Monday, October 3, 2011

Stainless Cable Railings for that Minimalist Look

The fact that stainless cable railings will not easily be destroyed by the elements is one approach to minimalism that you may otherwise overlook.  Stainless steel is one of the greatest inventions in modern architecture.  It protects the steel from deterioration and its technology is guaranteed to last.  In other words, its stainless quality makes it automatically timeless.

However, let us talk more about stainless cable railings.   What now if it is made of this fine stainless technology?  Well, for starters the look is clean and is not extravagant.  It is plain and simple.   For homes aspiring to have that modern and minimalist feel, plain and simple is the way to go.  No need for embellishments that may go out of date over time.  

In minimalist design, the closer you are to the barest skeleton of your home, the more you are keeping the integrity of its structure.  You can do so with stainless cable railings which would look phenomenal when it forms a line around your home.  Not only that, they are a lot easier to work with than wooden railings.  With wood, the minimalist look will not be as effective.

Railings look bulky and may only go well with homes that want to feature pronounced furniture and designs to go with the railings. Whereas when you go for steel, chances are you do not have to think about these things.  Chances are, you are aiming for a minimalist look.  If such is the case, then you will never go wrong with an investment on stainless cable railings.

Less is More with Stainless Cable Railings

Stainless cable railings have an easy elegance to it, without a doubt.  It can be used in offices and in your home.  But you can never go wrong with the use of stainless cable railings.  Unlike wood, they look less stuffy and are a lot easier to customize.  You have a lot of options when it comes to customization.  Some will you use steel balusters.  Others will go for a clear sturdy rail.  You may even opt to install glass with your stainless cable railings.  They are a lot easier to work with in terms of style.  You can be certain too that it will never go out of fashion.

When it comes to installing what you would like to go along with your railings, check on how you wish to utilize your space.  Some opt to have a more spacious look so they install glass along their railings if not do away with it altogether.  There are those who want to have a matter of fact stylish look, so they put in iron balusters with their desired designs.  You may even pick out spiral railings and be assured that it will last a long time because it is made of stainless steel.  

Whatever you plan to go for, make sure that it conforms to the feel of your other spaces.  That way your railings will not stick out like a sore thumb.  For compliments, go for sleek, contemporary looks.  Less is more is what they see in these modern times.  Stainless cable railings may seem less bulky but that is precisely its appeal.

Friday, September 30, 2011

Care for Stair Parts

There are a lot of things that can happen to you stair parts. They can get broken, get cracks, get spilled on, et cetera. And, your stairs being a very vital part of your home’s functionality and aesthetic value, needs constant TLC to make sure it looks and works pristine all the time. Here are your top three responsibilities for taking care of your stair parts:

Dust


It’s not just unsightly, it’s also a health risk to have dust on your stair parts (allergens). If your home is usually open most of the time, then it’s understandable that dust will eventually find its way to your stair parts. Bonus stress points if you have stair parts which have moldings and designs that make it difficult to clean. So the solution: clean regularly. Once-a-day dusting is advisable.

Polish

Dust-free stairs are good to look at but you can still improve its looks by polishing it. Polish acts as another level of material protection for your day-to-day stair usage. Just make sure that what you’re using is actual furniture polish (especially for wood balustrades and wood stair treads). Use a microfiber cloth for best results.

Protect

From the very beginning, you must make sure that you protect your staircase. Use tread ends for a safer treading and to protect the corners of your steps. For your balustrade, railings and posts, use a protective stain for steel and varnish for wood.

See, taking care of your stairs is as easy as ABC! All you need to remember is to maintain the regularity of your dusting, polishing and protecting. Cheers for good looking and long lasting stair parts!

Safely Buying Stair Parts Online

There is no doubt that internet shopping has now taken the world by the storm. What can you ask for? You can still buy the same stuff that you want, in the comforts of your own home, while spending basically the same (sometimes even less!) of the same amount! 

The only downside of internet shopping is that you can’t inspect the item personally. For clothes and small gadgets, this may be okay. You just have to work out the trust issues there. But for home implements such as furniture and stair parts, you might want to inspect a little bit further if you’re going for online shopping and shipping facilitation.

First off, look at the credibility of the staircase suppliers's website. The best determiners of credibility are the registration numbers to your government’s trade industry regulatory office, customer testimonials and even “Likes” on their Facebook page. You can also try leafing through their company history and their corporate profile (with the mission, vision and philosophy). 

