How to choose the right staircase: metal, metal and wood, or metal and glass?

A staircase is much more than just a functional element: it's a centerpiece of your interior or exterior, combining aesthetics, robustness, and practicality. Among the most popular materials, metal—alone or combined with wood or glass—offers endless possibilities, both in terms of design and technical aspects. But how do you make the right choice between an all-metal staircase, a metal and wood combination, or a metal and glass combination?

Here is a complete guide to help you decide.

1. Why choose a metal staircase?

Metal (steel, aluminum, stainless steel) is appealing because of its many qualities:

• Strength and durability : Ideal for both indoor and outdoor stairs, metal is resistant to shocks, moisture and time.

• Modern and sleek design : Perfect for contemporary, industrial or minimalist interiors.

• Easy maintenance : A simple cleaning is all it takes to keep it shiny.

• Customization : Shapes, colors, finishes… the options are almost unlimited.

Disadvantages : May seem cold or noisy without proper treatment (coating, association with other materials).

2. Metal and wood staircase: a warm and timeless combination

Combining metal and wood allows for a balance of robustness and user-friendliness. Here are the advantages of this combination:

• Warm aesthetic : Wood softens the sometimes cold look of metal, ideal for Scandinavian, rustic or traditional interiors.

• Comfort : Wooden steps are more pleasant to the touch and reduce footstep noise.

• Versatility : Adapts to all styles, from industrial loft to country house.

Points to consider :

• Choose a resistant wood (oak, beech, teak) and treated against moisture if the staircase is outdoors.

• Plan for regular maintenance of the wood (varnish, oil).

Association ideas :

• Black steel frame + solid oak steps.

• Metal railing + wooden risers and stringers.

3. Metal and glass staircase: elegance and transparency

The combination of metal and glass is synonymous with modernity and lightness. Here's why you should choose this solution:

• Spectacular visual effect : The glass creates an impression of space and brightness, perfect for small interiors or open spaces.

• Clean design : Ideal for contemporary homes, offices or public spaces.

• Easy maintenance : The glass is easy to clean and resists fingerprints.

Points to consider :

• The glass must be safety glass (tempered or laminated) and non-slip.

• Higher budget than a classic staircase.

• It may seem less warm without wooden or textile elements.

Association ideas :

• Stainless steel structure + transparent glass steps.

• Metal railing + frosted glass risers.

4. Selection criteria: how to decide?

A. According to custom

• Heavy-duty use (home, office): Opt for the robustness of pure metal or metal and wood.

• Design effect (loft, contemporary space): Opt for metal and glass.

• Exterior : Choose treated metal (galvanized steel, aluminum) and avoid untreated wood.

B. According to space

• Small space : Spiral or quarter-turn staircase in metal and glass to gain lightness.

• Large volume : Straight or spiral staircase in metal and wood for a majestic effect.

C. According to the budget

• Economical : Metal frame + standard wooden steps.

• High-end : Custom-made metal + tempered glass or exotic wood.

D. According to style

• Industrial : Raw metal, black or rust finish.

• Modern : Metal and glass, clean lines.

• Warm : Metal and wood, natural finishes.

  
  

5. Comfort and safety: leave nothing to chance

Whatever your choice, prioritize comfort:

• Step height : Between 16 and 21 cm.

• Tread (depth): Between 24 and 32 cm.

• Guardrail : Minimum height of 90 cm, bar spacing ≤ 11 cm.

• Anti-slip : Required for glass or smooth metal steps.

6. Maintenance and durability

• Metal : Clean regularly with a damp cloth. Treat against rust if necessary.

• Wood : Apply a protective varnish or oil 1 to 2 times a year.

• Glass : Use a non-abrasive glass cleaner to avoid streaks.

  
  

Conclusion: Which staircase for which project?

• For a modern and bright interior : Metal and glass staircase.

• For a blend of robustness and warmth : Metal and wood staircase.

• For an outdoor or industrial space : Staircase made entirely of treated metal.

  
  

Feel free to request a quote, advice or a 3D plan using our CAD software before making your decision.

A well-chosen staircase is a lasting investment, combining safety, comfort and aesthetics.

And you, what type of staircase are you considering for your project?

Share your ideas in the comments!