How Much Does It Cost to Install a Staircase
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In this guide
Interior Staircase Calculator
Stairs Cost by Area
Stair Prices by Type
Staircase Cost by Tread Material
Cost of Stair Railing by Material
Handrail Cost by Type
Handrail Materials
Premade vs Custom Stairs Cost
Cost to Build a Staircase
Stair Replacement Cost
Open vs Closed Staircase
Carpet vs Wood Stairs
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Additional Considerations
FAQs
Interior Staircase Calculator
Interior Staircase Calculator
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Cost
Materials
Set of open-riser basement stairs with 12 treads and 13 risers at 8"
$471
12 l.f. of basic handrails
$231
Labor
Installing a set of basement stairs with 13 risers
$230
Installing 12 l.f. of basic handrails
$111
Material
10 red oak 7-1/2" risers, 36" treads, including two 1-1/2" x 3-1/2" handrails and 7/8" round balusters
$2,873
Labor
Installing 10 risers and 36" treads, including two handrails and round balusters in a straight pattern
$690
Material
15 8" red oak risers for a spiral staircase, 5' in diameter, including double-steel tubular handrails
$7,718
Labor
Installing a spiral staircase with double-steel tubular handrails
$1,151
Total
$1,043
$3,563
$8,869
Stairs Cost by Area
One factor influencing the cost of a staircase is location. The main stairs in a home leading from one floor to the next come at a much higher price than a simple set of unfinished basement stairs. The table below shows several common stair locations and average costs:
| Stair by Location | Average Cost (including installation) |
|---|---|
| Attic Ladder | $500 - $1,000 |
| Basement Stairs (Unfinished) | $800 - $1,800 |
| Basement Stairs (Finished) | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Main Stairs | $2,000 - $5,000 |
Attic Ladder Installation Cost
An attic ladder or attic staircase is usually the cheapest staircase to install because the job is relatively simple compared to full-scale staircases. Plus, attic ladders do not have many decorative features and often have no or minimal railings 1 along each side. The average cost for attic ladders is between $500 and $1,000.
Cost to Build Stairs to a Basement
When you install basement stairs, you must decide between unfinished or finished stairs. Unfinished basement stairs are cheap and simple, designed purely with functionality in mind and not finished with fancy tread or decorative features. Unfinished basement stairs cost between $800 and $1,800. Finished basement stairs have proper treads and may be painted or varnished, providing a finished look. Finished basement stairs cost from $1,000 to $3,000.
Main Staircase Installation Costs
The main staircase in a home is the most expensive because it requires the most work and is larger and more complete than an attic ladder or basement stairs. The prices vary greatly for these staircases, ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on size, material, and railings.
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Stair Prices by Type
Staircases also come in a wide range of types and shapes to fit into different home layouts and themes. A modern home may opt for a fancy floating staircase, while a particularly narrow room is well-suited for a space-saving spiral staircase. The table below shows staircase types and their average costs:
| Type of Stairs | Average Cost (only material) |
|---|---|
| Straight | $800 - $2,000 |
| Winder | $800 - $2,000 |
| L-Shaped | $900 - $2,000 |
| U-Shaped | $1,000 - $2,000 |
| Curved | $1,200 - $2,800 |
| Spiral | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| Circular | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| Floating | $1,800 - $5,000 |
Straight Stairs Cost
Straight staircases are the simplest. They are the most affordable style and the easiest for workers to install, running in a straight line. They are also easy to attach railings 1 and handrails to, but as a downside, they take up linear space in the home. The average material costs for straight stairs ranges from $800 to $2,000.
Winder Stairs Cost
Winder staircases are similar to straight staircases, except they have a little bend in them like an L-shaped staircase but without a landing. They are relatively affordable to install, but trying to move large items up and down these stairs is a challenge. The average cost for a winder staircase is between $800 and $2,000.
L-Shaped Stairs Cost
L-shaped stairs are formed in the shape of an L. They are similar to a classic straight staircase in many ways, but with a 90-degree turn either halfway up or near the top or bottom and a landing at the turning point. They are a good option for saving space, but their shape and the presence of a landing make them more complicated and costly to build. Average costs for an L-shaped staircase range from $900 to $2,000.
U-Shaped Stairs Cost
A U-shaped staircase is shaped like the letter U when viewed from above. It has a complete 180-degree turn usually at the halfway point, basically looking like two straight staircases positioned side by side, going in opposite directions. A U-shaped case is a space-saver and works well in certain layouts of homes, but moving large items of furniture up and down this staircase is challenging. The average costs for a U-shaped staircase range from $1,000 to $2,000.
