Cantilevered stairs are a staircase system in which one end of each individual step is connected to the wall by means of steel pins of bolts. Finally constructed steps give a floating stair appearance.
Cantilevered stairs can be constructed using different materials hence creating different impressions. They can be made out of stainless steel, woods, stones, concrete or glass materials.
A brief idea on how to construct the cantilever steps, its pros and cons along with trendy cantilever steps based on different materials are explained.
How to Construct Cantilever Steps?
Each step that must be assembled comes with a tread, brackets, bolts and also a telescopic support stud. Initially, the stud is installed into the beam (steel or concrete made) in such a way that the brackets protrude outwards. This is followed by the construction of the walls around the brackets. The completed steps are bolted in place.
The cantilever steps must be designed by a structural engineer in order to maintain rigidity and horizontal level of the steps.
The figure-2 below shows the installation of a wooden cantilever stair by means of resin anchors.
Different installation and anchoring methods are developed with time that facilitates easy installation of prefabricated steps.
Advantages of Cantilever Steps
The main advantages of cantilever steps are mentioned below:
- Cantilever gives a pleasing appearance
- The staircase appears to be light.
- The steps allow to let light to pass through different level
- The steps on a whole provide a floating appearance
Disadvantages of Cantilever Steps
The main disadvantages of cantilever stairs are:
- Huge loads result in the end to sag.
- These structures do not appear very strong and sturdy
- Most of the cantilever staircase system avoids balustrade, which is a dangerous decision.
- The gaps between each step may feel uncomfortable for some occupants.
Different Cantilever Steps Based on Material
Different cantilever steps based on material are:
1.Wooden Cantilever Steps
This system does not use solid wood steps. It uses wood-clad steel studs that are fixed to the steel beam that is installed on the wall.
The stringer that supports the steps can be constructed either hidden or exposed.
2. Stainless Steel Cantilever Stairs
Here, steel ribbon stairs are installed to the steel beam on the wall by anchoring.
3.Glass Cantilever Stairs
Glass treads are gaining popularity nowadays. They allow the sunlight to filter down to different levels of the steps. Mostly toughened glass is used for the construction of glass steps.
Also Read: Requirement of Staircase