When it comes to designing your dream home, it’s important not to overlook the staircase. Often one of the first things that is seen upon entering a home, a staircase can be both practical and elegant. In the decision regarding glass vs wood staircases, there are a number of factors to consider. Read on to get a sense of what to expect with each type of staircase.
Glass Staircases
When it comes to staircases, many people may be unaware that glass is an option. You certainly won’t find glass staircases in traditional homes, but if you are looking for a real pop to your décor, then glass is worth considering.
Glass staircases can be seen in more modern homes. They compliment a clean, minimal design. This is because glass can appear to float instead of being tied down to the wall. Glass is transparent which results in light filtering through the material. If your stairwell has architectural features that you don’t want hidden, then glass stairs will allow these elements to shine through. In the debate of glass vs wood staircases, glass definitely wins when it comes to an airy, open concept.
One key point about glass staircases is that you can decide to have just the stairs themselves be glass, just have the walls of the staircase be glass, or have all the elements glass. There are many combinations to be had, so if you’re not sure you want a completely glass look, you don’t have to go all out.
Wood Staircases
With regards to glass vs wood staircases, the choice will inevitably fall towards wood. Wood is timeless. It is durable. And it is welcoming. Wood is also versatile so no matter what style you are looking for in a staircase, you can find it with wood.
When it comes to deciding what type of wood you would like used in a staircase, the options are almost limitless. Ash, beech, and white oak are some of the more popular economical choices. This gives you a nice range of colors to choose from, and all are durable. For mid-price range choices, think birch, maple, chestnut, and red oak. With these you get not only deep colors, but beautifully patterned markings as well. Finally, if you have lavish, expensive tastes, then you can opt for mahogany or teak.
Once a wood is picked out, next comes the stain. Remember that most wood is beautiful on its own, so the stain should enhance its natural colors, rather than mask them. Make it so that your wood staircase truly stands out.
With wood staircases, there are a number of design choices to be made. Will the steps float or will the be more traditional and tied to a riser? Will the railings match the steps or be a different material altogether, like metal? Again, the possibilities are endless, so be sure to talk to a company design expert before making any final decisions. They can show you samples and guide you through the decision process. Also note that your staircase should ultimately fit in with your current décor.
