How To Build A Spiral Staircase

If you have limited space and want to create access to a loft or upper floor, a spiral staircase is an extremely efficient solution. Spiral staircases can be purchased prebuilt and installed in a home or they can be custom created out of wrought iron or wood.

Process
Before you begin any sort of work installing a spiral staircase, you should first apply for a building permit. In many cases, if you attempt to purchase a kit without a permit, it will not be shipped to you until you can show a valid building permit.

Next you will need to select a set of stairs. You can look at building magazines for ideas and order catalogs from manufacturers or can you find an online source if you want to buy a kit. You can also go to a local wrought-iron artisan to have a custom-designed spiral staircase created specifically for your interior space.

Step 1-Determine Location
Decide where you want to install the stairs. Start by either cutting a hole in the floor of the second level or by choosing a spot along the edge of the loft. Do not choose a location that is next to a wall, since this will make the installation difficult.

Step 2-Allow for Headroom
Set the stairs in place so that they have a headroom of at least 6 feet 6 inches.

Step 3-Measure for Clearance
Measure the height and diameter of the staircase. Make sure to include a clearance area of at least 2 inches from any walls and the floor for the handrail.

Step 4-Measure for Tread Height
Measure the outside of the steps to calculate the tread height.

Step 5-Cut Treads
Cut the treads for the staircase all at the same time, using a pattern that you have made. The treats should be no wider than 4 inches. You will be gluing the risers together, so vary the wood grain as you glue the pieces together after you have sanded the edges smooth.

Step 6-Cut Center
Use a band saw to make the circular cut for the inner center circular cut.

Step 7-Mount Center Pole
Mount the center pole to the floor. Make sure that it is level and securely attached to the floor and does not move back and forth.

Step 8-Weld Steps to Pole
Weld the top and bottom steps to the pole. Install the rest of the steps and attach them to the pole.

Step 10-Install Railing
Purchase a railing that is specifically designed for a spiral staircase since it is extremely difficult to fabricate unless you have special skills as a carpenter or other artisan experienced in making this kind of railing. Install as directed.

Spiral staircases offer attractive way to access a tight space. If you have high ceilings, you may even find that a spiral staircase will allow you to build a loft in a room where a full-sized staircase is not possible.