Once you are sure that they are credible, look for the terms and agreements in shipping and payment. Demand for a receipt. An e-receipt will be okay for the mean time, but demand the actual receipt once the items arrive. 
Lastly, try to see if they have online support. Ask questions, talk to someone who represents the company and gives out his/ her full name. From there, you can gauge if the site is really credible. 

And don’t forget to ask for referrals! Usually they’re the best determiners if their stair parts are quality products and if they give out great customer service. 

Beauty of the Balustrade: Unity

The design of your baluster may very well have a flow when they are lined up in uniform - the thing we all know as the balustrade.  However, some baluster designs seem tacky or are just plain boring when they are finally put together.  Avoid the possibility of having something which doesn't work when lined up together by taking several baluster pieces and putting them side by side.  Sort of "rehearse" the pieces and see which of the designs you have shortlisted for your grand balustrade is closest to your desired outcome.

Some people when they go shopping for stair parts tend to overlook the reality that some things look different individually as opposed to when they are put together.  They think that picking out one baluster that looks nice individually will actually have the same effect when installed as a balustrade.  Do not be one of these people and be more attentive of small details.  You are highly encouraged to be more conscientious about your decisions in the home.

You might be surprised that some designs which may seem very simplistic individually may give you a pattern that looks great when you put them all together.   It is all about uniting a design and making it work with the other stair parts and the rest of your home. The beauty of a baluster is only appreciated when it serves its ultimate function.  It has to give sense to a whole, which in this case comes in the form of a balustrade.

Choosing Between Steel or Wood Stair Treads

So now you cannot choose what material to use for your stair treads.  Do you want a metallic tread so that it lasts a long time?  Do you want it to be made of wood so that it becomes "timeless", however it may be susceptible to the elements like wood deterioration and termites?  Whatever your concerns are they are LEGITIMATE concerns.  It may be a difficult choice especially if you have an aesthetic goal in mind.  This is understandable, at the same time, you have to be practical and understand the pros and cons of getting wood or steel.

Clearly the advantage of getting steel is that it is a lot more durable than wood.  Make sure that your stair treads are stainless steel to begin with.  But this may not be aesthetically pleasing, if you have a home that uses a lot of wooden elements.  So pay attention to this.  Moreover, if you use steel with poor quality they are more than likely to rust.  This means a lot of maintenance on your part.

Wooden stair treads will also become an issue if you picked out the softer woods.  Ask your dealer what wood is the most durable.  As stated above, they are very susceptible to deterioration but there are ways to restore it.  The great thing about wood is that it goes well with both steel and other wooden elements.  So you take your pick.  Just keep in mind the overall feel that you want.  The material of your stair treads can make all the difference.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Carpeting Your Stair Treads

If you love carpeting, you will find that carpeting your stair treads is a great way to compliment its look and make it feel a lot more efficient.  Carpeting adds traction ergo, it makes for a good surface.  This might make you laugh, but at least if something falls down the stairs, it will not damage the object as much.  So more traction, more adhesive quality at surface contact.

So what about carpeting your stair treads?  This will be such a great compliment to your home.   Carpets are classy and cleans up a look.  They also give the feel of being somewhere high end.  Think of all the hotels you have been to?  Remember the carpeted hallways, elevators, and yes, staircases?  They give that feel that you are somewhere really pleasant.  Same goes for your home when you start carpeting key areas like the stair treads.  You surely won't regret this decision if you are willing to maintain it.

Speaking of maintenance, the thing you need to pay attention to when it comes to carpets is the accumulation of lint.  So make sure to vacuum it every now and then to free it from dust, soot and other allergens.  People are psychologically predisposed to like carpeted areas and with good reason.  They are soft and they give a feeling of security.  Feature this mood along your stairs and get compliments for it.  Carpeting your stair treads is a great idea.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Let Your Imagination Run Wild with Newel Posts

Imagination and newel posts - do these two words fit?  The answer is yes.  What is there to imagine?  Well, let us just say how we spend time around the newel posts.  How we bond with our home with the little parts it features.  Imagine the times when your kids stood at the corner of the stairs by the newel posts and had that smile for you?

It is a smile that is sincere because their surroundings make them feel good.  Some may laugh at this notion saying that it cannot just be the newel posts.  There are other reasons why people would smile.  Yes, that may be true.  But you as the homeowner will have this ammo forever: the fact that you bought the best damn post you could find.