Curved Stairs Cost
The curved staircase is one of the most elegant types. Many homeowners choose this staircase as a statement feature for their hallways and entry spaces. A curved staircase is reasonably easy to navigate compared to a spiral or circular model but is costly to construct. Material costs for a curved staircase range from $1,200 to $2,800.
Spiral Stairs Cost
Spiral stairs are noted for their elegant spiral-like design, curving around a central post connecting the steps. They are often chosen more for decorative purposes than functionality, and it is tricky to move big items up and down them. However, they are a great choice as secondary staircases and do not take up much floor space in your home. Spiral staircases cost between $1,500 and $3,500.
Circular Staircase Cost
Circular staircases curl around themselves in a circular pattern similar to spiral staircases. Their wider design makes them easier to navigate for multiple people or when carrying items. They may also be known as helix staircases due to their structure. Circular staircases are among the most expensive for both materials and labor, with average costs from $1,500 to $4,000.
Floating Staircase Cost
The floating staircase is one of the most expensive but also one of the most modern and visually appealing. With a floating staircase, the treads seem to float in the air, supported by strong beams or attached directly to the wall. Usually, these staircases are made with strong and sturdy materials like stone or metal, but they may also be made of wood. The prices for a floating staircase range from $1,800 to $5,000.
Staircase Cost by Tread Material
One of the biggest decisions when considering a staircase is choosing the tread material. There are many different tread materials to choose from for staircases, each with their own costs, advantages, and aesthetic qualities. The table below shows some common tread materials, along with average costs per step:
| Type of Material | Average Cost per Step (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Wood | $50 - $150 |
| Brick | $60 - $100 |
| Stone | $80 - $120 |
| Composite | $80 - $150 |
| Tile | $80 - $150 |
| Metal | $100 - $200 |
| Glass | $150 - $250 |
| Concrete | $200 - $300 |
Wooden Stairs Cost
Wood is one of the most commonly chosen materials for interior staircases. They are also affordable, costing between $50 and $150 per step, depending on the wood type. One of the benefits of opting for wood is that it blends well with most interior aesthetics, and wood is strong and stable enough to withstand regular use without many issues. They are available in a wide range of woods and may also be painted or stained. The table below lists some common staircase woods and average costs.
| Type of Wood | Average Cost per Step (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Plywood | $50 - $60 |
| Engineered Pine | $50 - $70 |
| Distressed Wood | $50 - $75 |
| Maple | $60 - $90 |
| Ash | $60 - $100 |
| Red Oak | $60 - $120 |
| White Oak | $70 - $130 |
| Walnut | $80 - $130 |
| Mahogany | $90 - $140 |
| Cherry | $100 - $150 |
Brick Stairs Cost
Brick is another affordable material you might choose for staircase installation. It works well in an industrial-themed home and is used to create striking staircases. The price per step ranges from $60 to $100.
Stone Stairs Cost
Stone is an increasingly popular choice in many contemporary homes for its sleek, clean qualities and durability. Stone lasts a lifetime without suffering any notable wear and tear, but it is heavy and hard, making installation tricky. There are different stone types used for staircases, including granite and marble.
| Type of Stone | Average Cost per Step (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Granite | $80 - $100 |
| Marble | $100 - $120 |
Granite Steps Cost
Granite is the most affordable option when opting for a stone staircase. It costs between $80 and $100 per step.
Marble Stairs Cost
Marble is more expensive than granite but is often favored for its elegant beauty and unique patterns. It costs between $100 and $120 per step on average.
Composite Stairs Cost
Composite materials are a good option for those searching for strong and sturdy steps that do not rot, corrode, or splinter over time. They are highly durable, requiring only minimal maintenance and costing between $80 to $150 per step.
Cost to Install Tile on Stairs
Tile staircases are aesthetically pleasing because the tiles are available in a range of colors, styles, and patterns. They are also durable and easy to clean, although there is always the risk of a tile cracking if a heavy object is dropped onto it and repairs are costly. Many modern tiles simulate the look of hardwoods without the need for oils and varnishes. Tile staircases cost around $80 to $150 per step.
Metal Stairs Cost
Metal is another popular option for staircases, especially in modern or industrial-themed homes. Metal is strong and maintains its shape over time, without the risk of rotting, attracting insects, or splintering. It may also be powder-coated in various colors and finishes to suit the look of your home. Metal stairs cost between $100 and $200 per step on average.
