How long does a staircase last?

A staircase should, of course, be optimally safe. Not only the staircase itself should be in good condition, but also everything else connected to it, such as the handrails. If you're considering buying a home, it's important to have the existing staircase inspected. This is especially the case if you have a building inspection carried out by Homekeur. The building inspection report will provide you with all the information about the condition of the staircase(s). We'd be happy to tell you more about the lifespan of a staircase.

The difference between different types of stairs

Stairs are certainly not standard. In practice, we encounter various types of stairs, both indoors and outdoors. Naturally, all stairs must be safe. After all, you don't want to take any risks. The most common type is a wooden staircase, which has an average lifespan of 40 years. We also see concrete staircases. Concrete has a very long lifespan, especially when it comes to high-quality structural concrete. Outdoors, we often find steel staircases, which also have a longer lifespan than wooden staircases. Steel staircases are usually powder-coated to prevent rust formation.

The wooden staircase is the most common

As mentioned, wooden stairs are the most common type of home in the Netherlands. So, if you're looking to buy a house, chances are it has one. It's important to know that not all wooden stairs are created equal. The average lifespan of a wooden staircase is 40 years, but some last much longer. For example, in old country houses, you'll often find wooden stairs that are hundreds of years old and still safe to use. Wooden stairs can be made of various types of wood, such as oak or pine. Hardwood stairs have the longest lifespan of all types.

Several factors influence the lifespan

When we look at the lifespan of a staircase, we see that it is significantly influenced by several factors. First and foremost, the level of wear is a key factor. It obviously makes a difference whether the staircase is used daily, how many people use it, and the specific loads it is subjected to. Maintenance also plays a significant role. A well-maintained staircase has a longer lifespan than one that remains unmaintained. This applies to all types of staircases, and certainly not just wooden ones.

Always have the stairs checked thoroughly!

A staircase can look good and still be a bit flawed. Therefore, it's important to have it properly inspected. Want to buy a home with certainty about its current condition, including the staircase(s)? Then choose a building inspection by Homekeur. We always offer you peace of mind with a building inspection report . Schedule an appointment online or contact us for more information and advice without obligation.

Would you like to make an appointment for a building inspection?

The cost of a building inspection (up to 250 m²) is only €489 including VAT. We'll conduct a comprehensive building inspection and you'll receive a building report. Do you have any questions? We're happy to help and can schedule an appointment with an expert inspector right away if you wish!

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