FAQs

Yes, every model has a stringer/tread/riser bar/railing combination that meets code. However some combinations do not meet all local code requirements; it is the buyer’s responsibility to comply with their local code; ascend stairs can outline what elements would be required for local code compliance.

Typically, a made-to-order stair can be delivered 10-12 weeks after shop drawing approval (including design approval/order details & floor-to-floor height confirmation). If airfreight is approved, we can deliver 7 weeks after shop drawing approval.

ascend Stairs provides made-to-order products that have extensive, but limited options. We work with a great partner, st Scale. They have invested in processes that keep costs competitive; they also own a sawmill to cut their own lumber, eliminating the middleman. ascend stairs works to keep its marketing and distribution costs low, in order to pass those savings on to you.

We can deliver any configuration made up of straight flights, connected by landings. The vast majority of our stairs are configured in three basic ways: Straight Run or “I”; a 90° turn or “L” shape with a landing; and a 180° turn or “U” shape with one or two landings. We also supply spiral stairs and combinations of spiral and straight flights in a number of different configurations.

No, every stair requires a number of anchoring points into the structure. At a minimum, the departure and arrival points must be secured to the structure; all landings must be anchored as well. Along a straight run, our stairs require structural support every 4-5 treads. We have engineered horizontal stiffeners for some of our stairs to minimize those structural connections, but we can only determine that during the design phase.

The F 18 and F 20 railings are available for any interior stairs. There is a matrix available on the Railings/Options page that outlines all possible stair/railing combinations.

Yes, most railing models are available for purchase apart from the stairs.

Our standard tread width goes to 39 3/8”. The maximum tread width depends on the design/engineering. We have provided treads for commercial projects that are 54” wide and 11” deep.

Six of our models (Proxima, Modì, Freeform, Firenze, Vortex and Spirex) offer closed risers for an additional cost.

We offer 12 standard stain colors for beech treads, and 6 standard colors for oak treads. For a custom stain we recommend beech or oak treads with a sanded finish, ready for your unique stain color, applied by a professional. We can provide custom stains (approved by samples) for $100 per tread and may impact the lead time.

Steel for stringers and treads comes in 5 standard colors: white, grey, rust, sand and black as well as satin stainless steel. Custom colors are available for $140 per tread; it may also impact the lead time.

The stairs and railings are complete, made-to-measure products. Just as you completely pay for a kitchen or appliance before it is delivered, you must completely pay for the stairs. Our terms are: 35% deposit; 35% after signed shop drawings; final 30% and shipping to be paid prior to release and delivery from our warehouse.

Our manufacturer has developed efficient processes to build over 2000 staircases per year. The price difference is less a factor of the materials (wood and steel), and more a factor of the design time and throughput on the factory floor. The more that the stairs remain inside of “standard” sizes and configurations, the more affordable the stairs will be.