Do not limit yourself, therefore.  Get around and look for the shape and pattern that you think is befitting the theme of your home.  This may seem like a struggle at first, especially when you are moving in and the home just looks bland at the onset.  That is never a problem if you know how to warm up a place.  What you should be looking after is the designs you want to work with.  What are the designs that inspire your imagination?

With that, you then ask yourself, if these are the designs which inspire you what does it say about me?  You are actually running a retrospective in your head.  Truly, it can be rewarding to pick the perfect newel posts.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

What is there to Like with Newel Posts?


Many people overlook the value of the newel posts in their home.  What we do not know about it is that it is one of the most important parts of a staircase.  It is so important that we fail to notice it.  This happens in every day life.  So when it comes to designing your home, do not commit the same mistake of not paying attention to this detail.  In the first place, newel posts are the foremost support of the staircase.  

Think of it as sort of a joint in our body.  Without this joint, bones will not coherently function and will lose its structure altogether.  Imagine installing balusters without newel posts.  Not only is this notion funny, but it is quite frankly, absurd.  You never knew something is important until you take it out of the equation.  Do this with everything else in your life and start looking for those parts.  Same goes with this particular piece.

To really get to know what is so great about this staircase part is to really examine what it is all about.  Look at how the designs were implemented.  Think of the artisan who made it and imagine what was in his or her mind when they did the concentric carvings on the posts.  Think of what these designs mean to you?  Are they in any way enticing you?  Inviting you?  Does it turn you off?  These are legitimate questions when it comes to design.  You want it to be just perfect so you get the perfect newel posts.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Harmony in Your Balustrade

A balustrade is what you call a group of individual balusters.  It is expected and aesthetically pleasing to keep each baluster uniform.  Otherwise, it would look really funny and someone might have a bad day looking at your odd looking balustrade.  You might also end up having a bad day because someone made fun of them or made snide comments behind your back. (Unless you are total eccentric and could not care less about what people say.)

In any case, assuming you are a conventional homeowner, we want to keep some harmony in elements within the home. Yes, we all know there is a reason for things. Like the fact that a staircase can do without balusters if you wanted it that way.  But why keep the balustrade?

It gives harmony to the staircase and consequently your home.  It gives it that air of grandiosity and taste.  Each baluster is carved out with the intricate design of your choice.  These designs may blend in naturally in to the interior of your home.  However, some have that quality which is unforgettable.  It really depends on you what your intended effect is for your home's interior and overall character.

Moreover, harmony has also something to do with keeping the stuff that works. This allows that flow of positive energy that you want to come naturally from your home.  What does not work is when something gives you that feeling of incompleteness. Having a staircase that is complete with balusters is a harmonizing element in this particular structure.

Have Fun Memories with Newel Posts

What is it about newel posts that seem so endearing?  Ever had that prom picture of your son or daughter at the bottom or the top of the stairs?  In the shots how did your staircase look like?  Does it look attractive?  Some people hold on to parts of the stairs to strike a pose.  Sturdy and well  crafted newel posts attract these poses for pictures, thus you are making memories out of a simple piece in your home.  It applies to everything else.  When we touch things and we associate inanimate objects in our home to a certain memory, then we begin to feel good about them.  We begin to associate the positive feelings to these parts of our home.

Aside from making memories, we build stories about our home.  This is where little Johhny slid down the stairs.  This is where they put a mistletoe and mom and was caught kissing dad near the stairway.  This is where Anne you used to hang out to sit and think about things.  There are endless ways to share family stories because of the little features in our home.

Beautiful homes have character because they build history, memory and above all, emotion.  It seems farfetched that newel posts could draw such a positive effect on families.  Nothing is impossible if you have the right imagination. It pays to make sure that everything is perfect with the stairs design of your choice in order for it to turn out not to be obtrusive but more conducive to family events.  This is a creative way to record family events.  Pick out the right newel posts and you are sure to have fun memories.

Appreciating the Newel Posts


Newel posts are underappreciated, to say the least.  It is obvious and we see it in every staircase.  We know what it does: it basically supports the handrail.  They mark the points where the balustrade begins and ends.  In other words, without newel posts, your staircase piece would be incomplete.  That incompleteness will only be felt if you imagine a staircase that will not put newel posts on the expected corners.  You might end up saying, "Wow, something is missing."  You may never have thought that taking out this one piece would make all the difference.

