Stair Stringers: What are they and how do they differ?

A stair stringer is essentially the backbone of your staircase. Traditionally, two timber stringers run in parallel with each other, traversing one level to another: with treads and risers spanning across them.

Steel Prevails

The increased use of steel in staircases has given birth to a whole host of possibilities in stringer design. The strength of steel means that much slimmer sections can span the same distance and with fewer supports.

A steel stringer can be made of flat plate, tube, box sections or even beams and channels (structural sections). Not only this, but we can have a singular (mono) stringer, curved stringers or even completely custom shaped stringers: thanks to the technology in the metal fabrication industry today.

But how does a steel stringer look?

The beauty is, a steel stringer can fit all types of aesthetic, they can even be invisible if you prefer. No, there’s no magic involved but clever detailing and early planning can allow you to create a “floating” stair, where a stringer is hidden inside your wall. (Below)

Steel as material allows us to really get creative, just take a look at the variety between two stringer designs below.

If you can’t already tell, Feo Browne are passionate about the limitless possibilities found in modern staircase design. A staircase is the number one opportunity to make a visual impact and a lasting impression on a building.

When you're ready to invest in a staircase that defines your space, get in touch for a consultation — and discover what’s truly possible.