When planning a two-story home renovation or building from scratch, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing the right material for your staircase. It’s not just a matter of style — it’s about safety, durability, budget, and maintenance.
In this article, we’ll explore the most popular staircase materials, their pros and cons, cost per installation, and tips for making the best decision based on your home’s interior and lifestyle.
🏠 Why Staircase Material Matters
Your staircase is more than a functional structure — it’s often a central design element in your home. The material you choose affects:
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🛠️ Durability
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💰 Cost
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🧽 Ease of maintenance
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👣 Safety (especially for kids or elderly)
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🎨 Aesthetic appeal
Choosing the wrong material can result in unnecessary repairs, discomfort underfoot, or even safety risks. So let’s break it down.
🪵 1. Wooden Staircases: Classic and Warm
Wood is one of the most popular materials for indoor staircases, and for good reason.
✅ Pros:
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Natural and warm aesthetic
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Matches traditional, rustic, or modern interiors
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Easy to customize (paint, stain, carve)
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Durable when properly maintained
❌ Cons:
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Can creak over time
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Susceptible to humidity or termites (if untreated)
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Requires periodic refinishing
💲 Average Cost:
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$100–$250 per step
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Full staircase (standard 12–14 steps): $1,500–$5,000+
🔨 Common wood types: oak, maple, walnut, pine, cherry
🧱 2. Concrete Stairs: Durable and Modern
For those seeking an industrial or minimalist look, concrete stairs are a solid (pun intended) option.
✅ Pros:
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Extremely durable
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Fire-resistant
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Low maintenance
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Can be tiled or covered with wood for different looks
❌ Cons:
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Heavy (may require reinforced flooring)
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Cold and hard underfoot
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More expensive to install in finished homes
💲 Average Cost:
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$2,000–$5,000 for basic indoor concrete staircase
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Higher with finishes (tile, overlay, polish)
🧑🎨 3. Metal Staircases: Sleek and Modern
Steel or wrought iron staircases are often used in modern and loft-style homes.
✅ Pros:
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Long-lasting and strong
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Minimalist appearance
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Takes up less visual space (especially with open risers)
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Can be combined with wood or glass for mixed styles
❌ Cons:
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Can be noisy
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May require anti-slip coatings
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Cold appearance in traditional homes
💲 Average Cost:
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$3,000–$10,000 depending on design complexity
🪟 4. Glass Staircases: High-End and Stylish
Yes, glass staircases are a thing — especially in luxury modern interiors. Usually combined with metal or wood framing.
✅ Pros:
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Ultra-modern and sleek
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Makes spaces look larger
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Easy to clean and visually striking
❌ Cons:
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Expensive
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Can show dirt or scratches easily
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Requires tempered glass for safety
💲 Average Cost:
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$10,000–$25,000+ for full glass staircase with railing
Not practical for families with kids or pets — more of a statement piece.
🧬 5. Stone Staircases: Luxurious and Timeless
Marble or granite stairs create a feeling of elegance and permanence.
✅ Pros:
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Extremely durable
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Adds luxury appeal
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Stain and moisture resistant
❌ Cons:
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Very heavy (requires structural support)
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Expensive
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Slippery if not treated
💲 Average Cost:
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$5,000–$15,000+ depending on stone type and design
📊 Material Comparison Table
| Material | Style | Durability | Cost (12 steps) | Maintenance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | Traditional | Medium | $1,500–$5,000 | Medium | Great all-rounder |
| Concrete | Modern/Industrial | High | $2,000–$5,000 | Low | Best for long-term durability |
| Metal | Modern/Loft | High | $3,000–$10,000 | Low | Minimalist and durable |
| Glass | Luxury/Modern | Medium | $10,000–$25,000+ | High | Stunning but expensive |
| Stone | Luxury/Classic | Very High | $5,000–$15,000+ | Low | Elegant and solid |
🧩 Other Things That Affect Staircase Cost
Besides the material, several other factors influence the final price:
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🧱 Straight vs Spiral: Spiral staircases cost more to design/install
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🏗️ Custom vs Prefabricated: Custom work is pricier but more flexible
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🛠️ Labor and finish work: Sanding, painting, sealing, railing
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📍 Location: Labor costs in cities like Chicago are higher than in rural areas
🤔 So, Which Material Should You Choose?
If you want:
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Warmth & tradition → Go with wood
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Minimalist durability → Choose metal or concrete
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Luxury → Opt for stone or glass
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Budget-friendly → Basic wood or concrete
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Easy upkeep → Avoid wood and glass; choose metal or stone
Always balance aesthetics, function, and budget. If unsure, consult with a remodeling contractor to see what fits your home structurally and stylistically.
🛠️ Need Help Choosing or Installing a Staircase?
At Easy Remodeling, we help homeowners across the Chicago area design and build staircases that are both stunning and safe. Whether you’re upgrading a single floor or planning a full home remodel, our expert team will guide you through material selection, design, and installation.
📞 Get in touch for a free consultation and quote!