Appreciating the little things requires one to really look in to the details and the craftsmanship put in to every piece of work.  Look at the symmetry, the lines and curves carved out.  What designs do they emulate or remind you of?  Moreover, are these designs attractive to you?  People have different tastes and sensibilities when it comes to artisanship.  

Try to find out what is yours by paying attention to what it is that things are made out of and how.  Without knowing, perhaps you will go through life buying this and that without really considering whether or not it fits with your sense of what is aesthetic.  What is aesthetic is a personal when it comes to your home.  Do not be easily swayed by charlatans that tell you that this is the in thing.  What matters is that what you are picking out something which speaks to you, something tasteful.  Developing a taste for craftsmanship is the first step to appreciating your newel post.

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Fine Wooden Balusters


You can make your home all the more attractive with wooden balusters.  It is interesting how such a small part of the staircase can make all the difference in terms of support and aesthetics.  What little we know about architecture also says a lot about what little we know about wooden balusters. They are an important piece of architectural design.  Its design value and function combined says a lot about how important it is.  As a set, a balustrade can put together the most elegant staircase.  There are minimalist and modern designs out there depending on what you feel is most suitable for your home.

The kind of wood that use for your wooden baluster is like picking out the kind of fabric you want to be tailor-fitted to your cloths.   In different parts of the globe, the kind of wood used varies.  Each wood has a certain smell and character.  In western countries, the use of Oak, Cherry, Birch, and Maplewood are predominant.  In Asia, wood like Mahogany and Narra are more commonly used.

Whatever you choose for your balusters will also translate to the kind of design you desire.  The quality is not only in the type of material you use but also in the design.  How it is sculpted and carved out will also communicate the aesthetic you get from your balusters.  Your home cannot do without these small details if you want your staircase to be just perfect.  After all your staircase won't be a staircase unless you have the perfect wooden balusters.

Newel Posts for Your Home

What a lot of people do not know about newel posts is how much of it goes back to ancient times.  The craftsmanship has evolved since the production of staircases had come to the picture.  What some may consider a trivial detail in your home actually has a proud history of years of refined artisanship.  As far back as the medieval times, people carved out family emblems or tell stories through newel posts.

For a more contemporary version of this experience,  you may have a distant memory of holding on to one and remember certain events in your life that are related to your home.  All these details will bring out unexpected experiences that make life more enriching.

On top of being a catalyst for such experience, newel posts give your home a subtle touch of elegance. It gives it that unassuming air of beauty.  It comes in different shapes and sizes.  As a set, they provide a very satisfying fullness to your staircase and may even accentuate different elements in your home.  If it is made of wood, naturally, it gives it the classical look that is timeless and memorable.  It may even symbolize your heritage depending on the design you pick out.

Do you remember the shapes which remind you of medieval designs or Celtic designs?  That can easily be translated through something as simple as the little details.  Focusing on detail will make all difference.  Start looking through catalogs of only the best newel posts you can find.

Unique Stair Treads

Most homeowners would really want unique stair treads but they don't know what to put there. Some would think about the stair railings first, as it is the most visible part of the staircase. Really, the stair treads make up at least 60% of the entire staircase so if you want something unique, put it there. Here are some ideas:

Paint a Rainbow


No, you don’t need to recreate a kindergarten school in your personal space. We’re just suggesting a minimal injection of color into your stair treads. Try experimenting with pastel colors instead of just sticking with the neutral ones. You can use different colors for every step or use a single color as accent and just vary the shades.

Be Literary

Another way to dress up your stair treads is to have some literary etching on every step. It can be lines from a poem, haikus, sayings, or simply names of your ancestors. It could be a fun way of telling a story or representing a legacy.

Go Sleek with Carvings


If you want to be unique but you don’t want to be so loud, you can simply go with customized carvings on your stair treads. This is best if your treads are made of wood. You can design your own pattern or you can have ready made ones copied for your very own staircase.

See? Now you can get over trying to think of a good design for your balustrade. Pay a little attention to your stair treads, and, in the name of art, you might be surprised where they will take you!

Traditional Vs. Modern Stair Railings


There are a lot of homeowners who admittedly face this dilemma when choosing their home decor such as stair railings: traditional or modern? Most of them would go for traditional because the designs can stand the test of time. The others go for the modern ones, as they are the kind who want to be more relevant with the contemporaries.

