How I covered a metal staircase with wood. Manual

Stairs made from rolled metal or sheet metal have many advantages. They are more compact than wooden or reinforced concrete models, while being durable, reliable and safe. With proper anti-corrosion treatment of the metal frame, the structures are very durable. Due to the flexibility of the material (it can be cut, welded, bent), the shape and type of stairs can be any - spiral, marching, with platforms, winder steps, and so on.

Metal structures look elegant, but not very aesthetically pleasing, and their tactile characteristics are not very high. A tree will help correct the situation. They finish the metal frame with it - cover it on the back and sides, lay treads on the steps, install wooden handrails, balusters, and supports. This cladding improves the performance characteristics of the metal structure:

• it becomes more pleasant to walk up the stairs in light house shoes, barefoot;
• construction with wood looks more respectable, helps make the interior cozy, more “livable”;
• the indoor microclimate improves - this property is clearly manifested in phytoncidal coniferous species (larch, fir, pine);
• wooden cladding dampens noise from footsteps, increasing sound insulation, decorativeness of the staircase, and so on.

Another advantage of wooden cladding is that you can do it yourself. Let's look at the features and sequence of the process step by step.

Sheathing an iron staircase with wood: advantages

Such structures on a metal frame have excellent performance and characteristics.

• Long service life, in comparison, for example, with structures made entirely of wood.
• But the weight of a structure lined with wood is significantly less than that of an all-metal or concrete one.
• Steel gives the staircase a high level of strength and wear resistance. As building materials for the base of the frame, durable and at the same time lightweight brands that have anti-corrosion resistance are usually chosen.
• And wooden steps provide convenience and safety in movement.

Sheathing coating

When the staircase is lined with wooden elements, you can tint them in any of the colors. Before doing this, saturate them with an antiseptic, which will prevent the material from rotting. Another coating method is to preserve and emphasize the natural texture, color, and relief of wood. To do this, you can use a grinder with a steel brush attachment.

Comb the hard and soft fibers of the material. As a result of the work, the soft fibers will be removed with a brush, while the hard ones will create a beautiful relief pattern. Then, using varnish, give the steps the desired tone. Then sand the surface. After this, the varnish will remain only in the recesses.

Iron barn construction technologies

There are permanent metal sheds, and there are prefabricated ones. A solid iron barn may have a concrete floor, which is poured onto a prepared base, or it may have a wooden floor. If a plank floor is planned, the upper frame on which it will rest is made of a thick-walled profile pipe with a cross-section of 60*60 mm or 60*40 mm or a corner with a wall thickness of 4-5 mm or more. The floor joists are attached to the frame. They can also be metal, or they can be wooden.

In a small metal shed you can make a floor without joists. To do this, the binding can be made from a corner with a thickness of about 4-6 mm and a side of at least 10 cm. The shelf of the corner can be used as a support for the boards. Only the board must be at least 40 mm thick. For large spans, additional support may be needed. It can be made from a profile pipe of the appropriate section.

Metal shed with wood floor

A prefabricated/collapsible metal shed consists of separately welded wall frames that are bolted together. The sheathing is most often corrugated sheets, which can be quickly installed and removed. The roof is made of the same material. You can install such a structure at your dacha in a couple of hours, just as you can dismantle it. They are placed in unguarded dachas for the season, and then either hidden under lock and key or taken away to winter quarters.

There is another option for a prefabricated shed (they are also called a “house block”) - for those who do not want to bother with manufacturing. The industry produces ready-made kits that are assembled like a construction kit. There are Chinese-made options, and there are domestic ones. The price difference is not catastrophic 20-30%. And choose what you trust more. The assembly of one of the Russian collapsible iron sheds is shown in the video.

2300 rub. /stage

Two straight stringers

2800 rub. /stage

Ridge stringer

2400 rub. /stage

Two ridge stringers

3150 rub. /stage

Sheet metal stringers

2800 rub. /stage

For pouring concrete

3150 rub. /stage

Fire escape stairs

3500 rub. /stage

Detailed preparation

1. The first step is to measure the elements of the metal frame staircase that you plan to cover. The work should be carried out extremely carefully to eliminate the possibility of cracks, as well as overly tight fastenings. All this usually leads to deformation of the structure.
2. We transfer the obtained measurements to blanks for cladding.
3. We cut all wooden elements according to the markings.

Advice : if the steps are of different shapes, you need to number the elements so as not to confuse them during the process of finishing the metal frame.

1. When processing the elements, we slightly round the corners that are located “on the face” of the structure, which ensures the most convenient further operation, reduces the risk of failure of the finish and increases the safety of using the stairs.
2. After we prepare the steps, we move on to the railings with balusters, in the case where the project provides for such cladding. When cutting out the railings, we first determine their length, and then we adjust their shapes.

Advice : experts advise measuring all steps for finishing the stairs - without exception. Even if the fragments appear identical. This procedure allows you to eliminate errors in subsequent installation.

Stair elements

How to avoid mistakes?

