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Installing safe Staircases in Family Homes

Staircases are an important part of our homes. Whether you want a contemporary design or a traditional style in an older property safe and functional stairs are essential in a family home. However this doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your dream staircase design.

A & T carpentry ahare their top tips for designing safe staircases for family homes that also look fabulous.

1. Staircase Building Regulations

In the UK there are strict rules and regulations for designing staircases, covered by legislation, such as the Approved Document K, which aims to protect home owners from falls.

When you work with A & T Carpentry, they’ll be able to talk you through the height and size requirements for each safety feature. This should reassure you about how safe the staircase is for younger and elderly family members.

1. Staircase Building Regulations

In the UK there are strict rules and regulations for designing staircases, covered by legislation, such as the Approved Document K, which aims to protect home owners from falls.

When you work with A & T Carpentry, they’ll be able to talk you through the height and size requirements for each safety feature. This should reassure you about how safe the staircase is for younger and elderly family members.

Family Sfae staircase

Contact A & T Carpentry

A & T Carpentry would love to hear about your project.  Why not tell them about your home decor project or renovation plans.  They are always on hand to offer free friendly advice and a competitive quotation.

2. Safety and Staircase Handrails

Handrails and bannisters are an essential element of modern staircases, and this is one of the ways you can provide extra safety measures to keep all of the family safe.

Whendesigning a handrail for your staircase, a strong and sturdy material must be used. It must also be shaped to allow for an easy grip. You may also want to try samples to find the best options for little hands.

Child's safety handrail

3. Safe Balustrades

Hallways and landings that look over stepped areas also need careful consideration. Balustrades provide an excellent safety barrier when approaching a staircase from the bottom or top. It is important to design keeping the family in mind. They come in many different styles and materials, including glass and wood. Glass is as safe as wooden components if installed professionally.

If you have a young  family, you may wish to used closed panelling rather than spindles for both the balustrade and sections connecting the base rail and bannister. This will reduce any potential hazzards in the home. However, if you want vertical spindles, designing them close together is a good idea to prevent falls.

Staircase safety balustrade

4. Closed Staircase Treads

Floating or open staircases are very modern and look stunning. However,  they could prove challenging for much younger children. In a family home, you may prefer to opt for a closed tread design. This will prevent the staircase from becoming a potential hazard.

You should also think carefully about the type of materials you choose for the treads. Solid timber looks beautiful but can be slippery in socks or slippers for youngsters.  If you really do want a wooden staircase in a family home with toddlers consider adding a runner or use timber features for other components of the design, such as panelling or handrails.

 

crawling up staircase safely

5. Staircase Storage Ideas

Family homes require plenty of stirage.  Have you considered using the area under a staircase for additional cupboards, drawers or bespoke storage? This can help keep  trip hazards like shoes and coats out of the way.

Speak with A & T Carpentry  about the possibilities on offer so that the design works for all the family, making your home as functional and as safe  as it can be.

 

Safe staircase storage

Contact A & T Carpentry

A & T Carpentry would love to hear about your project.  Why not tell them about your home decor project or renovation plans.  They are always on hand to offer free friendly advice and a competitive quotation.