Before you book
Questions we are asked before a survey
Honest answers to the things people want to know before they invite us round.
How long does a bespoke hardwood staircase take from order to fitting?
Allow six to ten weeks for most stairs. Drawing and approval take a week or two, the workshop builds it in three to five weeks, and fitting is two to four days on site. Simple straight flights can be quicker.
Can you replace my staircase without removing the ceiling above it?
Usually yes. Many stairs are built in sections and assembled on site, so the opening above does not need to change. If the new stair is a different shape or pitch, we will tell you at the survey what else is involved.
What timber do you recommend for a hallway staircase?
Oak is the sensible default. It wears well, takes oil or lacquer evenly and suits most period and modern homes. Ash is a good paler option, and walnut works if you want a darker, richer tone.
Do I need building regulations approval for a new staircase?
A replacement stair in the same position often does not need it, but a new stair for an extension or loft conversion does. We check this at the survey stage and can prepare the details your building control officer asks for.
Will the new staircase creak after it is fitted?
It should not. We glue and screw the treads and risers rather than relying on nails, and we fix the stringers into the structure properly. Timber does move with the seasons, so minor settling is normal, not a fault.
How much does a bespoke hardwood staircase cost?
Most of our stairs fall between £4,000 and £12,000, depending on size, timber and balustrade detail. We give a fixed written quote after the survey, with no charge for the visit or the estimate.