One of the questions we get time and time again is, can you have a spiral staircase for a loft conversion? Many homeowners like the idea of using a spiral staircase for loft conversion access but have reservations about the potential disadvantages or aren’t sure if they’re allowed to have one in the first place.
We’ve put together the guide below to let you know about the pros and cons of a spiral loft staircase as well as the potential costs involved and the regulations you should follow:
Can You Have a Spiral Staircase to a Loft Conversion?
Yes, you can definitely have a spiral staircase for a loft conversion as long as that staircase complies with the building regulations for loft stairs. This type of design is especially convenient for smaller spaces as it’ll maximise your usable area while still allowing you to access the space easily.
Spiral Staircase for Loft Conversion Regulations
There is a lot that goes into regulations for loft conversion stairs, but as a general guide, the main requirements to keep in mind are:
- Minimum headroom of 2 metres
- Maximum pitch of 42 degrees
- Handrails with a height of 900mm-1000mm above the pitch line
- Landing at least as wide and long as the narrowest part of the staircase
If you’d like to learn more about loft conversion staircase regulations, feel free to check out our dedicated blog on the topic. Alternatively, have a look at the official UK loft conversion regulations on stairs.
Pros of a Spiral Staircase for Loft Conversion
There are many pros spiral loft staircases offer that we’ve seen clients enjoy over the years. As we’ve already mentioned, spiral loft staircases are a great option if you’re limited on space since they have a small footprint and ascend vertically as opposed to traditional staircases. What this leaves you with is a lot of extra loft space to use as you please!
However, that’s not the only benefit of spiral loft staircases. Consider also:
A Spiral Staircase Loft Conversion Looks Modern and Aesthetically Appealing
No one can argue with the fact that spiral loft staircases look beautiful. Their elegant shape combined with the minimalist materials (e.g. metal) often used for this type of staircase give you a contemporary look that’s harder to achieve with traditional staircases.
It’s Easy to Install a Spiral Staircase into a Loft
It may not look like it, but spiral loft staircases are actually relatively easy to install, especially for professionals. There are a few reasons for this, but the main factors are that they often come in modular kits and that they use a central pole for support as opposed to traditional staircases that may need more extensive structural support.
A Spiral Loft Staircase Is an Affordable Option
The smaller footprint and amount of material needed for a spiral loft staircase, as well as the simplicity of the structure often result in lower labour costs. What we’ve mentioned above regarding ease of installation also contributes to this. Unless you’re looking for a custom design, a spiral staircase for a loft conversion is likely to be one of the most affordable options.
Cons of a Spiral Staircase for Loft Conversion
If you’re considering getting a spiral staircase for loft access, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons and, as anything else, spiral staircases have potential disadvantages:
Spiral Loft Staircases and Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, a spiral staircase can make it harder to exit the space as quickly as possible as it can be a bit more difficult to navigate and slow individuals down, especially children and the elderly. However, this is not to say that spiral staircases can’t be used safely in emergency situations, just that they’re maybe not ideal.
A Loft Apartment With Spiral Staircase Can Hide Risks of Falls
Spiral staircases are usually steeper and have narrower threads, which, combined with their spiral shape, means they carry a higher risk of loss of balance and falls. Visibility can also be limited on some of these staircases especially if poorly lit. If you or anyone who’ll be using your loft is prone to dizziness or doesn’t have very good balance, a spiral staircase is probably not the best option.
Spiral Loft Staircases and Mobility Issues
Due to being steeper and narrower than traditional staircases, spiral staircases require more effort to climb and may not be the best option for those with mobility issues such as:
- Poor balance/vertigo
- Poor coordination
- Muscle weakness
This doesn’t mean, however, that the design can’t be altered to make the stairs easier to climb. Depending on the size of your loft, the staircase can be widened and/or amended so that it’s not as steep.
How Much Does a Spiral Staircase for a Loft Conversion Cost?
As a general guide, loft conversion staircases, including spiral staircases, can cost anywhere between £2,000 and £10,000. The cost will depend on many factors which include the type of loft conversion itself and whether or not you’re looking for a custom design. The best way to find out how much the spiral loft staircase you’re looking for would cost is to get in touch with our team for a quick, free quote.
Is a Spiral Loft Staircase the Right Choice for You? Get Professional Advice!
If you’re thinking of installing a spiral staircase for loft conversion access, contact our team now for a quick and easy quote. Our loft staircase specialists have plenty of experience in helping individuals and families find the best staircase option for their loft conversion, including spiral loft staircases.
Contact our team now to find out more or get started bringing your dream loft staircase to life!
