When choosing the right material for your stairs, there are many factors to consider. Concrete and steel are durable and long-lasting materials that can provide years of use. However, some key differences between the two may influence your decision.

Concrete vs Steel Stairs

There are many factors to consider when deciding between concrete and steel stairs. Strength, durability, cost, and aesthetics are all important factors. Here, we will compare and contrast concrete and steel stairs in these key areas to help you make an informed decision.

Durability and Strength

Concrete stairs are incredibly durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance. They can also support a great deal of weight, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.

Steel stairs are also incredibly durable and can last for many years. However, concrete stairs are not as resistant to wear and tear. Steel stairs may also dent or bend if a large amount of weight is applied to them.

Cost

Concrete stairs are generally more expensive than steel stairs. This is because concrete is a more expensive material than steel. Concrete stairs may also require more labour to install than steel stairs.

Maintenance

Concrete stairs require less maintenance than steel stairs. Concrete is a non-porous material that does not absorb stains or dirt. Concrete stairs can also be cleaned with a power washer.

Steel stairs require more maintenance than concrete stairs. Steel stairs may rust over time and will require regular cleaning and painting to prevent this.

Aesthetics

Concrete stairs can be designed to blend in with any architecture. Concrete can be textured and tinted to match the surrounding area. Concrete can also be stamped to create a variety of patterns and textures.

Steel stairs are often used in industrial and commercial settings. Steel stairs are less versatile when it comes to design and may not match the surrounding area as well as concrete stairs.

Safety

Both concrete and steel stairs can be dangerous if not installed properly. Concrete stairs can become slippery when wet, while steel stairs can become very hot in direct sunlight. Proper installation and maintenance of both stairs is essential to their safety.

Sustainability

Concrete stairs are a more sustainable option than steel stairs. Concrete stairs can last for decades with proper maintenance, while steel stairs will eventually need to be replaced. Concrete stairs can also be recycled or reused when they are no longer needed.

What to Consider When Deciding?

There are several factors to consider when deciding between concrete and steel stairs. The most important factor is the purpose of the stairs. If the stairs are only needed for a short period, steel stairs may be the better option. If the stairs have been used for many years, concrete stairs may be the better choice.

Other factors to consider include the climate, the weight of the people using the stairs, and the budget. The climate is important because concrete stairs can become slippery in wet weather, while steel stairs can become very hot in direct sunlight. The weight of the people using the stairs is also important because concrete stairs can crack under heavy weight, while steel stairs are more likely to bend.

Conclusion

There are many factors to consider when choosing between concrete and steel stairs. Cost, durability, and aesthetics are all important considerations. Ultimately, the best choice for a given project will depend on the specific needs and circumstances.

If you are interested in steel stairs in Perth, you can get them done by us at Aussie Balustrading and Stairs. We also offer other services, such as handrails and balustrades. Get in touch with us to learn more about our products and services.