Solid oak stairs are incredibly durable and will obviously last for many years and will become even more beautiful with age. We can make solid oak stairs with four sharp edges or with just the required visible edge or side. The other edges may have a curve with bark due to the greater curvature of the oak wood.
Choosing oak wood stairs is a clean way to decorate your home or garden.
There are many reasons to choose solid oak stairs. The main ones are that it is incredibly hard and durable and is valued for its beautiful, densely packed fibers. Thanks to the density of the fibers, it is naturally resistant to moisture, insects and mold. The basic properties of oak wood are hardness, strength, toughness and durability. Of our woods, it resists not only weather conditions, but also the alternation of moisture and dryness the longest, which is why oak garden stairs are low-maintenance. Oak wood has always been popular in furniture, construction and gardening. In England, an entire century was named after it – the age of oak (1500 – 1600).
| PRICE IS AFFECTED BY – | QUALITY SELECTION AND FINAL STATE OF FINISHING: |
|---|---|
| quality – | visual, construction |
| final humidity – | dried interior 8-12%, dried exterior 15-20%, undried |
| surface treatment – | planed, unplaned |
| beveled edges – | without chamfer, 45° bevel, radius |
| most common dimensions – | 150x250mm, 150x300mm, 150x330mm, 200x200mm, 200x250mm, 200x300mm, 200x330mm |
WHAT SOLID OAK STAIRS CAN WE MAKE FOR YOU?
Rustic look with a higher proportion of knots and curls
Rustic oak stairs in a rustic style emphasize the natural beauty of oak wood without perfect industrial sharp-edged processing. Steps processed in this way will take you back several centuries to a time when perfection was not emphasized. More or less running edges of stripped bark, small and large healthy knots remind you every time you look at this beautiful piece of wood that in the beginning there was a tree that had grown for tens or even hundreds of years with a natural curvature rising towards the light with a bushy branching in the crown of the tree. To make oak stairs for the garden with a rustic look, trunks with a larger number of cut branches (knots) and not completely straight are used.
Sharp-edged appearance with fewer knots
When producing exposed oak garden stairs, we emphasize the quality of workmanship so that all edges are sharp without curves and a large number of larger knots. Exposed oak stairs, with their clean appearance and quality, show the majesty of oak wood and are suitable for structural and luxurious design elements of various small and large building elements.
To make exposed oak stairs, trunks are used, in order, the first and second pieces from the bottom of the tree with a smaller number of cut branches (knots) and minimal curvature.
Freshly cut (castrated) oak stairs with undetermined moisture content
The disadvantage of using unprocessed lumber can be a high water content and subsequent volume changes and deformations when drying to equilibrium moisture. Higher water content can also be problematic in terms of increased risk of attack by wood-destroying insects, molds and fungi, but this is to a small extent in the case of oak, as oak is resistant to these attacks.
When purchasing raw lumber, it is a good idea to choose the right quality for the type of use. Generally speaking, center-grained lumber, ideally radial, without any pith content, will be the strongest and most stable.
On the other hand, installing elements made of undried wood containing pulp can cause undesirable effects in the form of twisting, drying cracks, etc.
Technically dried, planed oak stairs
The profiles are made from technically dried oak lumber with guaranteed moisture content (usually 15% ±3%). For larger dimensions over 120mm, it is produced as center lumber or for smaller dimensions, the primary cut of the log is made with care taken to cut through the pith (center of the trunk). This guarantees higher dimensional stability.
SHOULD I TREAT OAK STAIRS OR LET THEM TURN GREY?
Oak does not need a finish in outdoor conditions, as it can last for about 20 to 30 years without decaying if not in direct contact with the ground. Untreated oak will turn grey in about 2-3 years due to sunlight and humidity. The color will first change from the points most exposed to the weather and will even out over a few years depending on the conditions. The greying of the wood can be slowed down by treating the wood with transparent wood preservatives. Exterior cladding made of oak also does not need to be finished, as the material oak can withstand UV radiation and humidity. However, the wood will turn grey over the years. Please note that during the greying process the surface tone may be uneven.
HOW DOES THE SHAPE OF AN OAK STAIRCASE INFLUENCE ITS FUNCTIONALITY?
Geometry and safety
Height and width of steps : According to standards, all steps in one flight of stairs must have the same height and width. This ensures smooth and safe movement on the stairs. Any deviations can lead to dangerous situations such as falls or trips.
Staircase slope : The optimal slope is determined by the formula 2h+b=6302h+b=630 mm, where hh is the height of the step and bb is its width. This ratio ensures comfortable and safe movement.
A staircase that is too steep can be difficult to climb, while a staircase that is too gentle can take up more space.
