Floating Stairs in Renovations: Key Challenges and How to Overcome Them

When it comes to modern renovations, few features make a statement quite like floating stairs. Their sleek, minimalist appeal opens up interior spaces, enhances natural light, and transforms an ordinary staircase into a sculptural centrepiece. Yet behind the visual lightness of these open tread staircases lies complex engineering. Homeowners planning to remodel stairs often underestimate the precision and planning required to integrate floating steps into an existing structure.

That’s why partnering with experienced staircase experts early in the project is essential. From assessing wall strength to designing compliant support systems, early collaboration ensures your vision aligns with what’s structurally possible. A well-planned approach helps prevent costly modifications later and allows for a seamless blend of architecture, function, and craftsmanship. The good news? With the right expertise and preparation, it’s entirely possible to achieve this architectural showpiece without major structural upheaval.

Structural Integrity and Wall Reinforcement

One of the biggest challenges in any staircase renovation involving floating stairs is ensuring the structure can support the load. While some floating stairs are fully cantilevered (fixed at one end and unsupported at the other), many modern designs use a central or twin steel stringer for added strength. Each system places different demands on the surrounding structure, especially when integrating into an existing build.

Challenge: The existing wall or structure may be a lightweight partition or timber stud wall, insufficient to carry the torque and weight of floating treads. Without reinforcement, this can lead to movement, sagging, or structural damage over time.

Solution: The right reinforcement method depends on the floating stairs design. Cantilevered systems typically use a concealed steel frame within the wall to anchor each tread and transfer loads through the floor and ceiling. Central or twin-stringer designs rely on a robust steel structure securely fixed into the subfloor and wall framing for even load distribution. Additional structure may be required to support the stairs. These supports preserve the visual lightness of floating steps while ensuring lasting strength and safety.

Building Code Compliance

Floating stairs must meet strict safety and compliance standards under New Zealand building regulations. The open risers and minimal structure that make them visually stunning can also introduce safety risks if not properly designed.

The most relevant clauses are Clause D1 (Access Routes) and Clause F4 (Safety from Falling), which govern stair dimensions, tread visibility, landings, and handrail design.

Challenge: Ensuring compliance with building codes, including safe tread proportions, load-bearing capacity, and proper installation of handrails or balustrades. Non-compliant stairs can fail inspections or pose long-term hazards. Requirements differ slightly for residential (private) and common (shared) stairs, so make sure to consult professionals.

Solution: Work with a qualified structural engineer and an experienced staircase fabricator to confirm that your floating stairs design meets all local standards. Requirements such as maximum tread gaps, minimum handrail dimensions, and load capacity are essential considerations. Incorporating safety glass balustrades or sturdy handrails ensures both style and security.

Precision in Installation

Unlike traditional stairs, floating stairs demand exacting precision; there’s virtually no room for error. Each tread must be perfectly level, evenly spaced, and securely anchored to maintain both the illusion of weightlessness and the structural integrity of the system.

Challenge: Even slight misalignment or uneven spacing can disrupt the clean visual line of floating steps and affect weight distribution, leading to creaks, instability, or long-term structural stress. Inadequate fixing or inaccurate wall preparation can also compromise load-bearing capacity, especially in cantilevered designs where each tread must support dynamic forces independently. Misjudging the anchor depth, wall type, or material compatibility can result in deflection or failure, issues that are costly and complex to rectify once installation has begun.

Solution: Precision installation relies on laser-level measurements, custom jigs, and accurate on-site adjustments. Professional installers familiar with cantilevered and hidden-stringer systems ensure every component meets design and safety specifications. Early coordination between the engineer, builder, and stair manufacturer further guarantees that alignment, wall reinforcement, and fixing points are perfectly executed, delivering a seamless result that defines high-quality floating stairs design.

Managing Cost and Timeline

A floating staircase is an investment in both form and function. However, because it involves specialised materials, structural engineering, and precision installation, costs can rise quickly during renovation, particularly in existing homes where adjustments to the structure may be required.

Challenge: Hidden structural issues discovered mid-project can lead to unexpected expenses or timeline extensions. High-end materials such as solid oak, glass, or steel also require custom fabrication and expert handling, which can extend lead times. Council approvals and engineering certifications may further affect scheduling if not addressed early.

Solution: Begin with a comprehensive site assessment and have a structural engineer inspect walls, floors, and foundations to identify necessary reinforcements. Obtain detailed, itemised quotes that account for design, fabrication, and installation costs. These include potential contingencies for existing wall upgrades. Early coordination with designers, engineers, and installers helps streamline workflow, ensuring accurate budgeting, smoother approvals, and a realistic project timeline when you remodel stairs for a floating design.

Long-Term Maintenance and Durability

The minimalist appeal of floating stairs means every surface is visible, and every imperfection stands out. Durability and upkeep are therefore key considerations.

Challenge: Over time, treads can show wear, and exposure to humidity or temperature changes can affect wood or steel finishes.

Solution: Choose high-quality materials such as treated timber or powder-coated steel for lasting performance. Ask your contractors to apply protective coatings. Staircase installers can also perform regular inspections to check for movement or loose fittings. A well-maintained staircase will retain its elegance for decades while staying safe and solid.

Why Work with Ackworth House

With over 40 years of experience, Ackworth House specialises in designing and installing architectural staircases, like open tread staircases, that combine artistry with engineering precision. Our team understands how to remodel stairs and the complexities of integrating floating stairs into renovations, from structural reinforcement to finish detailing. 

We don’t just design accessories; we handle the entire staircase system, including balustrades, handrails, and structural elements, ensuring seamless compliance with New Zealand’s building codes.

Our end-to-end approach means every staircase is build-ready, compliant, and beautifully crafted. Whether you’re an architect, builder, or homeowner planning a staircase renovation, Ackworth House delivers complete confidence and exceptional design. Enquire today.