by A staircase is an integral part of any kind of building, be it residential or commercial. When designing a staircase, the creative process of functionality, form, and selecting the right materials is extremely important. The material of your staircase should be structurally sound, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing.
Architecturally, there are two main contenders – metal and concrete. There are a number of things that make the metal staircase a better choice than concrete. Let’s look at more details about using fabricated metal staircase for home construction.
Advantages of Fabricated Staircase
1. Strength & Durability
Metal is one of the strongest materials. Alloys are resistant to all kinds of external stress including mechanical shock, exposure to corrosive substances, and temperature fluctuations. Metal stairs will not lose their shape, they will not crack, warp, or rot. They can be manufactured from any type of metal – from stainless steel to aluminum.
2. Versatility
Metal stairs can take any form in the hands of a skillful master and make the staircase an original interior accent. The design possibilities are endless. This type of staircase will blend in simple, elegant, traditional, or modern exterior and interior designs. In addition, you can have a custom-designed staircase and choose from a variety of shapes and sizes. Due to the high flexibility of the material, it can be cut and welded in numerous designs and patterns. For example, spiral, straight or curved designs, simple, ornate, and elaborate designs anything that meets the personal requirements of the homeowner. Metals can be combined with any other material so that it works with the overall concept of the exterior or the interior of the room.
3. Installation and Maintenance
Metal stairs are easy to install which keeps the cost for construction lower compared to staircases from alternative materials. Due to the incredible durability of materials, such staircases do not deform. Also, this will not require repairs during its lifetime. There is no need to seal, varnish, or paint a metallic staircase every year to maintain its good appearance. All you need to do is to promptly remove dust and examine for damages to the coating.
4. Safety and Security
Compared to other types of steps, metal stairs are safer as they are less slippery. Even in the event of a slip, the landing may feel softer than landing on concrete, for example. Of course, stair railings are a necessity for support and preventing falls.
5. Space Saving
Metal stairs can be space-saving, this is especially valid for spiral staircases as they are the perfect design for tight spaces. You can have a functional spiral staircase without compromising the aesthetic appearance and the design style of your home.
6. Environmental Friendliness
This is a very big advantage of metal stairs as the material can be recycled. Resource and Nature preservation are a serious concern for many people. So, choosing metal stairs is an environmentally conscious decision.
In general, metal staircases have the following functionalities:
- high durability
- withstand heavy loads
- resistant to harsh weather conditions
- low maintenance
- lower cost compared to staircases made from alternative materials
- easy to install
- metals work in harmony with many other materials
- A variety of types and shapes, suitable for many design styles
- metal stairs do not creak
- long service life
Disadvantages of Fabricated Staircase
1. Corrosion
Corrosion is one of the major concerns of people and it can appear even if the staircase is treated and protected with a special coating. This problem usually occurs in outdoor staircases. Choosing high-quality material will make sure that you will not have worries and your staircase will not suffer rust. Keep in mind that metal stairs made of iron or bronze may change color in time. To preserve their appearance, you need to coat them with protective sealants. This will increase maintenance costs. In addition, treating a metallic staircase is a laborious process. Because, the metal should be sanded with sandpaper, a primer must be applied, and after the primer is completely dry, apply a protective coat of paint.
2. Noise
Noise is, probably, the biggest disadvantage of metal stairs. When walking on the steps the noise can be loud and unpleasant.
3. Cost
Custom made metal stairs in various decorative styles will have higher prices. The more decorative elements, the higher the cost, and depending on the complexity of design and installation, the price tag of these staircases can be significantly higher compared to the other staircase.
5. Installation Problems
Installation problems may occur if you have not considered the dimensions of your staircase. This is a typical problem with interior staircases, so you need to consider how the staircase will come into the building. It is necessary that bulky structures do not damage walls, doors, or other elements of your home in the process of installation.
Hence, the benefits of using fabricated staircase is quite higher compared to the drawbacks. So, metal staircase is a go-to option for house construction.
If you have anything to add, please mention in the comments section.