To avoid miscalculations, when designing a structure, you need to exercise maximum care. If possible, it is better to entrust such work to experienced professionals.

It is necessary to pay special attention to several points

• It is recommended to avoid skimping on the main elements of the staircase, otherwise it may not be as durable as you expected.
• Using glass stairs for wooden houses is an option that is not suitable in all cases. You need to focus on a specific situation, the overall design of the room. Such designs are better suited for buildings made of brick and concrete.
• The strength of a glass staircase will directly depend on how many holes there are in the structural elements. There should be as few of them as possible. You can reduce the number of holes using glue.

Peculiarities

Metal and wood are unique materials that are easy to combine with each other, which is why metal stairs are often finished with wooden elements, changing the design.

Designs of this type have several unique features.

• Strength. This is achieved not only by the use of metal frames, but also by the introduction of wooden elements, which are also quite durable.
• The structures are finished with thin boards, which slightly reduces the load on the base.
• The cost of combined models is slightly higher than similar products made only from wood.
• When moving, the steps do not make squeaks. This is achieved due to the fact that there is no friction between the wooden elements, and the boards themselves are located on a rigid support.

• Practicality of installation. A metal frame can be built during a major home renovation. Its finishing is carried out after all rough work has been completed, which allows for much more flexible management of the process, controlling its implementation.
• Wooden elements are relatively easy to replace with new ones. If the coating loses its attractiveness or the design needs to be changed, you can easily change the paneling to a different type of wood.

Constructions

The staircase is the main element of many private houses. It gives a special coziness and also decorates the room. Iron structures are becoming especially popular today, as they are reliable and resistant to maximum loads. Products of this type are becoming more and more common.

Conventionally, stairs can be divided into several main types.

• Marching. This is the most common type of stairs. As a basis, they use special bowstrings and stringers made of metal. In most cases, marches have straight lines that are connected by small horizontal platforms. Depending on the method of finishing, the surfaces of stairs are divided into open and closed. The first type involves the use of only steps. In closed models, risers and other decorative finishing elements are already installed on the frame.

• Screw. Stairs of this type can be installed in places with limited space. The main element of this design is the central metal support. Pipes are often used here. A frame with wooden steps at different levels is attached around the support. Thus, a kind of spiral or screw is formed.

Today, spiral staircases are also made using curved stringers. But such a design is quite expensive and is not always available to many people.

There are also combined stairs that combine several types. They are not found so often, since their construction is complex.

Combinations

The design of metal stairs can be different, as it depends on the manufacturer and the desire of the owner. But very often they are made in such a way that it is possible to attach wood or other finishing material to the metal frame, and the finishing of the stairs can be different.

Conventionally, the design of metal stairs can be divided into the following subtypes:

• Half open. The staircase frame is covered with wood only in certain places. Often such structures are equipped with wooden steps attached to supports. As an additional finishing, railings or balusters are also made from wood.

• Closed. For such stairs, the metal frame is completely hidden under the wooden trim. All structural elements are covered with wood, which allows you to get a beautiful product, characterized by high strength and durability. The uniqueness of this finish lies in the fact that externally the staircase is almost impossible to distinguish from its wooden counterpart. But obtaining such a product is somewhat more difficult, since it requires careful adjustment of all parts.

“Staircase to the house” - professional production of wooden stairs with any design

If you are not confident that you can do it yourself, you should not risk the safety of your household - order a professionally made staircase from specialized specialists. They will design the structure, observing current GOSTs, make calculations, and help you choose a convenient and beautiful option for wooden cladding.

offers a large selection of mid-flight, screw designs at an affordable price. Buyers have access to ready-made options from the catalog (more than 400 models), as well as products for individual projects. Certified materials and high-quality compounds from Votteler, Loba, AkzoNobel are used in production. By collaborating directly with manufacturers, the company optimizes the cost of products and increases the efficiency of solving all technical problems. "Stairway to Home" offers:

• a wide selection of models made of wood, on a metal frame (with straight steps, winder steps, with platforms, etc.), a variety of finishing options;
• assembly and installation services of structures at sites in Moscow and the Moscow region - we install stairs in private houses, apartments, commercial spaces;
• delivery of manufactured structures to all regions of Russia using proven transport services;
• professional assistance in choosing designs, shapes, finishes and so on.

To place an order, ask a question, or find out about the terms of cooperation, contact the company’s managers by phone or write to us in an online chat.

Which wood to choose

Before sheathing a staircase on a metal frame, you need to choose the type of wood. The most popular wood for finishing work is oak, walnut, beech, cherry, pear, ash and mahogany.

1. Oak has increased durability and strength, a wide color palette - from delicate yellow tones to red-brown shades. This wood has an interesting feature of darkening after some time, acquiring a deep color. It gives nobility to the cladding. Oak stairs are of reference quality.
2. Ash has the same strength as oak wood. The material has a bright and pronounced texture and a beautiful grayish tone.
3. Beech is elegant and sophisticated. Its wood has a uniform texture and durability. Perfect to imitate mahogany.
4. An excellent effect is obtained if you use exotic types of wood - teak, wenge, abash, merbau . They have very beautiful colors: lemon yellow, rich purple, deep red, black, brown. These materials make incredibly beautiful stairs.
5. For cladding risers, you can use coniferous species - spruce, pine, fir . Pine has good performance qualities. Due to its low density, it is easy to process. The price of elements that are finished with coniferous wood is significantly less than their hardwood counterparts.

