Resources
Guides, downloads, and helpful information
Helpful Information
Everything You Need to Plan Your Project
Everything you need to know about planning your staircase project. Whether you are researching timber options, trying to understand building regulations, or simply want to learn the correct terminology, our resource library is here to help. Download our free guides, browse the glossary, and compare timber species before getting in touch.
Free Downloads
Downloadable Guides
Staircase Buyers Guide
A comprehensive guide to choosing the right staircase for your home. Covers styles, materials, and budgeting.
Download PDFBuilding Regulations Guide
Understanding UK building regulations for domestic staircases. Part K compliance explained simply.
Download PDFTimber Selection Guide
Compare oak, walnut, ash, sapele, and softwood options. Grain patterns, durability, and pricing.
Download PDFMeasuring Your Space
How to take accurate measurements for your staircase project. Includes printable measurement template.
Download PDFLearn the Language
Staircase Glossary
Tread
The horizontal part you step on.
Riser
The vertical board between each tread.
Newel Post
The main structural post at the top and bottom of a staircase.
Baluster / Spindle
The vertical members between the handrail and string.
String
The structural side board that supports the treads and risers.
Going
The horizontal distance from the front to back of a single tread.
Pitch
The angle of the staircase.
Winder
A turning tread used instead of a landing.
Compare Your Options
Timber Comparison
| Timber | Grain Character | Durability | Price Range | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oak | Bold, pronounced grain with cathedral arches and medullary rays | Excellent | ££££ | Feature staircases, high-traffic areas, period homes |
| Walnut | Rich, flowing grain with dark chocolate tones and subtle swirls | Very Good | £££££ | Luxury interiors, contemporary designs, statement pieces |
| Ash | Straight, even grain with a pale, clean appearance | Very Good | £££ | Scandinavian style, light interiors, painted finishes |
| Sapele | Interlocking grain with a distinctive ribbon-stripe figure | Excellent | £££ | Cost-effective hardwood alternative, warm-toned interiors |
| Deal | Straight, knotty grain typical of softwood with a warm tone | Good | £ | Budget-friendly builds, painted staircases, utility areas |
| Hemlock | Fine, uniform grain with minimal knots and a light colour | Good | ££ | Clean-lined designs, clear-finished softwood, staining |
Oak
Bold, pronounced grain with cathedral arches and medullary rays
Excellent
££££
Feature staircases, high-traffic areas, period homes
Walnut
Rich, flowing grain with dark chocolate tones and subtle swirls
Very Good
£££££
Luxury interiors, contemporary designs, statement pieces
Ash
Straight, even grain with a pale, clean appearance
Very Good
£££
Scandinavian style, light interiors, painted finishes
Sapele
Interlocking grain with a distinctive ribbon-stripe figure
Excellent
£££
Cost-effective hardwood alternative, warm-toned interiors
Deal
Straight, knotty grain typical of softwood with a warm tone
Good
£
Budget-friendly builds, painted staircases, utility areas
Hemlock
Fine, uniform grain with minimal knots and a light colour
Good
££
Clean-lined designs, clear-finished softwood, staining
Next Steps
Ready to Start Planning?
Armed with the right knowledge, you are ready to take the next step. Get in touch with our team for a free, no-obligation consultation, or browse our online shop for staircase components and accessories.