STAIR BALUSTRADE:

What is the typical installation time for a flight of stair balustrade?

For a staircase and a landing we generally suggest that this can be installed in 2 working days. For more complex systems such as continuous handrail or larger staircases this may be increased. Finishing can often take as long as installation of the parts. If this is an issue we recommend you consider pre finished ranges such as Axxys.

What tools are required to install balustrade?

No specialist tools are required although the job will be much easier and quicker with a mitre saw to cut the rails and spindles. Probably the most time consuming element will be housing out the newel bases. This is done most quickly with a router however this can also be accomplished by carefully chiselling out the base to suit. 

What are the UK Building Regulations regarding stair balustrade?

There are different regulations depending on who uses the staircase.  For domestic installations handrails must meet a minimum 900mm height above the pitch line, the balustrade must not allow a 100mm sphere to pass through it and the balustrade must be capable of taking certain loadings. Our installation instructions are written to ensure that your balustrade is installed to meet regulations. Depending on where the stairs are situated there are different regulations covering their design.  For domestic stairs a maximum rise of 220mm, a minimum go of 220mm and a maximimum pitch of 42 degrees are required.  For semi commercial stairs (usually defined as shared stairs in apartment blocks, offices and hotels), a maximum rise of 190mm, minimum go of 250mm and a maximum pitch of 38 degrees are stipulated.

How do I calculate the number of spindles I need for my project?

To work out the quantity required for the staircase first count the number of treads and the number of newels on the rake. Multiply the number of treads by two and then subtract the number of newels.For example, a 12 tread staircase with a bottom newel, an intermediate newel on a half landing and a top newel would need (12 treads x 2 = 24, minus 3 (number of newels) = 21). To calculate the amount of spindles required for the landing, first measure the length of the balustrade run on the landing. Then divide by 114mm for 32mm spindles and 122mm for 41mm spindles. This will give you a spacing that will meet the 100mm gap rule.  When installing the spindles always make sure you check that you meet this requirement.

What Type of Balustrade Should be Used in Commercial Situations?

There are different types of requirement depending on the usage of the staircase in commercial situations. Stairs classed as semi public are those where the staircase is open to the general public but a substantial number of people are not likely to gather. Examples include hotel staircases and office stairs. These systems must meet a minimum 1100mm above the pitch line on both landing and staircase and the longer 1100mm spindle is used to acheive this.  In addition increased strength requirements are stipulated.  For these situations we recommend the use of either our oak or ash systems or our Warwick range.   We do not recommend the use of either of our softwood ranges as these would need meet the strength requirements. Institutional or Assembly stairs are those where a substantial number of people may gather, such as department stores or nightclubs etc. In these cases specialist metal systems should be used, no normal timber system from any supplier is likely to comply.  Joinery Store does not currently offer such systems.