Staircase Design and Installation

Stair building is one of the most complex aspects of carpentry.  Space problems are typically more critical in the foyer than any other part of a home.  Considering the overall size of the room will determine a comfortable rise and run of each step.  The ability to work with a variety of materials, custom and stock, a beautiful and comfortable staircase can be built-in most any space.

Staircases are typically rebuilt and changed more than any other part of a home because of poor planning and cutting corners when choosing materials.  If you're in need of a brand new staircase or need to repair an existing set of stairs, Earthgroup will work with you from concept to finish to executed the project according to the initial design, and to ensure you have the best quality staircase for your budget.

Any house built on more than one level has at least one staircase that serves as its vertical thoroughfare. There are, of course, many different kinds of stairs, differing by their materials, construction methods, general shape, design, and a number of other features. In most situations, a staircase is an integral part of the home's design and style. Stairs may be steep or gradual, narrow or wide, purely functional, or grand and showy. Some are built-in place by woodworkers, finish carpenters, or stair makers; others are factory manufactured, shipped to a building site, and installed by our carpenters.

A stair's design is heavily affected by its function. An entry stairway that handles all up-and-down foot traffic and is placed in a highly visible location is bound to be much grander than a stairway to a hardly ever used basement or where economy is imperative.

Regardless of type, all stairs have the same fundamental parts. It is how these parts are built and combined that gives a stairway its style and individuality. Of course, not all stairways have all of these parts—for example; some stairways have open risers (no risers).

Contemporary Staircases

Contemporary staircases are a mix of traditional style mixed with clean modern design.  Simple wooden slabs or planks stained custom colors will create a contemporary staircase with a warm and inviting feel.  Bamboo is also being used as an option for building materials.

Wrought iron and stainless steel are being used for an industrial and modern look.  Stainless steel and economical galvanized steel railing systems are modular design and require no welding or polishing.

Stainless steel can be paired with a stainless or wooden handrail. Galvanized steel is used to create custom paint colors and finishes.

Modern Staircases

When building a modern staircase one option to consider is a high-quality designer carpet that can withstand a high volume of traffic.  A pattern can create a new focal point to a

staircase if there is a prominent staircase in your home.  Laminate stair treads are also an option that gives your step a professional, finished look.  Laminate treads fit over the entire step and are more durable than hardwood steps.  They come in a variety of colors and designs to match any decor.

Traditional Staircases

Traditional staircase design covers a range of architectural styles.  Selecting a staircase design depends on the space available and the interior architecture of the home.  The choices and combination of stairs can be created with intricate wood detailing or straight functional lines.

Staircase Types

Straight Staircases: Straight staircases are the most typical and found in most homes.  These staircases can be built with a T-shaped or L-shaped landing to change direction.

Spiral Staircases: Spiral staircases are designed to fit into almost any small area.  The steps progress around a support pole in the center.

Circular Staircases: Circular staircases are similar in design to spiral staircases without a center support pole.  They can have very wide curves for a unique appearance.

Elliptical Staircases: Elliptical Staircases are a curved staircase that narrows at the top and bottom with a wider curve in the middle.

Freestanding Staircases: Any type of straight or curved staircase can be freestanding.  These are staircases that you can walk beneath.

Stairs are built according to basic rules and principles intended to make them safe to use. These rules, governed by building codes, stipulate the permissible heights of risers, depth and width of treads, placement of handrails, and similar concerns. Earthgroup does the leg work for you. We will pull any and all necessary permits and complete your project in a timely and affordable manner.

Deck Staircases: Considerably the most difficult part of building a deck, the stairs must be laid out to measure the exact height of the deck from the top of the decking to the location where the stairs are going to land on the ground. In cases where the stairs can land anywhere, it should be easy to design a stair set.  If you are trying to land in a specific position like the edge of a patio, you may need to manipulate your stair configuration or change the run distance by adding or subtracting landings or shifting the starting position for the stairs.

Tread Design: The returns of an open tread design can be seen from the open side of the staircase.  The balusters are typically installed on the stair tread surface.  Closed tread design has sides that cannot be seen from the open side of the staircase.  The balusters are typically installed to fit into the rail cap that rests on a short framed wall.

Balustrade Design: The balustrade consists of the balusters, newels, and handrail.  Size and style of your foyer and trim detail are important to consider when choosing your stair parts.

Materials: Architectural stairs and spiral staircases come in a variety of woods including oak, mahogany, maple and cherry.  They are also being constructed with steel, stainless steel, wrought iron, aluminum, and all materials can be mixed and matched to fit the design and functionality you want.

If you have a question staircase repairs, please call our office at: (773) 930-4533  email us at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or simply fill out an online estimate form for a free in-home consultation.