Oak

It is an excellent material that is highly durable. Wood has many different shades. At the same time, the oak darkens over time, acquiring a noble appearance. The product is expensive, so it is not always used to finish the entire staircase.

Ash

It is not inferior in strength to oak, which is why it is especially popular. This breed has a grayish tint and a bright, unique structure.

Beech

Externally, the wood after processing resembles mahogany, so it is very often used in cases where it is necessary to give the stairs a special design. It should be noted that beech boards are very durable and can last as long as ash.

Design features

The base of a metal staircase is convenient because it can be made of any shape: metal can be bent, cut and welded. The small-sized, lightweight design has a high load-bearing capacity and can withstand the weight of any decor. Covering the metal frame of the staircase with wood gives it an aesthetic appearance.

Frame

To make a frame with your own hands, use sheet metal or rolled metal: corners, channels, square pipes. The design can be made from stainless steel. The price will be higher, but anti-corrosion treatment will not be required.

The choice of material depends on the type of staircase planned:

• Zabezhnaya;
• Marching;
• Rotary;
• Arc-shaped;
• Spiral.

Metal frame of a flight of stairs

Note! The greater the slope of the stairs, the less space it takes up. However, for comfortable lifting, the angle should not exceed 350.

Depending on how you cover the metal frame of the staircase with wood, you will get a closed or open structure. The sides of the closed base are covered with wooden panels and steps, so there are no aesthetic requirements for the appearance of the frame.

The open frame consists of two stringers made of a metal profile, connected to each other. The steps are fixed on them. The surface of the base is cleaned and covered with enamel. For narrow stairs, one stringer can serve as the basis of the steps. In this case, risers are not installed.

steps

Treads should be made of hard, wear-resistant wood to extend their service life without compromising their appearance. The material for risers can be soft wood.

Before sheathing a staircase on a metal frame with wood, you should consider how to finish the steps. It is not recommended to paint steps with oil paint; if water gets in, the step becomes slippery. There are special mastics that make the surface non-slip.

Note! To prevent the steps from being slippery, clean river sand is added to the paint or varnish.

When calculating the steps, you need to take into account that, according to GOST, the minimum width of the internal staircase is 0.7 m, external - 1.2 m, on one flight - no more than 18 steps.

The table compiled on the basis of GOST shows the optimal ratio of the width and height of the step

Calculation example

We accept: tread width = 30 cm. According to the table recommendations: 60 – 30 = 30 cm, 30: 2 = 15 cm. Received: with a tread width of 30 cm, the height of the step should be 15 cm.

Fencing

Fences (railings), in addition to decorative functions, provide convenient and safe movement along the stairs. Before sheathing a metal staircase with wood with your own hands, you need to familiarize yourself with the installation requirements and the minimum dimensions of structures specified in the regulatory documents: SNiP 31-01-2003, GOST 23120-78 and GOST 25772-83.

Key points:

• Fence height – 90 – 100 cm;
• The pitch of the racks is 60 cm;
• The space between the racks is filled;
• When attaching the handrail to the wall, the distance between them is 10 cm;
• The overhang of the handrail above the line of steps is 30 cm, rounded;
• Handrail overlays – continuous, smooth, 5 cm wide.

The railing is the most decorative element of the staircase. They are made from various materials that correspond to the required strength (withstand a load of 100 kg/m) and the design of the room.

A metal staircase sheathed in wood may have a railing made of:

• Trees;
• Metal;
• Glass;
• Combined.

The fence can be prefabricated from individual parts, or welded. The components of the railing are:

• Support posts - for attaching the fence to the stairs;
• Filling the fence (balusters or horizontal elements) closes the space between the support posts;
• Handrails - the top of the fence, designed to support the hand when descending and ascending.

Racks

A staircase on a metal frame, covered with wood, can be equipped with wooden or metal racks. The lower edge of the balusters can be attached directly to the step, with bolts or welding to the end of the step. The top of the posts is secured with railings.

Wooden posts are a prefabricated type of fencing. The shape of wooden balusters depends on the design and style of the staircase. A classic is the round, chiseled piece. Also, flat products cut from boards using a stencil are often found.

Their outlines can follow a round baluster, or have an original design. Paints, varnishes or polishing are used for finishing.

Metal racks can be prefabricated or welded. Prefabricated structures are usually made of aluminum or steel.

The following is used as a protective coating:

• Polymer materials;
• Anodized aluminum;
• Chrome plating on steel surfaces.

Welded fencing is made of steel or iron, cast iron (ferrous metal). The iron and cast iron construction is heavy and durable. Its disadvantage is its susceptibility to corrosion. Such surfaces must be painted.

