Ordering Rare Wood Species for Your Staircase: A Step‑By‑Step Guide to Custom Requests
If you're considering ordering rare wood species for a staircase, you likely want a one‑of‑a‑kind look without compromising strength, safety, or budget. The good news: beyond oak, beech, rubberwood, mahogany, and pine (spruce), virtually any other wood can be supplied on request. This guide explains exactly how to specify a less‑common species, what to expect from consultation through delivery, and how to make confident, cost‑smart choices.
What counts as a “rare” wood species for your staircase?
In practice, "rare" simply means any species outside the most ordered options—oak, beech, rubberwood, mahogany, and pine (spruce). Whether you want a distinct grain pattern, a specific tone, or a particular tactile feel underfoot, you can request alternatives—"virtually any other wood can be supplied on request." The team can also advise on combining materials (for example, hardwood treads with pine stringers) to balance aesthetics, durability, and cost.
Tip: Use the "Houtsoorten" choice in the configurator for common selections, and reach out when you need a less‑common species or a mixed‑wood build.
How to order rare wood species: the step‑by‑step process
Below is a concise overview for quick reference, followed by detail on each step:
- Measure and define your space.
- Share your preferred species and design.
- Receive feasibility and compliance feedback.
- Get a detailed quotation.
- Approve and arrange staged payment.
- Production: typically 4–8 weeks.
- Choose factory finishing.
- Plan delivery and on‑site handling.
- Install DIY or book professional fitting.
- Enjoy long‑term support with a 6‑year warranty.
1) Measure and define your space
Accurate measurements are the foundation of a smooth custom order. Use the "Uitleg hoe een trap inmeten" guide to capture opening size, floor‑to‑floor height, and any constraints like headroom or width. If you’d like help, the "Advies" service can guide you through measuring and selecting the right staircase type.
2) Share your preferred species and design
Start in the online "Trapconfigurator" to enter dimensions, staircase style (straight, quarter‑turn, half‑turn, winder, or space‑saving), and wood preferences. For rare species or hybrid builds (e.g., hardwood treads with pine stringers), include a custom request note or contact the team directly by phone or email. You can also discuss matching components such as balustrades and guard rails.
3) Feasibility and compliance check
Each staircase is engineered to meet Dutch and Belgian building regulations for dimensions, safety, and usability. The team reviews rise/run, width, headroom, and structural integrity and can adapt the design to fit your space while staying within applicable standards.
4) Receive a detailed quotation
You’ll receive a tailored quotation covering the specified wood, staircase design, and any accessories (e.g., anti‑slip strips, LED lighting, built‑in stair drawers, handrail brackets). All prices are inclusive of VAT. For higher‑value or custom projects, staged payment is typical via invoice to keep the process clear and flexible.
- Accepted payments include bank transfer, iDEAL (including Wero), and Bancontact. Credit card and PayPal are not supported.
- If you prefer fully installed service, you can request on‑site installation in the Netherlands or Belgium.
5) Approve and arrange payment in stages
A deposit secures your order, a second installment is due before production, and the final balance is payable on completion or prior to delivery. Tailored arrangements can be discussed for complex or high‑budget projects.
6) Production and lead time
Custom manufacturing typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on design complexity, specifications, and current workload. Special materials can add time. You’ll receive a clear timeline upfront so you can plan with confidence.
7) Choose factory finishing
You can order your staircase with a factory‑applied finish:
- White or grey primer for on‑site topcoating later.
- Clear lacquer to protect the wood and preserve its natural look.
These finishes protect the staircase during transport and installation and reduce post‑installation work.
8) Plan delivery and on‑site handling
Nationwide delivery is available in the Netherlands and Belgium. After your order is scheduled:
- You’ll receive a delivery date about a week in advance.
- A reminder arrives the day before.
- A final notice is sent when the shipment departs on delivery day.
Standard delivery is to ground level only; no lift‑gate or unloading assistance is included, so arrange suitable help or equipment. Staircase kits arrive as multiple protected components—stringers in longer sections; treads, risers, and smaller parts bundled separately. If you need international delivery beyond the Netherlands and Belgium, an external transport or export partner can collect from the Woerden location and handle overseas shipment.
9) Install DIY or book professional fitting
Every staircase kit includes pre‑cut stringers, treads, risers, all necessary fixings, and a step‑by‑step written manual. Pine (spruce) models are pre‑drilled for faster assembly and precise alignment. Installation videos are not currently provided, but extra guidance is available on request.
Prefer a turnkey approach? On‑site installation is available in the Netherlands via the company’s own team and in Belgium via selected local partners (shared only with your consent). If you’re replacing an existing staircase, you can also arrange dismantling and removal as part of a full replacement service.
