A mezzanine is a floor built between two main floors of a building, typically above another room. Mezzanines are great design options to add more spaces that can be used as a working area, storage space, or even a library.
Choosing the right stairway for your mezzanine is not as simple as just going out and buying one. There are several factors you need to consider before you make your decision. You have to keep in mind your mezzanine design when getting the staircase, among other things.
Besides, it can be quite difficult to choose from the variety of staircases available today. So, before you go shopping, here are a few things that you must keep in mind to ensure you get the right staircase for your mezzanine.
- Choose Within Your Budget
Every project starts with planning around a budget. Get a reasonable budget for your staircase. Your budget will determine the style, size, balustrade, and construction materials you need for your stairs.
You can start by finding the type of staircase you like and getting a quote. However, you should know that different materials and designs will come at different costs. Do your research by consulting experts for guidance.
Knowing the cost will help you make realistic decisions on the features that are compulsory and the ones you can compromise on to secure a good staircase based on your budget. A reasonable budget will have you prepared for all the expenses that are likely to come.
- Adhere To Building Regulations
Building regulations vary for each country, region, and city, depending on the type of construction project. Ensure you adhere to the mezzanine stairs regulations and the local building regulations too. You can easily achieve a safe and quality staircase as the present building regulations are made for the people’s safety.
However, to be on the safe side, you should check with your local building officials to get all the necessary information about laws on the maximum pitch for the staircase, depth and height of the risers, minimum height of the balustrade, and distance between balustrade railings.
You’ll also need information concerning the maximum number of steps before the landing, relevant fire regulations, maximum and minimum width of staircases, and more. Aside from getting this information, you’ll also need to consider all these before committing to a purchase and finishing details.
- Consider The Space
Look closely at the space available, as this is one of the major factors that will determine the style you select. The shape and layout of your mezzanine staircase depend on the space available.
Straight, spiral or L-shape staircases will fit a tiny space. If you have ample space, you can opt for staircases that are U-shaped, curved, helical, or others that can’t fit into a small space.
If your space can’t accommodate the type of staircase you want, your designer can help you with a combination staircase design that will have a bit of what you want, or find a mezzanine staircase that can give an illusion of more space. For instance, you can combine straight and spiral stairs to fit into a small space. No matter how small, you can have a functional staircase that can fit perfectly in your home.
- Functionality And Practicality
This is a very vital consideration for choosing the right staircase. The functionality and practicality refer to the application of the stairs. Consider the number of people using the stairs and the purpose.
If you’re going for a library or storage room for your mezzanine, a suitable staircase will be one with a wide space as bulky items may be carried up the route. However, if the area leads to your bedroom, you can go for stairs with an average width.
On the other hand, if you want to put comfort first, you should go for wide stairs with a less steep climb. When thinking about the people using the stairs, don’t go for spiral or circular stairs as these are pretty hard to climb. You can simply go for large stairs for ease of going up and down. However, all stairs serve to provide access to the mezzanine floor, but as the functions differ, so does the style.
- Safety Is Paramount
The need to be safe can’t be overemphasized. The principal function of stairs is to provide you with secure access between floors. It’s critical to consider safety; don’t just build for aesthetical purposes. With a safe staircase, you can significantly minimize the risks of potential falls.
The safest stairs to go for is one with a handrail and balustrades strong enough to support whoever is gripping or leaning on them. Creating designs that keep you safe doesn’t have to be boring. Handrails and balustrades will add a great ornamental and stylish design to your staircase.
Ensure the handrails aren’t jagged, and soften the edges to prevent common body injuries. If children and the elderly are involved, consider the ease of climbing the stairs by not making these too high. Ensuring your family’s safety should be the priority when choosing the right staircase for your mezzanine.
- Use Sturdy Materials
Bear in mind that the strength of the material used is essential, probably more than the beauty of the staircase. The material you use will affect the durability, safety, and feel of the stairs.
Ensure that your material is sturdy and can carry the weight on it. It’s vital to understand what material will suit different staircase applications. There are different kinds of materials used to construct mezzanine staircases. These are timber, marble, wrought iron, mild steel, concrete, acrylic materials, and even glass.
However, the most popularly used materials are wood, concrete, and metal. This set of materials are considered traditional, classic, and ageless. Materials like marble, acrylic and glass are used for contemporary designs to achieve that noticeable and sparkling effect. Whatever material you choose, make sure it suits the overall design of your house.
Conclusion
Having the right staircase for your mezzanine means you’re safe and have successfully added more space and aesthetics to your home. Following the tips above can help you get started on finding the right staircase. Remember that the right choice doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive. Find something within your budget that complements the existing architecture and home design. Don’t forget to take your time, if need be; getting the right staircase for your mezzanine is worth it.
