How much does a new staircase cost?

A well-built staircase should make it easy for you to move between floors and complete your space. If your staircase is starting to become unsafe, it’s time to upgrade it with a new and improved staircase. 

The cost of building a new staircase ranges from $900 to $7,500 for supply and installation. This could still increase depending on the type of staircase, the material to be used, your location and the size of the staircase.

It’s easy to get lost in costs and spiral away with the many options out there. Make more informed choices and read through our comprehensive price guide to find out how much it costs to renovate a staircase.

New staircase price list

Factors that affect the cost of a new staircase

Staircase design

A straight staircase is a cheap and popular option that can go as low as $900 for timber material. Floating staircases are more expensive starting at $4,300 due to their more complex design. 

Size of the staircase

The size and scale of the staircase would affect how much it costs to build a new staircase. The further the height of the stairs between the levels, the more expensive it will be since it will require more labour and materials. The number of steps and the length and width of each step should also be considered.

Location in your home

Main, attic, or basement? The average cost of a staircase depends on its location in your home. Main staircases are often the most expensive while attic staircases are the most budget-friendly.

Labour costs

Home builders usually charge $40 to $50 per hour. However, this also varies on the type of tradesmen you will hire for the project, their level of skill, and the complexity of the project. Moreover, the demolition of old stairs costs anywhere between $300 and $1,900.

External staircase costs may also vary. If you need help managing the project, you may also hire a general contractor to help oversee it for you.

Material and type

From softwood to glass, metal to concrete, you can choose from various materials for your staircase. Regardless of the design, softwood is the cheapest among all materials. Hardwood can go up depending on what type, while glass, stone, and concrete are on the higher end of costs. Below is a table of material costs without labour. You’ll need to ask your contractor for their rate. 

Timber

Timber staircase costs are dictated by the type of wood. Pine is the cheapest while more native varieties like Tasmanian Oak, Jarrah, Victorian Ash, and Ironbark cost more. Overall, the average cost of a timber staircase is around $4,200. Despite the higher costs, timber remains a popular choice due to its durability, versatility, and lifespan.

Metal

On average, metal staircase costs range from $1,000 to $2,100. This is one of the most budget-friendly long-lasting options. It is also customisable and comes in various design options, such as straight, spiral, floating, curved, flared, and circular. However, it requires maintenance such as waxing and coating to prevent rust and keep it in tip-top shape.

Concrete

Concrete staircases are known for their ease of installation and strength. It is resistant to rotting, cracks, and other extreme conditions like fire or calamity). All these come at a cost as concrete is one of the most expensive materials starting at $2,000. 

Marble

Besides their durability, marble staircases are known for their timeless, classic, and luxurious style. Like concrete, it is a long-lasting material that can withstand fires, calamities, and other conditions. However, stone staircases are more expensive at around $30 to $200 per square metre. It also takes time to build and install.

Glass

Glass staircases cost around $15 to $200 per square metre and are often combined with wood or metal to enhance the final look. This type enhances indoor lighting and provides an illusion of a bigger space. It is also easier to clean than other types. However, glass staircases are also prone to cracking, which can be a safety issue, especially if you have kids.

Planning permission and building regulations

Generally, council approval is not required in Australia as long as the staircase installation does not significantly alter the house’s exterior and tear down load-bearing walls.

However, this does not mean that you are free to install any staircase design and type that you like. To ensure a staircase is safe, sturdy, and reliable, the National Construction Code has regulations you must follow when building internal staircases. Adhering to the code gives you the peace of mind that your new staircase won’t result in safety issues in the long run.

You can also talk to a building consultant to help ensure your project complies with building regulations even before the inspection. 

Additional costs to consider

As you get a few steps closer to your dream staircase, you might encounter additional work that leads to additional costs. To avoid unexpected spending, we’ve listed the cost of each additional item below.

Post a task for staircase renovation

Installing your new staircase doesn’t have to be stressful! Whether you need a straight, spiral, or metal staircase, a staircase renovation professional can help build it for you. All you have to do is create a task on our platform. Include necessary details, such as your preferred staircase design and material, location and schedule, and get a personalised quote in minutes!