Home remodeling: Can you move a staircase?

People think that moving a staircase is a huge task – but actually, architects do this all the time. Let’s explore this in depth:

In many homes, the staircase is not in the ideal location and can feel awkward and in the way. The majority of folks simply put up with an out-of-place staircase, mistakenly believing that it is extremely difficult or even impossible to relocate the staircase. 

This is a common misconception among homeowners and a staircase relocation is actually easier than you think! This article will discuss the ins and outs of moving your staircase and how you can make this work in your living space to create a better overall look. 

Pick the most suitable design of staircase for your home. 

Moving your staircase is only half the job and it is a good idea to evaluate which style of staircase would be best suited to your particular home.  

In many cases, it is completely possible to simply relocate the staircase without any style redesign. To refresh the look of an otherwise old and tired-looking staircase, you may wish to consider switching out some of the accessories, such as the handrails, balusters or newel posts. By changing out a few accessories, you can update the look of your staircase. 

If you are not sure how to go about picking out the best staircase design, try browsing online for inspiration or consult with your local staircase professional. 

Decide on the new location for your staircase. 

Once you have determined which staircase design is right for your home, you will need to decide upon a new location for your staircase. This is usually the most difficult step as a lot of thought and planning needs to go into this decision. 

For a more open and airy feel, a staircase close to the wall is a great option. If your staircase was previously in the center of the area, moving it to a corner can create plenty of much-needed storage and living space. 

Your next step will be to evaluate the area at the top of your staircase and to remove the flooring to have a look at the joists that are supporting the floor. These should be marked so that you know where they are later on.

At this point in the remodeling project, you are still able to use your old staircase. 

Work on your new staircase opening. 

Now, you will need to determine where you would like your new staircase opening to be and to cut your joists. You will then be able to install your new posts at the entrance to the new staircase opening. 

The joists play a vital function in that they provide support to your floor while you are working on the relocation of your stairs. 

Experts recommend that it is wise to have around 100 mm of joists protruding out of the wall. In this way, you will be able to attach support posts to it and fasten them to your new top beam. Note that a beam will also need to be attached at the top section of your supporting posts. 

Construct a wall. 

Your next step will now be to insert some insulation between the posts on your current wall and then to cover them with dry wall. In doing so, you will be allowing your new stairs’ load to spread across this new wall. 

Your new stairs are now ready to be moved into the new position which is the most exciting part of the entire project! This is also the moment when you will discover if your measurements have been accurate. 

The staircase wall. 

Now is the time when you will be able to remove your temporary wall- that is, if you do not want a wall alongside the new staircase. You will also be able to add your staircase accessories at this point. 

If you wish to keep your staircase wall, you will need to fill in any gaps with insulation and to create a smooth and flawless finish by dry walling each side. Although you have a wall, it is still necessary to have a handrail for climbing and descending the stairs. 

Redesign the old staircase space. 

The final step in your staircase relocation will be to remove the old staircase and all its accessories. Battens should be inserted between the staircase joists and you may then fix some plywood over these for your new floor. 

As can be seen from the above, relocating your old staircase is a complex and multi-step process. However, if you plan the project carefully and accurately, you should have no trouble.