Types of stairs
Straight vs. curved : Straight staircases have a consistent tread width and are usually safer, while curved staircases can save space but are less stable
Swivel and multi-arm : These types allow for creative design, but can make furniture more difficult to manipulate and require more attention when using
Aesthetics and functionality
Combination with other elements : A staircase can serve not only as a connecting element between floors, but also as a design element of the interior. For example, segmental staircases allow for flexible space organization and can bypass fixed structures such as chimneys.
Materials and design : The choice of material (wood, concrete, glass) affects not only the appearance but also the functionality of the staircase. For example, glass staircases can appear light and airy, but require careful maintenance.
Practical considerations
Protective features : In families with children or pets, it is important to include protective gates for increased safety.
Storage space : Some modern staircases integrate storage or work surfaces, increasing their functionality in small spaces.
Overall, it can be said that the shape of a staircase fundamentally affects its functionality in terms of safety, aesthetics and practical use of space.
STANDARD DIMENSIONS OF STEPS ON OAK STAIRS?
When designing stair treads, it is important to adhere to certain standardized dimensions that ensure safety and comfort when using the staircase.
Stair height
Optimal step height : 150 to 180 mm. This height is considered ideal for residential developments where it is important that all steps are the same height.
Maximum height : In some cases, the recommended height may be up to 190 mm, but this may already affect walking comfort.
Stair width
Recommended width : 250 to 300 mm, which corresponds to the average length of the human foot
Minimum width : For main staircases, it should be at least 900 mm, while for apartment buildings, a width of 1200 mm is recommended to ensure comfort and safety
Staircase slope
Optimal slope : 25° to 35°. This slope is ideal for the main staircase and ensures a comfortable ascent
Height-width relationship : According to Lehman’s formula, the relationship is 2h+b=6302h+b=630 mm, where hh is the height of the step and bb is the width of the step. This formula helps in designing stair treads so that they are ergonomic and comfortable.
Number of steps
The maximum number of steps in one flight of the main staircase should not exceed 16, while for auxiliary staircases it can be a maximum of 18.
Other requirements
Minimum underpass height : 2100 mm, which ensures sufficient space for people to move under the staircase.
Minimum clearance height : 1950 mm, which is important for the safety and comfort of users
These standards are important not only for aesthetics, but above all for the safety and comfort of users. Therefore, it is essential to take all these parameters into account when designing a staircase.
SAFETY WITH OAK STAIRS?
The safety of oak stairs is a key factor that affects their functionality and durability. Oak stairs, as a popular material for their strength and aesthetics, require specific modifications and additional features to ensure the safety of users.
Important safety aspects of oak stairs
Stair slope and dimensions:
The slope of stairs is essential for their safety. Standard recommendations set a slope between 30° and 41°, with the optimal height of each step being between 15 and 18 cm. Stairs that are too steep (higher than 19 cm) can be dangerous, especially for children and the elderly
Anti-slip surface:
The surface of the stairs should be anti-slip to reduce the risk of slipping. This can be achieved by using textures, anti-slip coatings or special pads. Wooden treads can also help increase safety by providing better grip
Lighting:
Adequate lighting of the staircase is essential to minimize shadows and ensure good visibility. Lighting should be uniform and positioned to illuminate each step.
Handrails:
Handrails are an essential safety feature that should be placed at least 90 cm above the stairs. They provide support when walking and help prevent falls. Choosing the right handrail shape can also affect the comfort and safety of users.
Maintenance
Cleanliness: Regular cleaning of the surface helps prevent slipping caused by dust or moisture.
Surface treatments: The use of suitable varnishes or oils can protect the wood from moisture and mechanical damage.
Stability check: Regularly check the fastening of the railings and the overall stability of the stairs.
Oak stairs can be not only an aesthetic element of the interior, but also a safe and functional solution if they are properly designed and maintained. Additional features such as treads, anti-slip finishes, sufficient lighting and quality railings contribute significantly to the overall safety of users.
CAN I USE OAK STAIRS OUTDOORS?
Oak stairs can be used outdoors, thanks to their high weather resistance and long lifespan . Oak wood is known for its strength and resistance to moisture, rot and pests, making it a suitable material for outdoor structures such as stairs, terraces or fences.
Key features of oak stairs for outdoor use:
Strength and durability : Oak wood is one of the hardest and most durable types of wood, ensuring the stability and safety of the stairs
Aesthetics : Oak wood has a natural beauty with a distinctive texture and a variety of shades, which adds to the attractiveness of the outdoor space
Maintenance : Although oak stairs require regular maintenance, their longevity and weather resistance make them a wise investment.
However, it is important to ensure proper maintenance to minimize the risk of damage caused by weather conditions. It is also recommended to use quality protective coatings to help extend the life of oak stairs in outdoor environments.
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