Filling the fence

Before sheathing a staircase on a metal frame with wood, you should also think about railings. They can also be metal, but if wood is used for cladding the structure, then it is quite logical that the railings will also be wooden.

A wooden fence can be created by using frequent spacing of balusters. Another option is to secure decorative wooden sections between the posts.

How to cover a metal staircase with wood using balusters

Metal fencing can be made in any style. The use of steel crossbars and balusters in the form of shiny tubes is characteristic of modernity. Cast and forged patterns are a tribute to the classics.

Types of metal filling:

• Vertical - parts of various profiles are located in frequent increments;
• Horizontal - crossbars running at different heights parallel to the handrail;
• Solid – decorative panels, forged and cast grilles.

Wooden balusters will greatly decorate such a staircase

Wood goes well with metal and glass. Glass fencing can be continuous or consist of separate panels.

Wood paneling of a metal staircase in a modern style

Handrails

The surface of the handrails must be smooth to prevent injury to the hand. Stairs covered with wood on a metal frame, more than 130 cm wide, are equipped with handrails on both sides - on the railing and on the wall.

The angle of inclination and installation height should be the same. The beginning and end of the handrail are made rounded.

Photos of the finished work

Finished staircase on a metal frame. The metal frame is painted by the client after the steps are installed.

Metal stairs are characterized by durability and reliability, however, their appearance does not always suit the chosen design of an apartment or house. The finishing of metal stairs is carried out specifically to allow modern materials to turn an ordinary staircase structure into a “work of art”.

Metal staircase with wooden steps

Finishing metal stairs: options, tips and instructions. How to do the finishing yourself.

Finishing staircase structures is a rather complex process, but it is even more difficult to choose a material for this; many characteristics must be taken into account:

Reliability;Durability;Safety;Quiet;Style and design.

Actually, the staircase covering is a decorative design of the structure, which should ultimately combine optimal performance characteristics and stylish design, harmoniously combined with the interior.

Black metal staircase

Metal tends to wear out over time, especially in places of welding seams, and therefore it is recommended to carry out finishing work at the initial stage of installation of the structure.

Finishing the metal frame of the stairs will protect the metal from corrosion.

Depending on each specific interior and the purpose of the staircase, depending on the availability of financial capabilities, finishing can be carried out:

Wood; Finishing a metal staircase with wood; Natural stone; Finishing a staircase with stone; Laminate; Tiles, porcelain stoneware; Linoleum, carpet.

It is the material chosen for finishing the staircase that will largely determine the final appearance of the structure and its comfortable use.

A metal frame can be sheathed entirely with one material, but often a combined finish is made from two or more materials.

Glass finishing of stairs

Covering stairs with wood: main stages. Top mounting and rear side

A staircase in a residential building should, above all, be strong and comfortable. Metal or concrete has always been considered the standard of reliability, but both of these materials, in the vast majority of cases, require cladding, and here wood is the best choice. A staircase on a metal frame covered with wood, as well as its concrete counterpart, radically changes the design of the room, adding a touch of homely warmth and comfort.

Photo of a tightly wired span with a platform.

Openwork forged metal structures or steps finished with natural marble are certainly beautiful and prestigious. But such stairs are considered perhaps the most dangerous. They are well suited for public buildings; a residential building involves the use of safer and softer cladding, which is wood.

Combined stairs by design type

The term “combined” implies the use of structural elements of various types. The variety of combination options is great, but the most popular types include the following types:

The march design is made with support from the stringer and bowstring. In this case, one side of the steps is attached to the stringer, and the other is fixed with a bowstring.

• Bolts are used to fasten one side of the march, and the other is secured to the opposite wall.
• Fastening with bolts and support on one side of the march, and the other on the stringer.

Combination of a screw structure with a support pillar and winder steps, supported by a bowstring.

Stringers for arranging combined flights are made of wood, metal or concrete. Steps can be glass, wood, metal or natural stone. Metal, wood and plastic are used for fencing.

What wood to use

The first thing you should start with before covering the stairs with wood is choosing the type of wood. Natural solid wood is not only beautiful and warm, but in the case of a metal base, it is also excellent sound insulation.

Partial wood paneling.

Depending on the type of wood, such cladding can be either low-budget, quite affordable for most people, or elite, emphasizing the solidity and respectability of the owner. Since sheathing a metal staircase with wood with your own hands is relatively easy, both of these options are suitable for the average owner who is confident in using a hacksaw, a plane and a screwdriver.

Important: most common types of wood are quite suitable for these purposes. Modern tinting and paint materials work wonders; with their help you can imitate almost any breed. But the main requirement is the humidity level of the array; it should not exceed 12%, otherwise the board may fail.

For risers, balusters and handrails, as well as for side and rear cladding, strength characteristics are not so important; the main thing here is that the material matches the color of the interior.

It is advisable to make the steps themselves from strong, mostly hardwood.

External cladding of the stairs.

