Do-It-Yourself Spiral Stairs

Spiral stair materials include wood, aluminum, iron or a combination of materials.

Some homeowners install spiral staircases on the interior or exterior to add a bit of flair to a room. A spiral staircase may also represent the best choice when space is limited. A person with advance do-it-yourself (DIY) carpentry skills, or metal fabrication abilities, can build the staircase from scratch. However, most people who take on DIY spiral stair projects purchase a spiral staircase kit.

Things You'll Need

• Spiral staircase kit
• Measuring tape
• Circular saw
• Drill
• 2-by-6-inch planks
• Pencil
• Carpenter's level
• Sandpaper
• Primer
• Paint

Instructions

1. Check with the local building code inspector to learn the requirements for installing a spiral staircase. For example, many local codes require the diameter of the stairs to have a minimum diameter of 5 feet. In addition, the height of the stairs and width must meet certain specifications. Railings must also have a minimum height, and spindles maximum allowable spacing.

2. Measure the floor-to-floor height. This figure determines the specifications for the stairs. Consult with the kit supplier before purchasing to ensure the product meets local building codes. Obtain a work permit before starting the installation.

3. Remove the floor/ceiling coverings as necessary. Cut the subfloor with a circular saw adjusted to a depth of the subfloor thickness. Do not cut the floor joists. Install 2-by-6 bracing under the joists, on each side of the joists to be removed, before proceeding to cut the well opening.

4. Assemble the spindles and other components as necessary before proceeding with the installation. Drop a plumb line from the center of the opening and mark the point on the lower surface. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for positioning the base plate. Secure the base plate to the floor. Insert the center pole into the base plate.

5. Slide the treads in place from the top end of the pole. Stagger the treads in opposite directions to help keep the pole balanced. Lower the landing in place from the top end of the pole. Secure the landing according to the instructions. Check the level of the landing with a carpenter's level before making the final tightening of the bolts provided by the manufacturer.

6. Start at the top of the stair landing, on the side you will walk down, to install the first spindle. The spindles are the vertical components that fit between the top railing and the treads. Bolt the spindles to the landing and treads according to the instructions.

7. Secure the handrail to the attachment mechanisms on the top of the spindles. Attach the railing to the landing, center pole and wall. Secure the pole cap to the top of the center pole. Check all bolts and other fasteners to ensure proper tightening. Install edging on the landing and protective caps on the fasteners. Sand scratched surfaces, prime and paint the areas as necessary.

References

• The Iron Shop; Spiral Staircase Installation Manual
• Salter Spiral Stair; Information Needed to Design Your Spiral Staircase