Extensions & Conversions · Updated 2026
Staircase cost
Typical range£1,500–£30,000· Average new timber staircase (straight)
New staircase installation and replacement costs for 2025. In the UK, expect to pay between £1,500 and £30,000, with the typical project around £3,500 (average new timber staircase (straight)). Regional variation, specification tier and site access conditions all shift the final quote.
Quick answer: Staircase cost in the UK typically costs between £1,500 and £30,000 (Average new timber staircase (straight)). London and the South East run 20–35% above this range; the North, Wales and most of Scotland sit 5–15% below.
Homeowners researching this typically also price up plastering cost. For wider context, browse our bathroom pricing, kitchen pricing and boiler & heating costs.
Cost table
Indicative price ranges (UK, GBP)
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Straight pine staircase (budget) — Basic pine treads, painted spindles | £1,500–£3,000 |
Straight oak staircase — Solid oak treads, oak newels and handrail | £3,000–£6,000 |
Quarter-turn staircase (oak) — Changes direction, landing | £5,000–£10,000 |
Glass balustrade staircase — Modern, frameless glass panels | £6,000–£15,000 |
Floating / feature staircase — Cantilevered treads, design statement | £10,000–£30,000 |
Labour costs
Labour typically accounts for 45% of the total project cost in the UK.
Labour line items
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Staircase fitter (per day) | £250–£400/day |
Structural carpenter | £250–£380/day |
Decorator (treads/handrail) | £300–£800 |
Materials costs
Materials and fittings make up the remainder of the budget, with specification tier driving most of the variation.
Materials & fittings
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Pine staircase kit | £500–£1,500 |
Oak staircase (straight) | £1,200–£3,500 |
Glass balustrade panels (per m) | £200–£600/m |
Stair spindles (per box) | £40–£120/box |
Oak handrail (per m) | £25–£80/m |
Factors affecting cost in the UK
- ·Region — London and the South East run 15–30% above national averages.
- ·Specification tier — premium materials and finishes can double the base cost.
- ·Access and site conditions — flats, restricted parking and listed buildings add time.
- ·Scope changes mid-project — late design decisions are the biggest cost overrun driver.
- ·Trade availability — quotes rise 10–20% in peak spring and summer months.
Ways to reduce cost
- ·Choose a standard softwood staircase from a joinery merchant rather than bespoke.
- ·Reuse the existing opening size to avoid floor and ceiling alterations.
- ·Specify pine and paint rather than oak — comparable look at 50% of the cost.
- ·Use stock balustrades and spindles rather than custom turned.
- ·Combine staircase replacement with a planned loft conversion to share trades.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does staircase installation take?
- Replacing a straight staircase takes 1–3 days. A quarter-turn or bespoke staircase takes 3–5 days. Floating or glass balustrade staircases can take up to 2 weeks including structural work and finishing.
- Do I need building regulations for a new staircase?
- Yes — new staircases must meet Part K of the Building Regulations, covering headroom (minimum 2m), tread depth (minimum 220mm), riser height (maximum 220mm), and balustrade spacing (maximum 100mm gap).
- What is the most popular staircase style?
- Oak staircases with painted spindles or oak-turned spindles remain the most popular choice in the UK. Glass balustrades have grown significantly in popularity for modern homes and open-plan loft conversions.