Glass Stairs Cost
Glass is one of the most expensive options for staircases but is one of the most impressive from a visual standpoint. You may find lots of colors, patterns, and textures when opting for glass stairs, and they are even fitted with modern features like LED lights creating a striking aesthetic for any home. Glass stairs cost between $150 and $250 per step, and you need to add about $100 to $500 to the total staircase cost if you want LED lights installed.
Concrete Stairs Cost
Concrete stairs are popular with homeowners due to their sleek, contemporary look and incredible durability. However, they take time to prepare and cost a lot of money to make and install, so they are only suitable for large budgets. Since concrete is formed in almost any shape, it is a good option for curved or circular staircases and costs between $200 to $300 per step.
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Cost of Stair Railing by Material
As well as the steps and treads, you must consider the cost of stair railings 1 . Not every staircase needs railings, but they provide additional safety and support, especially in family homes. There are numerous materials for your railings. The table below shows common railing materials and average costs:
| Type of Material | Average Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Wood | $10 - $40 |
| Stainless Steel | $25 - $60 |
| Wrought Iron | $50 - $300 |
| Cable | $60 - $200 |
| Glass | $100 - $500 |
Wood Stair Railing Cost
Wood is the most affordable material for stair railings but is less durable than alternatives like steel and cable. It is aesthetically pleasing and matches well with a wooden staircase. Wood stair railings usually cost $10 to $40 per linear foot.
Stainless Steel Staircase Railing Price
Stainless steel is a popular option for staircase railings due to its strength and durability. It lasts for years with minimal maintenance and is resistant to both rust and corrosion. Stainless steel railing costs between $25 and $60 per linear foot.
Wrought Iron Stair Railing Cost
Wrought iron is one of the more expensive options for stair railings but is visually impressive. It is a popular choice for circular or spiral staircases due to its elegant appearance, costing between $50 and $300 per linear foot, depending on the style.
Cable Stair Railing Cost
Cable is a popular choice for modern, industrial-themed locations, noted for its sleek, clean look and low maintenance. Cable railings are very strong and sturdy but expensive at $60 to $200 per linear foot.
Glass Stair Railing Cost
Glass is one of the most expensive options for stair railings. However, it is usually the safest because it is typically installed in large, thick panels, with little to no gap in between to keep children safe when they climb the stairs. Glass railings cost from $100 to $500 per linear foot on average.
Handrail Cost by Type
In addition to the railings, you also need to consider the handrail. The handrail 1 is the section of the railings on the top where you place your hand for support or to guide you. Handrails come in two main types.
| Type of Handrail | Average Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Wall-mounted Handrail | $25 - $40 |
| Integrated Handrail | $30 - $100 |
Wall-mounted Handrail
Wall-mounted handrails 1 are the most common and affordable, usually costing between $25 and $40 per linear foot. They are also the simplest to install and are found in two main varieties: mopstick handrails and pig's ear handrails.
| Type of Handrail | Average Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Mopstick | $25 - $35 |
| Pig's Ear | $30 - $40 |
Mopstick Handrails
A mopstick handrail is shaped like the handle of a mop, in a long cylinder commonly made of wood attached to the wall with separate metal fittings. The average cost for this handrail is between $25 and $35 per linear foot.
Pig's Ear Handrails
Pig's ear handrails are usually more expensive, but the prices between the two are not that different. These handrails are formed in a curved shape and flow directly into the wall without gaps. They cost between $30 and $40 per linear foot.
Integrated Handrail
Integrated handrails form part of the staircase, running along the spindles or built into the wall. They are made of various materials and come in smooth ungrooved designs or more elaborate grooved alternatives, costing $30 to $100 per linear foot.
Handrail Materials
Most wall-mounted handrails 1 are made from wood, but more material options are becoming available. Many owners of modern homes who favor industrial or contemporary styles opt for metal handrails, which offer a sleek, clean aesthetic and are mounted on the walls. There are also glass handrails, which tend to be expensive but stylish. In terms of costs, wood is the cheapest material, followed by metal, and then glass. The exact costs per linear foot depend on the form and structure of each handrail.
Premade vs Custom Stairs Cost
Homeowners may opt for buying a premade set of stairs or having a custom staircase made from scratch. The costs of these options vary enormously depending on the materials, staircase size, and shape. In general, custom models are more expensive than premade staircases. Premade stairs are $1,000 to $3,000, while custom staircases might cost $5,000 to $10,000 or even more in some cases.
