Staircases

Stairs are complex elements that are built to last. However, sometimes they have to be removed from a building: for example, if the circulation system is changed or if the building is demolished. Some stairs can be salvaged and end up on the reuse market. Many suppliers offer different types of stairs for sale. Wooden stairs are transported in their entirety from the original building, while stone stairs are disassembled step by step (see also 'Natural stone elements’). Metal stairs are available either as a whole or step by step.

To integrate a reused staircase into an architectural project, it is often necessary to adapt the design of the building or room to the staircase in question.

Documentation

Interior staircases

It is usually possible to dismantle wooden staircases, especially if they have been assembled without glue. The stringers, treads, risers, balusters and handrail can be disassembled and salvaged. However, this requires excellent preparation and coordination. For smaller staircases, it is often easier to recover them in one piece - and this is the form in which they are sometimes found at some dealers.

There are also cast iron or steel internal staircases, both straight and spiral, which are usually sold as individual pieces.

Metal exterior staircases

It is common to find metal staircases on the reclamation market that were used as fire escapes. They are usually found as complete flights, sometimes even with the corresponding landing. Relatively handy and easy to dismantle, they make good candidates for reuse.

Antique (cast iron) staircases

Some companies are specialised in antique cast iron stairs (usually spiral stairs), which can be disassembled and reinstalled either step by step or completely. These staircases are particularly sought after because of their very specific appearance. Antique stairs made from other materials (wood, stone, etc.) also exist.