Now don’t fret, this dilemma may be eased in no time. First you have to determine what’s the use of the entire space. Is it a residential space? Is it an office space? These things cover the basic themes so you’ll have an idea if you’re better off with the traditional styles or the modern ones.

Once you have that done, answer this question: What is the kind of impression that you want to give? It’s not enough that you know whether it is a residential space or an office space. You also have to determine  the entire aura of the environment your staircase is at. Is it traditional-looking or is it more modern looking? What are the materials that surround it? What is the room’s “general look”? Your stair railings need to be faithful to the theme of the entire space so that it won’t look like a sore thumb.

Here’s a quick tip: for those who are not fond of changing styles, go with traditional, if you’re not, then go for modern. Just remember that your stair railings have to be made of strong material; something for long term.

Beautify Your Stairs to Beautify Your Home


Did you know that if only you will beautify your stairs, you can also increase the overall value of your home? Read along to find out more of this good news.

There is no denying to the fact that the home is really one of the biggest investments that we will make in our lives. We really take a lot of time to make sure that everything is in its right place. We work with budgets. We deal with different professionals—engineers, architects, designers, laborers, etc.

If your home is a multi-level unit, here’s one investment that you might want to zero on: your staircase.
First and foremost, the staircase is usually put at the part of the home where it’s easily seen as soon as a guest comes through the door. That said, you know that you have an opportunity to either impress or disappoint a guest. Take this chance to wow him and build a really good looking staircase. Remember, when the time comes that you’re going to sell your home, the agent who will appraise it will also face the exact same view.

Another thing, you have to have a really sturdy staircase for so that your home can last longer. The stronger your staircase looks/ is, the better it is. Why of course, if the staircase is weak or is unusable, how can you get to the next floor, right? And the longer your home can last, the higher its value will be. A strong and sturdy staircase is always a classic.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Iron Balusters: Classics

You will never grow tired of iron balusters because even time itself has not grown tired of it. It has been used in very classical designs such as some European-influenced homes, and is still being used today as a classy touch to your staircase. It is also sturdy and there are many designs produced by topnotch artisans. Pick the right one for you and you will never have to look for a replacement.

Iron balusters serve as the posts which carry the weight of your staircase. Its function is also its appeal. Imagine a staircase without balusters. It simply prevents people from falling. But the simplicity of its design is not what it takes to get it to be appreciated. That is why you can choose from a variety of iron craftsmanship if you are looking in to iron balusters. Some are poorly done, no doubt.

However, the ones that have been made with the best material and quality assurance will never disappoint. So ask around for makers and experts who know what they are doing with their material. Do not go off on your own and just buy the ones that are cheap and easy to get. Besides, that is highly suspicious.

Lastly, when it comes to giving your home that subtle touch of elegance, this is the kind of design that you should probably look in to. Unlike wooden balusters, one thing to consider is the fact that iron balusters will not grow weak and will not easily chip off.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Basic Guidelines for Staircase Building

A lot of memories are made along staircase. You can post photographs on the side of the stairs for posterity. You may even have used the stairs as a place to just chill out or think. Whatever memories you have around the house may very well be served by your staircase so choose your materials wisely and only buy the best that the market can provide, without going over-the-top.

A lot of people overlook the fact that having two or three stories in your home would not make any sense if your staircase was designed haphazardly. It is important to be tasteful with this important piece. Looking at samples of what kind of design you want may give you an idea which best fits your home. You may go for a traditional design. You may also go for stairs that have a platform in the middle before getting to the next floor. You may also have something spiral.

No matter what you pick, it is all about what looks good without sacrificing the integrity of your home’s personality. More importantly, when you are picking out the little things like balusters, brackets and newel posts, you should make sure that they all make sense when put together.

Don’t get iron balusters and pair it with wooden brackets. Yes, you are encouraged to be imaginative but you are also encouraged to be tasteful. There should be cohesion in the design and getting educated as to what a good staircase will look like will get you far in making sure you got the best.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Getting a Staircase

If you have lived in a bungalow all your life, the idea of installing a staircase may seem alien to you. There is nothing to be worried about when you want your home to have two or three stories as long as you know what you are doing with the most important part: the staircase. It can be a welcome addition to your home on the count that it gives it balance and may even serve as a centerpiece. It is also able to divide the public and private part of the house.

Other than that, there are many other functions aside from getting from one floor to the other. You may even put a room or closet under the stairs. You may even install a secret passage that is only accessible from the masters bedroom. Let your imagination run and be ready to be the proud owner of a new staircase.