Cost to Build a Staircase
In addition to material costs, you must consider the labor costs for your staircase installation. Carpenters, handymen, and contractors build and install staircases. Prices vary, depending on the job size and type, hours required, and the installation location. A premade staircase is installed in a day with about 6-9 hours of work, but custom staircases require several days to make and install. For this reason, labor costs vary. Carpenters typically install a premade staircase at a rate of about $40 to $90 per hour, for a total cost averaging around $400 to $800, but building and fitting an entire custom staircase costs between $1,000 to $5,000+ in labor fees.
Stair Replacement Cost
If you already have a set of stairs that need replacing, the cost usually is not much different compared to a new installation. However, you may need to add a fee of between $500 and $1,000 to remove and dispose of the old staircase.
Open vs Closed Staircase
You also need to decide whether to opt for open or closed stairs, also sometimes referred to as open risers and closed risers. Closed risers are the more traditional option, found in many older homes, while open stairs are considered more modern. With a closed staircase, there are no gaps between each step, whereas an open staircase has gaps.
Closed staircases are considered safer and more practical in many ways because they create an enclosed under-stairs area for storage or other uses. Open stairs are regarded as more aesthetically attractive, allowing natural light to pass through the staircase and around the home. Open stairs tend to be more expensive than closed.
Carpet vs Wood Stairs
You may also hesitate between carpet-covered stairs and plain wooden stairs. Even though wood is considered the more modern and attractive choice, it has some drawbacks. Wood is slippery, especially when liquids are spilled on it. If anyone falls down wooden stairs, they are at a higher risk of injury because each step has no cushioning. Carpet-covered stairs may be less attractive, but they offer better traction to prevent slipping. They are ideal for children and elderly users, providing cushioning in case of falls.
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Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Storage Underneath
Since a lack of storage is a problem in many modern homes, people try to make use of their under-stair space to store toys, clothes, and other items. There are various ways this is done, and if you have a custom staircase constructed, you may request to have storage units built into the design.
Cost to Carpet Stairs
Carpeting stairs is a good choice to add color to your staircase or to soften it in case of accidents, providing more grip to those who use it. The average cost for carpeting stairs is $750.
Cost to Paint a Stairway
Painting a stairway is another good way to add color and life to a part of the home that is often overlooked. Depending on the materials used in your stairway, you may opt for various paint colors and styles, with average costs of $548.
Moldings
Moldings and trim may be added to enhance the look of staircases at the top, bottom, or along the wall beside the stairs. The price of trim and moldings varies widely, ranging from $10 to $100 per linear foot.
Stair Overlays
Stair overlays, also known as covers, offer a quick and simple way to spruce up the look of a staircase without a full paint job or remodel. They make stairs safer with slip-resistant options. Overlays are found in various forms and materials, from carpet mats and non-slip strips to composite and decorative hardwood overlays. With so many options, costs vary from $200 to $1,500 or more.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Many people like to whitewash or bleach their wooden staircases to give the wood a distressed appearance. This is a good choice for homes with a rustic or country theme.
- If there are white walls along your stairway, a matching white handrail makes the space look wider and larger. Replacing your current handrail 1 for a white wall-mounted alternative is a quick and easy way to change the entire look of the stairs.
- If you have a landing on the staircase, such as in an L or U-shaped staircase, decorate this space with art or plants. A mirror also makes the space seem larger.
- Before installing a new staircase, make sure your project meets building codes. Standard codes suggest stairs must always be a minimum of three feet wide and have a minimum depth of 10 inches. There should also be at least 6' 8" of headroom over each stair tread, and the maximum riser height between each step should be 7.75".
FAQs
- How much does it cost to install stair treads?
The price for stair treads varies enormously depending on the material used. In general, installation prices range from $50 to $300 per tread.
- Is it better to have carpet or hardwood on stairs?
This depends on your needs and desires because both materials have advantages. Carpet is a good choice for safety purposes and is recommended for family homes because it makes a staircase easier to walk up and reduces the risk of slipping. Wood is generally regarded as more aesthetically pleasing and easier to clean.
- How much does it cost to add carpet to my staircase?
This depends on the staircase size, carpet type, and the staircase's shape. The average costs are about $750 for carpeting stairs.
- How much is it to remodel stairs from carpet to wood?
Removing a carpet from a wooden staircase costs between $100 and $300, and then a handyman needs to install the wooden steps, which costs between $100 and $200 per step, including materials and labor. Expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 in total for a typical 12 or 13-step staircase.
Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet
Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.
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1 Railings: (Also known as Handrail) A long bar designed for a person to hold onto, giving them support. They are usually found on the sides of staircases, and can also be found in bathrooms, for example, to help persons with disabilities
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Staircase
Source: https://www.fixr.com/costs/interior-staircase-installation