Over the last couple of years more and more people have been choosing to install glass stairways in their homes or places of work, whereas even as close as 10-15 years ago it would just not have been seen as viable. This is down to a few reasons, such as the overall changes that have been made in architectural fashion, as well as the vast improvements that have been made to glass strength which enables it to be used for structural purposes.
Before committing to a glass staircase yourself though, it is always a good idea to assess what the main benefits might be. Take a look at the top 5 benefits below and then make up your mind:
They’re aesthetically pleasing
There is no doubt that, as a culture, we definitely find glass more attractive than most other materials. Whether this is because, like magpies, we are attracted to pretty, glistening things or some other reason, the fact is undeniable. Glass staircases look lovely. They look fashionable and modern and this in itself makes them all the more desirable. Why else would Apple get on board the bandwagon and install in most, if not all, of their stores, glass stairways?
Glass staircases are unique and so eye-catching that they not only attract more customers, if installed in a commercial store but they are also a definite talking point for visitors when installed in the home.
They create the illusion of more space
Most people will be aware of the fact that putting large mirrors up in corridors or in small rooms has the positive effect of making those spaces look larger. The same is true if you install a set of glass stairs. As they do not have the same somewhat bulky look that other staircases made of stone or wood might have and they are transparent, they make whatever room or space they are installed in look a lot larger.
They’re durable
Whilst glass is typically thought of as delicate and unviable for certain structures that are being used every day, this is actually untrue. Glass is extremely durable and in some cases even more so than wood, especially when the glass has been designed with something like a flight of steps in mind, as it will not only be very thick but also toughened in a specific manner to ensure its long life. Glass staircases are also not subject to rot or colour fade, as wooden ones are and so you can count on them to look good even after 5 years of solid use.
They’re easy to clean
Music to any homemaker or cleaner’s ears is that flights of stairs made of glass are actually a lot easier to clean than wooden ones. This is because not only does glass not attract as much dust as wood but all you need to clean them is simple, cheap glass cleaner and a cloth. Cleaning wooden stairwells requires a lot more effort due to having to match the colour of the wood to the wood wax or cleaning fluid that you buy.
They’re versatile
As previously mentioned stairs that are made of glass can be suitably installed in both the home and in places of work. They can be designed and installed to a huge variety of different specifications whether your home or office requires a huge curved stairwell up four flours, a modern spiral or a more traditional vertical version.
No matter what kind of style you choose, glass stairs can’t help but make the space they’re in look modern and sophisticated and make those who view them, think of the company, such as Apple or the owner of the household, as very cutting edge.
Dave Harrison writes for Seagull Balustrades and is also an interior designer and home decorating expert. He is a keen dog lover and is often found throwing a frisbee for his dog, Munchkin.
