A stairway is an important element of the home and should be planned carefully. Thought should go into access needed, whether large items will need to be carried up the stairs, the age of the people who will use the stairways and the impression the stairway will create. Spiral staircases can be a very attractive addition to allow access to the next floor but can be difficult for access.

Fold away stairs are often used for access to roofs or loft storage.

When planning a new or upgraded stairwell it is important to take the following into consideration:

• Cost
• Type of area requiring access
• Amount of potential use
• Whether you want the stairs to climb straight up or turn at one or more landings
• The type of handrail — timber, wrought iron, wrought iron with timber handrail, etc.
• The type of treads — if you are going to carpet fully less expensive timber can be used but if the timber is exposed or partly exposed with a central runner you will need to decide on the type of timber you require.