• Since ancient times, oak boards have been considered the standard of beauty and strength. Depending on the type and place of growth, the color palette of oak can range from gently golden to dark with a burgundy tint. A distinctive feature of this array is considered to be noble aging; over time, your oak steps will darken slightly and acquire a refined deep shade.
• Beech symbolizes elegance. This material has a dense, uniform structure. And although it cannot boast such a variety of shades as oak, they have similar strength and wear resistance characteristics.
• Hornbeam is a specific material; in some sources it is also called white beech. When properly dried, its strength exceeds that of oak. Thanks to its light tone, such a board can be easily tinted to match any exotic wood.

Common wood species.

• Ash, pear, cherry or acacia are considered middle class. Possessing enviable strength, they are distinguished by their original, unique pattern and elasticity. Such steps, with the right approach, can become the highlight of your interior.
• Exotic wood such as wenge, teak, marabou or abasha is certainly a worthy material in all respects. But the price of such materials is not always affordable even for people with average incomes.
• As for coniferous species, they are often used for risers and accompanying cladding. Although there are exceptions, Canadian cedar has unique characteristics and is often used for luxury finishing.

Main stages of finishing

The technologies for cladding metal and concrete are generally similar. But covering a metal staircase with wood is a little more complicated. Therefore, we will dwell in more detail on how to sheathe an iron staircase with wood.

General cladding scheme.

Rear mounting

Advice: often the thickness of the metal on such structures ranges from 5 to 7 mm, so when you drill, immediately prepare a container with water to periodically cool the drill.

Holes are drilled for sub-melting at intervals of about 150 mm, plus or minus 50 mm. It is necessary to retreat about 20 mm from the edge.

As for the diameter, the wood screws should fit freely into them. Calculate the length of the screws so that they do not go right through your step.

Corner design.

Once the holes are ready, you can begin installing the substrate. It sits on mounting adhesive with a filling effect. Some people recommend sealing over silicone, but silicone is a sealant and serves other purposes.

Important: attaching the underlay, steps or any other parts of the stairs to the mounting foam is strictly prohibited. It will dry out and sag over time, plus such steps will constantly creak.

Options for metal structures.

When the glue has set, you can begin installing the step itself. Everything is simple here, the board is laid on the substrate and attached from below with self-tapping screws.

In order for the screws to fit in easily, you need to pre-drill small diameter holes for them. The technology for installing risers exactly repeats the fastening of steps.

Balusters can be attached to a wooden staircase with two bolts on the side of the structure or installed directly on the side of the step itself, only for this you will need to install a special anchor bolt there.

When attaching a balustrade, first install the lower and upper posts, then stretch the thread and install the remaining balusters along it. The installation interval can be 90, 130 and 220 mm.

Beautiful examples

Strict two-flight staircases made of metal frames with wooden steps look great. They are simple and elegant and fit perfectly into the interior.

The staircase with railings and steps made of expensive wood is decorated with wooden posts and forged frames.

This option is unusual with one-sided glass railings.

Metal stairs in wooden design are a stylish and practical trend. When making them, you should carefully consider the style, and then turn the idea into reality.

Detailed video instructions clearly demonstrate the full cycle of covering a metal staircase with wood.

Frame covering material

To decorate a metal staircase with your own hands, you can use different types of wood. The specific choice will determine what the final design will be - a budget option or an expensive interior element. Also, the choice of wood largely determines the performance qualities of the future product - whether it will be a modest staircase for infrequent use or an impact-resistant model with high levels of heat and sound insulation.

Related article: Basic options for lighting stairs in a house and selection criteria (+58 photos)

The cladding of stairs on a metal frame can be made from such types of wood as:

• Oak. Famous for its strength and durability. Available in a wide range of colors: from light yellow to red-brown shades. This wood also has one feature - over time, the solid wood darkens a little, acquiring deep and noble tones.

• Ash. Not inferior to its predecessor in strength. It has a grayish tint and a unique fibrous pattern; the structure of this wood is more porous than oak.

• Beech. The rock is hard and dense, but easy to work with. It has a beautiful and clear texture with veins. Curly and bent elements are most often made from beech.

• Coniferous species. Cedar, pine, and larch are often used for cladding staircase structures. Pine is the cheapest, but it does not have high performance qualities. Such materials are used for cladding only in places where there is no need to use more expensive and durable wood.

• Exotic breeds. These include wenge, teak and merbau. Their main advantage is the variety of colors: from lemon yellow to deep purple, rich red and black tones. In addition to aesthetic appeal and decorativeness, they are durable and have a long service life.

Stain is most often used to tint wood paneling. If you want to save money, choose any of the affordable options. The main thing is that it is a light type of wood.

Criteria for choosing a metal staircase finish

Cladding an iron staircase structure with wood is, to a greater extent, a decorative design of the frame. However, you still need to choose finishing materials that would significantly improve the technical characteristics of the future product. The end result should be a staircase that is strong, comfortable and safe to use.

To choose a high-quality facing material, you should pay attention to the following criteria:

• The maximum permissible moisture content of lumber should not exceed 12%. Poorly dried wood often causes deformation of the staircase structure or its elements.