Should you decide to go for a wooden or steel material, you should first focus on what kind of theme you already have for your home. Your home’s feel will be the guideline for the parts you install on it. For a cozy look, go for dark wood for balusters and newel posts. For modern go for steel or minimalist designs.

For everything else, there are many designs out there carved out with the finest artisanship modern interior design can provide. You are sure to never run out of options in this day and age. So get yourself a staircase that matches you and your home’s personality.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

The Importance of Stair Maintenance

Stairs are one of the first things that grab attention in a home. A wonderful, clean, and well polished stairs are a great sight to see. This may reflect the personality of the homeowner on how he takes care of his home. Therefore, if you want to maintain the beauty of your staircase, be sure to check it up every once in a while.

Ensure that the stair parts are in good condition. The stair tread should not be loose nor should have a rough edge and surface. For the hand railing and balusters, keep it shiny and attractive by polishing it with varnish and other cleaning materials. Always keep your stairs clean and clutter free to avoid any form of accidents.

If you want, you can also add some accessories such as flower decorations to your stair railing to make your stairs look more attractive. If you stair handrail is made of wood, inspect if the paint is already chipping or cracking. If there are any other repairs that need to be done, do not delay it to prevent accidents. Fix it as soon as possible and before the damage gets worst.

Also, if you need to replace stair parts, be sure to only buy high quality ones. It may be a little costly, but your safety and its durability is assured. Whereas if you buy a cheap buy low quality one, you may put your family who are using the stairs at risk. You will not be safe as it will not be as durable as it should be. It may also incur you more cost in the long run as it may only take a while before you need to have it repaired again. So invest with quality stairs from your trusted online stair builders and suppliers.

Getting to Know Your Stair Parts

Getting to know your stair parts may not be that interesting especially if you are not the technical type of person. It may be come to your as probably a waste of time understanding every part of your stairs. You may even ask “what for?”

Well, maybe you don’t need it now. However, if you will be building your own home in the future, it might just help knowing these important parts.

Stairs are often used by everyone who lives in the house. It is used every single day going up and down every level of the house. Therefore, stairs should be maintained regularly. Inspect it every now and then or after a few years of use. Try to observe if all the stair parts are still in good condition. If not, replace them as soon as possible. Replacing your stair parts will be easy especially if you know the technical term of the part you are replacing. It will be easier to tell the sales person in a construction or stair specialty store where you will buy your parts.

So here it is. The horizontal steps of the stairs are called the stair tread. The part that you hold on to while using the stairs is called the stair railing. It can be made from different materials such as wood, iron, stainless steel, metal, or glass. The part that supports the stair handrail is called the baluster. It usually looks like vertical poles all lined up to support the railing. It also serves as a protection or a barrier so that no one will fall out of the stairs especially the children. The two main posts that support the railing are called the newel posts. You can see them at each end of the railing.

See, it is very easy to get familiarized with all these stair parts! So, next time you need to replace your old stair parts, you will know what to ask from your supplier.

Things to Consider on Stair Installation

Stair installation is a complex process. It requires the skills and expertise of an experienced and professional stair builder. Although you can do it yourself if you really want to. However, hiring a stair builder may give lots of advantages including saving on costs for labor errors due to unfamiliarity with the complex procedures during installation. An expert may incur you labor cost but it may just be worth it compared to the cost of materials you will waste for an unprofessionally done job.

Other than this, it will also save you more time and hassle for this tedious job. Doing it yourself without the training and expertise to back you up may just lead to delay and possible accidents due to the complex procedures and construction equipments that are dangerous to use.

Also, before starting on your stair installation, be sure that the equipments that will be used are in good condition, and of good quality. This will impact the results of the job especially on the technical aspect. Modern and updated equipments also help complete the job in s shorter period of time.

In addition to that, be sure that the staircase will be properly positioned on the space. It should serve as a focal point of good design and not become as an obstruction. Although you may leave the technical aspect of your stair installation to the professionals, you may still have a say in deciding what stair parts to use for your staircase. You can choose from the classic but elegant wood stair parts or the modern iron stair parts. Choose something that complements the overall design of the area.

How to Keep your Wooden Stairs Looking Brand New Even Through the Years

Wooden stairs are great especially for residential homes. It gives out a warm and cozy feel with its natural color. Its beauty is classic and it never goes out of style even on any space. But if you want to maintain its beauty for a long time, don’t take your wooden stairs for granted. Care for them as your would the rest of your house.

