Wooden stairs are a popular choice for many homeowners and designers because of their natural beauty and warmth. The variety of wood species, colours, and grains available allows for a wide range of design options, from rustic to modern.
But what is the best wood for stair components? In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know.
What are the different types of stair components?
Wooden stair components come in various shapes and sizes, each serving a specific purpose in the construction of a staircase. Below is an overview of stair parts, their function and common wooden materials:
Stair components | Function | Material |
Spindles
| Vertical posts that support the handrail of a staircase. | Often made from oak, mahogany, and maple. |
Handrails | Essential components that provide support and stability when climbing or descending stairs. They also add to the overall aesthetic of your staircase. | Often made from oak, pine and walnut. |
Newel Posts | Large, vertical posts that are located at the bottom and top of a staircase, as well as at points where the staircase changes direction. They provide structural support for the staircase, and they also serve as a decorative feature. | Often made from ash, oak, pine and walnut. |
Bullnose Steps | Designed to provide a smooth and rounded edge to the bottom step of a staircase. They offer a safe and aesthetically pleasing transition from the staircase to the floor, and can also add a touch of elegance to the overall design of the staircase. | Typically made from hardwoods such as oak or walnut. |
Treads and Risers | The horizontal parts of the stairs that you step on when climbing or descending. | Made from a variety of wooden materials, including hardwoods such as oak, ash, and walnut, as well as softwoods like pine. |
Stair Stringer | Board that runs along one or both sides of a staircase. It serves as the structural support for the stair treads and risers, which are attached to it. | Often made from pine, ash, walnut, oak, and hemlock. |
Base Rail | It serves as a support for spindles or panels, which are fixed into or onto it. The rail is typically supported at either end by newel posts. | Usually made from walnut, oak, and pine. |
How do I choose the right wood for stair components?
Choosing the right wood requires considering several factors:
Aesthetic appeal: Do you want a light or dark colour, a consistent or varied grain pattern, or a particular texture or sheen?
Strength and durability: Stair components need to be able to support the weight of people using the stairs. Thus, you should choose a species that is strong enough and won’t warp or crack over time.
Indoor and outdoor conditions: Different environments can have a significant impact on the durability and appearance of the wood, so it’s essential to choose a species that is appropriate for the specific application.
What are the pros and cons of using hardwood vs. softwood for stair components?
When it comes to choosing the right wood for your stair components, you must consider the properties of hardwoods and softwoods. Both of these types of wood have their own unique advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of using hardwood
By choosing hardwood, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits, such as durability, strength, and a luxurious appearance that can add value to any property. Hardwood can withstand heavy foot traffic and last for years with minimal maintenance. This means fewer replacements and repairs in the long run, saving you time and money. Thus, hardwood stair components are a practical choice for staircases in busy households or commercial spaces.
Cons of using hardwood
One of the main cons of using hardwood is its cost. Hardwood is typically more expensive than softwood, which can make it a less budget-friendly option for some projects. In addition, it can be more difficult to work with than softwood due to its density and hardness. This can make cutting and shaping the wood more challenging and time-consuming.
Pros of using softwood
On the other hand, softwood is a highly versatile and cost-effective option that offers easy workability and can be stained or painted to complement any design style. Its affordability, versatility, and eco-friendliness are just a few reasons why softwood is an excellent choice for stair components.
Cons of using softwood
Softwood is less dense than other types of wood, which can make it weaker and less durable. While some species can still be hard and durable, their lightweight properties can sometimes have a negative impact. In addition, softwood isn’t as resistant to rot, decay, denting, and scratches as hardwood. This means that extra care and attention may be needed to keep softwood furniture in good condition.
What are the most popular wood species used for stair components?
Taking into consideration the previous aspects, some species are regarded as the best for stair components. Here are the most popular ones:
Oak
Oak is a highly sought-after hardwood species that offers numerous advantages for stair components. One of the most notable benefits is its durability and longevity, as it’s known for being resistant to wear and tear.
Additionally, oak comes in a range of attractive colours, from blonde to dark tones, and has a distinctive and pronounced grain that adds character to any staircase. With no knots, oak works seamlessly with contrasting materials, creating a sleek and polished look. Oak is also an excellent choice for staining and showcasing the natural beauty of timber while being resistant to dents and scratches, ensuring your staircase looks great for years to come.
Ash
Ash is another popular hardwood species that is a great choice for stair components. Its colour ranges from pale white to light brown. It has a straight, consistent grain pattern that gives it a modern look. Ash is also known for its high shock resistance, which means it can withstand heavy impact and pressure without denting or cracking. This makes it an ideal choice for busy households with high foot traffic.
Moreover, ash is easy to work with, making it a popular choice for contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike. Its fine texture also allows for a smooth finish and a great surface for staining or painting. Overall, ash is a great option if you want durable and visually appealing wood for your stair components.
Walnut
This premium hardwood adds a touch of elegance and luxury to any staircase. Its unique dark brown colour with rich undertones and beautiful grain patterns make it a popular choice for high-end homes and commercial properties.
Walnut is also highly resistant to dents and scratches. Its density and strength make it ideal for stair treads, risers, and spindles, ensuring that your staircase will last for generations to come.
Pine
Pine is a budget-friendly and strong softwood that is popular for stair components. Its close and straight grain, along with attractive knots, add character to the wood, which ranges in colour from light beige to yellow.
Although pine may show signs of wear and tear over time, it’s still a durable option for those who want a cost-effective solution for their stair components. Pine is also versatile and adapts to a wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary. Thus, it offers an affordable and visually appealing choice for your staircase project.
What are the top ways to care for and maintain wooden staircase components?
No matter which wood you choose for your staircase, it’s crucial to care for it properly. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential, as is avoiding harsh cleaning products that can damage the wood’s finish. In addition, be sure to address any scratches or dents as soon as they occur to prevent them from becoming more severe over time.
Here are some tips to keep your wooden staircase parts clean and well-maintained:
Start by using a vacuum cleaner with a small nozzle attachment to remove any dust or debris that has accumulated on the treads, handrail, base rail, and spindles.
For hard-to-reach areas or dried spills, use a soft, clean cloth soaked in a solution of warm water and wood cleaner or mild detergent.
Remember to wring out the cloth before use and wipe with a dry, lint-free cloth to remove any excess moisture.
Repeat this process every four to six weeks to prevent buildup and maintain the natural beauty of your wooden stairs.
How Proboard can help you
Looking to construct a high-quality staircase without breaking the bank? Proboard has got you covered with our top-quality Pine Stair Components and Oak Stair Components.
Our pine stair components are made from solid joinery grade timber, laminated for increased stability, and cost-efficient solutions, so you can trust the quality of our products. In addition, our oak stair parts are a reliable and budget-friendly solution, especially in today's market, where the scarcity of oak raw materials has led to skyrocketing prices.
We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service and prompt delivery to meet all of your staircase design needs.
Don’t compromise on quality - choose Proboard for your next staircase project. Contact us today.