• There should be no cracks, chips or other defects on the surface of the material. Choose only smooth wood, one that has been sawn on good machines.

• There should not be too many knots in the tree structure. Otherwise, the material will be difficult to process, and this will require a lot of labor.

• The choice of covering also depends on the location of the metal staircase - in the living room, occupying the central part of the room, or in the utility part. After all, the aesthetic characteristics of different breeds are not the same.

Related article: How to install balusters on a staircase yourself: fastening methods and installation features

Choose only high-quality and well-dried wood

In the video: how to choose material and components for the stairs.

Variety of finishing materials

Staircase covering can be complete or partial. It largely depends on the style of decoration of the room.

Wood

A wooden staircase retains heat well, so there is no need to cover it with a path

Natural wood is one of the most popular materials. With its help, steps and fencing are finished. In this case, the structure looks monolithic. Oak, beech, and exotic wood species are used for cladding. The budget option involves the use of coniferous materials. These can be boards or lining.

The finish can be additionally decorated with tinting compounds. The advantages of wood cladding are environmental friendliness, luxurious appearance, ease of installation and repair, and durability. If it is not possible to sheathe the structure with natural material, you can use MDF panels.

A natural stone

Natural stone finishing requires a solid base

The steps of concrete stairs are often finished with natural stone: marble, granite, sandstone, basalt tiles. This material is durable and decorative. The finish looks expensive. It can be used not only indoors. It is best used on wide structures that are installed in large rooms.

The advantage of the stone is fire resistance, a wide selection of shades and textures. The disadvantages of cladding include poor sound insulation (steps cause loud noise) and high cost. Often it is necessary to involve specialists to carry out work.

Steps with this finish remain cold.

Carpet

The carpet does not slip, it can be washed without removing it

Carpet is used if there are children or elderly people in the house. This material makes the steps less slippery and noisy. You can install the trim right away. For fixation, use wooden or plastic plinths or brass rods. To increase the service life of the material, felt is laid underneath it.

The carpet is durable, resistant to moisture and abrasion. You can do the cladding of the stairs yourself. The advantage of carpet is that it will be pleasant to walk on the steps even barefoot, since the product is soft and warm. It is suitable for wooden and concrete stairs.

Laminate

For finishing stairs, buy laminate with increased strength

The choice of laminate as a finishing material depends on the design features of the structure. This cladding is best suited for wooden stairs. They take on a very neat and beautiful appearance. Since the structure is subjected to mechanical stress every day, it is necessary to choose a high-strength laminate with an anti-slip coating. Before laying the lamellas, the base requires leveling and waterproofing.

The advantage of the material is the variety of shades, the ability to select the required size of elements, and ease of installation. You can do it yourself. Laminate is able to imitate other natural facing materials.

Dye

Metal or concrete stairs can be finished with paint. If the structure leads to a cellar, basement or domestic premises, it is better to use a composition with water-repellent properties. The advantage of the paint is its good decorative ability and a wide selection of shades.

Metal structure cladding technology

When you have decided on the wood and purchased lumber for cladding in the required quantity, you can begin installation. But before this, it is necessary to make accurate calculations and prepare tools, without which it is impossible to finish the staircase.

Necessary tool

To sheathe a metal staircase with wood with your own hands, you will need the following list of tools:

• hammer drill and screwdriver;
• jigsaw for cutting material;
• plane, file, sandpaper;
• hammer, rubber mallet, pliers;
• tape measure, building level;
• set of wrenches, self-tapping screws.

Metal frame cladding

When all the parts are carefully processed and ready for installation, we proceed to cladding the frame. The whole process looks like this:

1. We begin work by finishing the steps from bottom to top. To do this, we lay wooden treads and fix them with self-tapping screws. The caps of the fasteners should be deepened into the boards by half a centimeter.

2. Install risers. They must fit tightly to the frame; to fasten them we also use self-tapping screws with a metal drill.

Related article: How to make a staircase to the basement: the main stages of manufacturing using three examples

3. We begin assembling the fencing elements. The balusters are installed on the steps along the edges; we screw in the screws on the back side of the steps. It is advisable to place the supporting elements at intervals of 15-20 cm. Next, we attach the handrail to the installed balusters.

If desired, it is possible to sheathe the remaining visible parts of the frame with wood. But this finishing option is needed only if the metal structure has some defects.

Rear mounting

The peculiarity of this cladding method is that the wooden parts are laid on top of the frame, and the screws are screwed in from the back side. First you need to drill holes in the metal itself in the right places for fastenings. Just prepare a container with cold water in advance to cool the drill - often the metal in such frames has a thickness of 5-7 mm.

The diameter of the holes should be such that the self-tapping screws can easily pass through them in the future.

Next we move on to the installation of each step. Everything is very simple here. First you need to make a backing from plywood and fix it to the frame using mounting adhesive with a filling effect. Just don’t use polyurethane foam instead of glue - it dries out over time, which will lead to unpleasant squeaks.

We lay treads on top of the substrate and tighten them from the reverse side with self-tapping screws through pre-drilled holes in the metal. As for risers, the technology for their installation is no different from the process described above.

