2024 Stair Railing Trends
Staircases are often the first element seen upon entering the home yet often overlooked during remodeling scenarios. Great stair railing concepts are what separates a common entry staircase and something more eye catching that will inspire interest for the rest of a design. Modern stairways incorporate important elements into modern design. Building media like glass or polished metal as an element of design can compliment a dark wooden floor or a unique slab table and chandelier. There has never been a better time to build an amazing staircase as modern options abound. Additionally, stair remodeling is relatively low impact and turn around times are faster than bathrooms, kitchens etc.
CODE STAIR RAILING HEIGHT IN CALIFORNIA
Code considerations will always weigh into a stairway design or remodel. Nobody wants to build a beautiful stairway with elaborate railings to find that the local code isn’t satisfied or the homeowner’s insurance company will not sign off on it. Code stair railing height in most locations is 36″ for a barrier railing section. Additional graspable stair railing sections may be needed and should fall between 34″and 38″. For more info on graspable railings please click HERE.
The Most Attractive Stair Railings
With code considerations for stair railings out of the way; how do we make them cool? Easy – first off incorporate some of your own style or home style into the railing style. Add modern elements like “floating stairs” , lighting, contrast between colors and textures. Modern iterations of classic designs work well. It’s amazing what a stainless cable railing will do to an old stair set. Tie in some dark wood top rail with hardwood flooring. If budget is a concern as it often is; think about refinish possibilities or repurposing and refinishing existing elements if possible.
Cheap vs. Expensive Stairways
Custom fabricated railing systems, curves, advanced joinery methods, hand carving, etc. are all terms that will likely relate to a higher cost improvement. Glass railings inside the house are much pricier than picket, rod, or cable options. Floating stairs or mono stringers, spirals, and structurally challenging layouts will drive costs.
Open designs like cable are great for narrow stairs. If privacy is desired or stairs open to a living space consider etched glass for a feeling of privacy without losing the aesthetic.
What About Exterior Stairs!?
Many of the same ideas and code requirements apply to exterior stairways. If you have an awesome deck and amazing views you can draw attention to it and attract use with aesthetics. Light up your stairs with tread lighting or post lighting. Lighted stairways are safer and really cool to look at.
–Maximize your space –
Open air and light penetrating designs are where it’s at unless you absolutely need privacy or wind breaks. Enlarge the perceived space with light friendly stair railings like cable railings and transparent glass panels.
DIY the Stairway or Hire a Pro?
Stairways can be tricky but we have products and techniques to make your DIY stair railing project easier. Pre made components, tool less fittings, and pre finished materials make your stair railings from SDCR easier.
For Jobs that call for something more; we have specialized preferred contractors that can adapt to any building scenario.
Give us a call or visit the QUOTE REQUEST form for a free stair railing estimate today.