It is best to buy wooden stairs parts and stairs that are already treated with anti-termite chemicals. This is to ensure that after you build your stairs, you will not be bother by pests in your stairs and give you a headache with its additional cost of repair. It may be a little bit expensive but it is sure worth it. It will also ensure that your stairs will remain durable and safe without termites eating up on it.

To keep your wooden stairs and stair parts looking like brand new all the time even after years of use, you have to clean it at least with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. For added beauty and protection, you can also coat it with varnish to keep it gleaming and fresh looking. With a simple coat of varnish in your wooden stairs and parts, it would definitely impact the overall appearance of your home making it look clean and beautiful. Varnish is also effective in protecting your stairs from scratch or other corrosion.

You can also further create an impact through your stairs by adding accessories and other types of stair parts to make a modern distinction between two different materials. For example if you have a wooden stairs you can complement it with iron stair parts. The combination is surely appealing.

Monday, February 28, 2011

Attic Stair Parts

With the aging process setting in, the preference of having single storey houses is becoming more attractive. A sad thing with reality is that even the younger generations are now avoiding second level dwellings because of obesity and being overweight. Sedentary lifestyle are making people stick to couches in front of television sets rather than wearing down stair parts and floor tiles with walking around.

Even commercial establishments are havens for overweight people. Escalators, elevators, and travellators make lazy people become much lazier, lessening leg movement when moving about. While having these automated steps aren’t all that bad, people are becoming more complacent with their wellness and the health benefits walking and taking the stairs offer them.

Taking the healthy avenue may require you to renovate your house and install a second level, order stair parts from stairwarehouse.com or have a professional carpenter create one, and actually using it when able. In a few days, you could transform your house into a workout gym minus the frills and expense.

Little steps and little effort add up to substantial work done for the body and improve overall wellness. While the usual thirty minutes of casual walking may seem quite a task for many, but breaking them into three minute intervals throughout the day seem more manageable. A three minute breakdown could translate into a walk up and down the stairs when getting something from the second level, as well as taking out the trash. In other words, taking the flight of staircase when able is one way to start upping one’s health.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Establishing a Good Working Relationship with Your Stair Builder

Stair building is not an east process. It is complicated and delicate. It is one of the most critical parts of construction. This is because the stairs are often used by people going from one floor of the building to another. Stairs also greatly impact the overall look of a building structure. An expertly made stairs by a qualified and reputable stair builder ensures safety for the stair users as well as durability for the years to come.

It is very important to establish a good working relationship with your stair builder. Trust is also a very important factor. However, in order to do this you should first make your own research regarding your stair builder.

Know first if they have a history of delivering premium quality stairs even in the past. Ask your friends or neighbors or search the internet for testimonials of satisfied customers. Or you can ask them directly regarding their previous projects or clients, their experience in stair building, and expertise. From the conversation, you can assess on how broad their knowledge are in terms of stair building.

You can also work together in deciding which stair parts to have. Some options include wood stair parts and iron stair parts. Both of these types are great for use both residential and in commercial areas. You can also ask for the suggestion of your stair builder as they have more knowledgeable in this field. In the end, trust their technical expertise in stair building.

How to Ensure Top Quality Stair Parts

Choosing the best stair parts for your home or office may not be an easy task. There are many things to consider. One of these is the appearance. You have to make sure that your stair parts looks perfectly well with the overall theme of the space. It should also complement well the stairs itself.

Other than the looks, one significant consideration that should not be taken for granted is ensuring that your stair parts are made from premium quality materials.

This is because high quality means long lasting durability. The question is how can you tell that it is high in quality? Well, it depends on the material that makes up the stair parts.

For wood stair parts, all you have to do is to knock on the wood literally. Observe the sound that it makes. If the sound is hollow, then the material is probably not a very strong one. But if the sound is full like a solid one, then it will tell that the wood stair parts is thick enough which means to say that it is strong.

For iron stair parts, you can determine the quality of the material by inspecting it and observing its surface. A high quality one will have a smooth and even surface. It should also have a good finish and no sharp edges. A low quality one can easily be determined based on the look itself. The edges and the surface may be rough and it does not have a good finish.

Another way to ensure high quality stair parts is by sourcing it out from a reputable supplier who is known to produce top quality stair parts ever since. A company with a good name will never compromise their good name by supplying low quality ones.