10) Long‑term support and warranty
Each staircase and its components are covered by a 6‑year warranty from the installation date. The warranty covers structural integrity and proper functioning under normal use and maintenance. Confirmed defects are repaired or replaced up to the original component’s invoice value. Exclusions include normal wear, natural wood variations or movement, minor cosmetic imperfections, and issues arising from improper installation, structural changes, moisture imbalance, or third‑party modifications. See the "Garantie & klachten" page for full terms.
Choosing the right rare species: key considerations
When selecting a less‑common wood, consider the following widely accepted factors to ensure a durable, comfortable, and beautiful result:
- Stability and movement: Denser woods can move more with humidity changes. Proper design and finishing help manage seasonal movement.
- Hardness and wear: Harder woods resist dents and heavy foot traffic; for cost control, consider hardwood treads with pine stringers.
- Grain and color: Grain direction and pore structure influence slip resistance, finishing appearance, and how stains or lacquers take.
- Finish compatibility: Decide early whether you want a clear lacquer to showcase natural tone or a primer for a painted look.
- Budget and availability: Some species carry longer procurement times or higher material costs. Hybrid construction can preserve visual impact while managing spend.
Hybrid construction: performance and value
A popular, cost‑efficient approach is to combine hardwood treads (typically oak or beech) with pine (spruce) stringers. This delivers hardwood strength and appearance where it matters most—underfoot—while controlling overall expense.
| Build choice | What you get | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Full hardwood (rare species) | Consistent tone and grain across treads and stringers; premium look | When a seamless visual match and single‑species design are priorities |
| Hybrid: hardwood treads + pine stringers | Hardwood durability and aesthetics on the steps; optimized cost | When you want premium treads with a smart budget and fast lead times |
Note: The team can advise on the most suitable combination for your project and budget.
Finishing options for rare species
Factory finishing protects your staircase in transit and speeds up onsite work:
- White or grey primer: Arrives ready for the final color of your choice.
- Clear lacquer: Seals and showcases the wood’s natural character.
If you prefer to finish on site, you can also order specialized stair paint from the accessories range.
Frequently asked questions about ordering rare wood species
Can you really supply any species I request?
Available species include oak, beech, rubberwood, mahogany, and pine (spruce), and virtually any other wood can be supplied on request. Share your preferred species during consultation for confirmation and a tailored quote.
How long will a custom staircase take?
Custom production typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on design and workload. Complex designs or special materials may add time. You’ll receive a clear timeline upfront and email notifications as delivery approaches.
Will my staircase comply with Dutch or Belgian regulations?
Yes. Staircases are designed and manufactured to meet applicable Dutch and Belgian building regulations. Each project is individually reviewed to ensure compliance when installed correctly.
What payment methods are available?
In addition to bank transfer, payments via iDEAL (including Wero) and Bancontact are supported. Credit card and PayPal are not available. For larger or custom projects, staged payments via invoice are typical.
Do you ship to Belgium—or internationally?
Yes, there is nationwide delivery in both the Netherlands and Belgium. For destinations outside those countries, an external transport or export partner can collect your staircase and deliver overseas.
What exactly arrives in the kit?
Pre‑cut stringers, treads, risers, all necessary fixings, and a step‑by‑step written manual. Pine (spruce) kits are pre‑drilled to speed up assembly.
Is there live shipment tracking?
No. You’ll receive the planned delivery date about a week in advance, a reminder the day before, and a final notice when the shipment departs on delivery day.
Do you offer installation?
Yes. Installation is available in the Netherlands by the in‑house team and in Belgium by selected partners. If preferred, you can install yourself or use your own contractor.
What about returns and warranty?
A dedicated "Retourneren" page explains return procedures. Each staircase is covered by a 6‑year warranty from installation; see "Garantie & klachten" for full terms and exclusions.
Practical takeaways before you request a rare species
- Define your staircase type and measurements using the self‑measurement guide.
- Decide whether you want a full single‑species build or a hybrid (hardwood treads + pine stringers).
- Choose a finishing route early: factory primer, clear lacquer, or on‑site finishing with stair paint.
- Plan timeline expectations in the 4–8 week production window; special species may extend lead time.
- Confirm delivery access and arrange help for ground‑level unloading.
- Consider add‑ons for safety and style: anti‑slip strips, LED lighting, balustrades, or built‑in stair drawers.
- Use the "Trapconfigurator" or request a quote directly; the "Werkwijze" and "Levertijd & verzendkosten" pages outline the process and timing.
Conclusion: Your custom staircase, your wood, your way
Ordering rare wood species doesn’t have to be complicated. With tailored advice, engineered compliance, clear timelines, and a 6‑year warranty, you can achieve a distinctive staircase that fits your space and budget. Ready to begin?
- Start in the online Trapconfigurator to request your custom quotation.
- Prefer personal advice first? Call +31 348 43 41 89 or email info@houtentrappenwinkel.nl.
- Visiting the shop is by appointment; phone and visit hours are Monday–Friday, 08:30–16:00.
Bring your vision—we’ll help you specify the right species, finish, and build so your staircase looks exceptional and performs for years.