Work execution algorithm

1. First, decide on the appearance of your metal and wood staircase.

Will you sheathe only the steps or completely all the elements, including risers and side parts.

An important point: the size of the backing must be strictly the size of the metal part of the step, and the wooden overlay itself should protrude slightly beyond the cut of the metal. The protrusion is around 20 mm. The optimal thickness of the lining is about 30 mm.

Then the instructions and algorithm of actions are somewhat different.

• Drill through the trim and backing to a hole in the metal.
• Next, use a wood drill the size of a screw head and then widen the finished hole in order to recess the screw head. Subsequently, this recess is closed with special wooden furniture plugs and sanded. Self-tapping screws, when fastening from above, are taken on metal.

Note: fastening with self-tapping screws is quick and reliable, but if working with them is problematic for you, you can fasten with bolts, also recessing them into the trim and closing them with plugs. Moreover, if there is access from below, secure it with a nut; if not, you will have to cut the thread.

1. The next step is to attach the trim to the vertical opening between the steps. We attach it by analogy with the main overlay, the only thing is that we do not install a backing.

1. Next, we begin work with the balustrade. A staircase made of metal and wood without railings not only loses in design, but is also dangerous. Since railings come in different sizes, initially choose one that is comfortable for you.

The method described above is convenient, reliable, but not always practical. It is well suited for wide flights of stairs, but if the stairs are already narrow, and even the railings eat up to 100-150 mm, it will be extremely uncomfortable to walk.

In this case, with narrow stairs, the fence is attached to the side, at the end of the stairs, with anchors. The posts are fastened with two anchors, and a holder is attached under the balusters with one anchor, and the baluster is mounted into it.

1. The main work is done, all that remains is to sew up the side of the stairs. When you have done all of the above with your own hands, it will not be difficult for you to secure the side panel, since everything is similar here.

1. A metal staircase covered with wood will be unfinished if you do not cover the back side. No matter how carefully you try to do it, an uncovered back side will ruin the look. There are several methods; you can cover it with plasterboard or chipboard; some people like lining. If possible, you can simply install a built-in wardrobe under the stairs.

Rear side lining.

I would also like to say something about wood processing. The fact is that it is better to round off all sharp corners on wooden parts, and the main rounding work should be carried out even before installing the parts. After installation, you will slightly correct it with sandpaper and the staircase will take on a finished look.

Upon completion of all installation work, it should be stained to improve the appearance of the wood texture and opened with several layers of varnish.

A metal frame is simple and profitable

The base of the staircase is an iron frame. The choice in favor of such a basis is justified by several advantages.

Firstly, the strength of the metal profile from which the stringers, the frame of the turntable and the support posts of the stairs are welded. The strength characteristics of the metal make it possible to produce parts with a smaller cross-section. This makes the design look lighter and more elegant.

Secondly, metal parts are more technologically advanced to install - they are easy to cut, their joints are simpler, and they are easier to connect by welding together.

Advantages of stairs on a metal frame and 3 types of structures

A staircase on a metal frame is considered the most reliable and heavy-duty. You can make a staircase on a metal frame with your own hands. To build such a structure from metal, you will need to make drawings, as well as competently carry out the manufacture of the base of the frame. Below we will talk about what nuances will need to be taken into account.

Balustrade - staircase decoration

At the edge of the turntable there is a railing, forming a small balustrade. The same balustrade completes the staircase on the second floor, protecting the free opening between the junction with the wall and the railing of the upper flight.

Each step has two gracefully shaped balusters with spiral carved grooves. In addition to the balusters, the railings are supported by support posts fixed at the bottom and top of each flight of stairs.

The staircase still has an unfinished appearance, but it already stands out in the room with its warm “coffee with milk” color. Not all of the wooden parts of the staircase trim have been painted yet. Next, they are coated with varnish, which will not only improve the appearance. This is additional protection against wear, moisture penetration into the wood body, and antiseptic treatment.

Now pay attention to the cost of staircase trim. It amounted to only 45,768 rubles, excluding the cost of the metal frame.

This staircase option is a compromise between price and quality. Excellent quality for the low cost of material and labor combined.

Installation step by step

At the very beginning of the cladding, we determine whether additional fastening of the structure is required. Fasteners may be needed, for example, in a staircase with turning steps.

Installation can be done in 2 ways:

1. Laying steps on top of corners. And then we fasten it so that the corners of the stairs are hidden by board steps.
2. Fastening to corners welded to channels. Steps are laid into the resulting frames.

Examples of finished works

A worthy companion to metal - larch

But the advantage of any staircase is its appearance. There are different ways to decorate a staircase. We offer you a classic wood finish. Larch in this case is beautiful, durable and noble. The species of such wood is a worthy companion to metal in terms of durability and reliability. To cover the metal frame of the larch structure, you will need less, just enough so that the appearance is fully consistent with the classic canons of wooden stairs.