Cable Railings – Great for Homes and Industrial Offices

If modern but simple is your style, then cable railings are the perfect choice for you and your home. Having cable railings installed in your house rather than the wooden one provides you with many benefits.

Firstly, cable railings have a simple design with clean lines. It makes the area look neat and organized. Aside from that, its style looks very edgy and strong which is ideal for men. This is great for a bachelor’s home. Every single man out there would surely love having cable railings for their stairs instead of its wooden counterpart which is portrays a bit of a classic look.

Aside from its clean and simple but modern appeal, cable railings are also generally known to be durable and long lasting. That is why it is also the best choice for industrial offices or commercial establishments where a lot of people use the stair railing each and every day.

However, make sure you only buy those that are of high quality to ensure that it is sturdy, strong, and safe to use that can assist well the people going up or down the stairs. Cable railings are also very easy to maintain. It does not corrode easily. You can also add wood stair parts to complement it to give you a modern but classy look all at the same time.

Having a cable railing is a product of a modern but practical lifestyle having something that looks good but durable and high quality at the same time!

Monday, January 31, 2011

What to do Before Stair Installation

Before you begin your project of stair installation, you have to be prepared. You cannot just dive in without any background information on your project. So before anything else, here are a few things you should do:

Know your stairs

Stair installation involves of course, stairs. Thus you should know your stairs. You should be able the stair parts and the function of each. Observe also how each part is anchored to another part of the stair. At this time, read and review DIY stair installation articles too. You can watch videos too. Doing those will help you install your stairs smoothly.

Prepare your materials and equipment

Previously, you have learned what to do during the actual stair installation. You already know what materials and equipment to use. This time, you will be gathering the said materials. Make a check list of the said materials so that you’ll know whether your materials are already complete or not.

Print out a step by step instruction

When the time comes for your stair installation project, it helps to have a handy copy of a step by step instruction on stair installation. This way, you can glance time and time again to your copy if you are doing things right.

As you do your stair installation, pay attention to detail. Do not rush into the process. Take time to measure the balusters, stair treads, or anything that needs to be measured. Take time to cut your iron balusters so that your result will be simply flawless.

Your Staircase as the Focal Point of Your Home

A staircase is more than just a functional structure in your home. It has a great potential as an art. When made beautifully and placed strategically in your home, it can serve as the focal point of your home. Avante garde staircases are becoming more and more popular these days and architectural breakthroughs have contributed largely to this magnificent evolution of the stairs.

Material

For your staircase to stand out, the material it is made of matters. Common materials for avante garde and unique stairs are stainless steel, iron, and glass. Those three are used to achieve a contemporary look. Wood is also used but with glass, steel, and iron little effort is needed for a more modern, contemporary look.

Design
To truly catch the attention of the people visiting your house, your staircase should be made with a unique design. Hanging stairs and spiral staircases are very in today. Iron staircases with intricate and delicate designs are also quite popular.

Location
For your audience to fully appreciate the beauty of your staircase, it should be placed strategically in your home. The right location means everything. Thus, measurement, colors, and themes in accordance to the house is very critical. One mistake could cost you the beauty of your staircase for no matter how beautiful your staircase is, if it does not fit or complement its location, it wouldn’t shine.

So if you want to make your stairs the focal point of your home, observe the right material, design, and location.

Taking Care of Your Stairs

Your stairs is one of the most abused parts of your house. You use it constantly thus your stairs should be made to last. When your stairs is made of quality material, honor it by keeping it at its best. To keep it in mint condition, you have several ways to do that.

First, clean your stairs regularly. Cleaning your stairs regularly means you maintain the integrity of your stairs. Dust particles and stones from your footwear often get stuck in the different stair parts. These particles contribute to the destruction of your stairs earlier than normal. So make it a habit to sweep, dust, and vacuum your stairs.

Second, make it a carpeted stairs. When you use carpet on your stairs, it protects your stairs from abrasions. It also cushions your stairs from the regular abuse it takes from our heavy steps. Using a carpet also has another advantage. It provides as additional traction for your feet so that slips and falls are prevented.

Third, apply a regular coat of varnish. If your stairs is made of wood, applying a regular coat of varnish is a priority. Varnish not only gives your stairs shine, it also serves as a protective cover against abrasions.

Taking care of your stairs should be done regularly. Do not take your stairs for granted as they are a very important part of your home. If you take it for granted, you only set up yourself to spending a lot of money for repairs and renovations.