 and £7,000 including materials and professional installation. Factors affecting the cost include:
- Staircase design – straight stairs are cheaper than more complex shapes
- Number of steps
- Type of materials and finishes
- Structural work needed
- Removal and disposal of the old stairs
- Whether new balustrades or handrails are needed
- Any repairs required to walls, ceilings and floors
Getting quotes from several stair builders is the best way to get an accurate estimate. Comparing prices will help find a high-quality staircase solution that fits your budget.
DIY Staircase Installation
While it is technically possible to change a staircase yourself as a DIY project, there are some important risks and challenges to consider:
- Safety is paramount – mistakes could lead to injuries from falls or improperly supported stairs collapsing
- Achieving compliance with UK building regulations requires expertise in stair design
- Structural alterations need to be done right to avoid expensive problems down the line
- Tools like concrete cutters or timber planers require skill and experience to operate safely
- Removing and disposing of an old staircase is labour-intensive and often requires two people
- Building control approval will require doing the work to code standards
For most homeowners without specialist stair experience, hiring a qualified and insured staircase professional is recommended.
Hiring a Staircase Specialist
Due to the complexities of safely changing a staircase, it’s advisable to hire a specialist company. Look for an experienced staircase designer or carpenter able to handle your project from initial survey and design through to complete installation. Benefits of using a professional include:
- Experience designing stairs that meet regulations
- Access to required tools and materials
- Knowledge of structural load requirements
- Skills to remove and dispose of old stairs
- Ability to identify potential issues and solutions
- Attention to detail on exact stair measurements
- High quality workmanship for structural integrity
- Insurance coverage
When getting quotes, ask to see examples of previous staircase projects and check reviews. A reputable company should also provide certified training and accreditation credentials.
Timeline for Staircase Remodeling
The time it takes to fully remodel or change a staircase depends on factors like the scale of the project and design complexities. However, you can expect roughly this timeline:
- Design phase – 1-2 weeks to survey, design options, finalise plans, attain permissions
- Removal – 1-3 days to dismantle and remove old staircase
- Construction – 1-4 weeks for new staircase building work
- Finishing – 3-7 days for installation of balustrades, railings, flooring
- Inspection – 1-2 days for building control approval
So in total, expect a staircase remodel to take anywhere from 3 weeks to 2 months depending on the scale.
Be sure to factor in potential delays if additional structural work needs to be completed before the new stairs can be installed.
Staircase Design Ideas
Some popular staircase design ideas to consider for your remodel include:
Open Riser Stairs
Open riser stairs without backs look lightweight and contemporary. They work with a minimalist, modern decor.
Glass Balustrade
Using toughened glass panels in the balustrade creates a light, spacious effect. LED lights can also be integrated.
Timber Stairs
Classic hardwood timber options like oak complement traditional and rustic interiors well.
Spiral Staircase
Saving floor space in style, a metal spiral staircase makes a striking centrepiece.
Curved Stairs
For a fluid, sculptural look, curved and rounded stairs make a statement.
Stone Steps
Natural stone materials like granite, limestone or slate provide an elegant, quality feel underfoot.
Glass Steps
Including glass treads or side panels allows more light through in a modern, minimalist way.
Stainless Steel
A sleek, contemporary stainless steel staircase makes a ultimate modern design feature.
Hidden Storage
Integrating drawers, cabinets and other storage under the staircase maximises available space.
Use Pinterest, Instagram, home interior magazines and showhome visits to gather inspiration for your perfect staircase style.
Conclusion
Remodeling or installing a new staircase in your UK home is a complex process requiring in-depth planning and compliance with regulations. But creative staircase design can help transform your home’s style and functionality for the better. By hiring a knowledgeable staircase company and clearly communicating your vision, it’s possible to achieve stunning, compliant results that meet your needs within budget. Just be sure to get all necessary permissions first and keep safety top priority throughout your staircase project.