Outdoor spiral staircases provide just as much functionality as they do style, but not all spiral stairs are made equally. When designing a deck with a spiral staircase, these five tips will provide you peace of mind and ensure your deck spiral stairs are safe for you and your family.
5 Ways to Safety Proof Your Deck Spiral Staircase
1. Choose a Durable Staircase Material
While there are several options for spiral staircase deck materials, consider the durability of each material. For example, while wood provides an initially affordable and heavy-duty option, you’ll need to perform annual upkeep to maintain its durability. If neglected, wood quickly loses its structural integrity when it rots, warps, and splinters. By opting for a weather-resistant maintenance-free decking material like powder-coated aluminum, your staircase will have the added strength of metal, while also eliminating the expensive annual upkeep.
2. Consider Your Walking Path
The walking path of your deck spiral staircase is the area you’ll be utilizing. While your initial choice may be to create a staircase with the smallest footprint, so you can maximize space, it’s important to provide an ample amount of space for the walking path. As the walking path increases, so does the diameter of the staircase. Keep in mind that treads on a spiral staircase are wider towards the outer railing, gradually narrowing as they connect to center support post. Even if code allows for smaller spiral staircases, a narrower staircase diameter will result in shallower treads, decreasing the amount of foot space in the walking path. Especially if your deck spiral staircase will be used frequently, consider opting for a comfortable amount of walking space to ensure safety. By consulting with an experienced deck builder regarding your spiral staircase, you can ensure your structure meets all building and safety codes.
3. Invest in Sturdy Rails
Your spiral staircase railing offers support as you ascend and descend your staircase. Be sure to select a material that’s up to such a vital task. Your railing should be comfortable to grip and made from materials that won’t rust, warp or deteriorate with sun and water exposure. For more information on weather-resistant railing styles, visit UglyDeck.com.
4. Consider Tread Texture and Risers
By adding texture and risers to the treads of your outdoor spiral staircase, you are boosting the safety of the walking path. Since your staircase is outside, it will likely be exposed to different forms of moisture. Textured treads provide more grip, while risers prevent slipping and falling in between steps, adding to the safety of your structure. Textured treads and risers are particularly helpful for homeowners with small children and pets who will likely utilize the space.
5. Add Accessories
Most people may consider accessories as embellishments or finishing touches that add more style. While they do complete the aesthetic, they serve as additional safety features, as well. Adding lighting accessories to your deck spiral staircase will illuminate the walking path, so you can utilize your outdoor space at any time of day. Another accessory to boost the safety of your spiral staircase deck is to install gates at the entry points, safeguarding you and your family from potential falls. Gates provide homeowners with children and pets more flexibility and peace of mind during outdoor get togethers, knowing loved ones have restricted access to the stairwell.
UglyDeck.com Simplifies Deck Spiral Staircase Projects for Homeowners
If you’re looking to maximize space and enhance your deck with a spiral staircase, let our Twin Cities deck-building team help simplify the process for you. Whether you are looking for professional installation or you are a do-it-yourselfer looking for a customized-spiral-staircase kit to ensure precision and to streamline your installation, we work closely with homeowners to understand your unique needs and decking goals, so we can recommend the best products to make your project a success. With so many options available to you, our deck contractors can help you design your outdoor spiral staircase to complement your home, while meeting all building codes, prioritizing your needs and your family’s safety.
When you’re ready to get started, contact us to receive a free consultation and estimate or use our virtual stairbuilder to begin customizing your deck spiral staircase; we love helping customers like you maximize your outdoor living space to be everything you want and need it be!