There are wide treads of sufficient thickness, under which risers are installed. Risers cover the free space of the step and make the appearance of the steps look like a monolithic wooden structure. All this is complemented by planking the frame of the stringer that carries the steps. The thickness of the cladding boards used is less than when making a staircase entirely from wood.

The staircase has two straight flights. On the lower flight you can see that the stringer has not yet been covered with boards. Another photo shows how the stringers of the upper flight of stairs are covered with boards.

Open skin – structural support remains visible

When creating a frame, a supporting base, you need to decide in advance whether the composition will be open or hidden. For a staircase in a house with an open frame, the structure of the steel structures, as well as the monolithic reinforced concrete base, must be thought out in advance - it remains visible. We must proceed from the fact that the load-bearing part should look impressive even without cladding.

For such open processing, a design on a metal frame is suitable. For example, steel steps are installed on open steel stringers. These steps (treads) are lined with wood, and to reduce the cost - with laminate. The facing material is attached to the metal structure with self-tapping screws, and in the absence of direct load, with glue. It is also possible to process reinforced concrete marches. Fastening to concrete is carried out using glue, using dowels; the planes are leveled with pads.

For a concrete structure lined with wood, the lower and even side surfaces of the marches can be left untreated. If necessary, finishing with wood or its equivalent can be carried out along the mounting rails. This laminate sheathing allows you to achieve the thickness required by design considerations.

The main point in covering the stairs in a house in an open way is to correctly determine what part of the metal/concrete structure should be left visible.

What to cover the metal frame with?

The frame made of corrosion-resistant materials (stainless steel, aluminum) can be left open, and it is better to sheathe the iron staircase on all sides

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The most common combination for a private home is metal and wood. For cladding, hard and soft wood is used (oak, beech, larch, pine, walnut). Advantages of wood for cladding:

• ease of processing;
• low thermal conductivity;
• high frost resistance;
• You can make the cladding yourself.

The shortcomings of wooden cladding can be corrected with protective impregnations

. When choosing, we recommend that you pay attention to the individual properties of each type of wood; treads should be finished with hard oak, beech, larch, while risers should be finished with cheaper soft pine, spruce, and fir.

Metal frames made of stainless steel or metal with galvanic treatment (chrome plating, brass plating) go well with glass. This is one of the home staircase options that looks natural in modern and traditional interior design styles. Steps, balusters, and railings are made of glass. To protect against falls, anti-slip pads are installed on the steps or sandblasted. Finishing a staircase with your own hands is very difficult - you need specialists who have experience, tools and equipment for working with glass.

WPC (wood-polymer composite board) is similar in texture, thermal conductivity, and color to wood, but without its disadvantages. High moisture resistance allows the material to be used for finishing street structures, flights for baths, saunas, and attics. Sheathing is not difficult to do yourself, without the involvement of installers, using an electric saw or a hacksaw to cut the boards and following the step-by-step technology for working with WPC. If you decorate a staircase with decking, it will last up to 50 years, will not fade in the sun, will not crack from impacts, and will not be worn out by constant walking. The surface is well washed from dirt.

The ends of inexpensive iron frames are covered with budget plasterboard. It is easy to cut and its surface can be processed.

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How to sheathe a metal frame step by step

To decorate an installed frame with wood yourself, you need tools and consumables:

• screwdriver;
• level, ruler, square;
• saw for cutting lumber;
• chisel or feather drill for marking and cutting grooves;
• glue, primer;
• screws, dowels, bolts;
• finishing coating.

What we do step by step

:

1. We prepare the parts with which we will cover the frame - we take measurements, markings, cutting steps, railings, balusters.
2. Let's prepare the base. We clean the steel from dust and dirt, and the iron surface from rust, treat the metal with leveling mastics and protective coatings. We are waiting for it to dry completely. We drill holes in the frame for fastening the elements and side trim.
3. Wood paneling of the stairs. We lay the steps, securing them with self-tapping screws (if there are risers, it is better to start facing them and then install the treads). We mark the places for the balusters, align the posts so that the upper edge forms a line parallel to the flight, and fasten them to the steps. We lay the handrail on top, attach it with glue and fasteners. If the iron frame needs to be closed, start sheathing it from the sides. Measure the board according to the height of the stringer, cutting out the grooves for the steps. Secure it to the frame with screws at least 60 mm long, every 30 cm. Then lay the steps, starting from the top, leveling them.
4. We cover the surface of the paintwork at least 2 times, applying each layer in stages, after the previous one has dried.

To prevent the steps from creaking, attach them to the frame on a plywood backing.

The greater the weight of the wooden cladding, the less noise the staircase makes.

Screw self-tapping screws with a 5 mm recess into the wooden surface. Seal the holes with mastic to match the color of the wood.

Required tools and materials

Woodworking tools

To sheathe the stairs yourself, you need to first prepare special tools. To work you will need:

• grinding and milling machine;
• screwdriver;
• hacksaws for metal and wood;
• level;
• hammer;
• jigsaw, drill;
• milling attachment;
• drill;
• level;
• construction plumb.

To protect yourself from minor injuries and dirt during the finishing process, you need to prepare special clothing.