Replacing Your Metal Staircase with Wood: A Step-by-Step Guide

A cold, noisy metal staircase can make an otherwise warm home feel unfinished. Replacing your metal staircase with wood is a practical way to create a more natural look, improve the feel of the space, and choose a staircase that better suits your interior. If you are considering this upgrade, the process becomes much easier when you understand the steps in advance.

In this guide, you will learn how replacing your metal staircase with wood typically works, what to prepare before you order, what to expect during delivery, and how to make the project run smoothly from measurement to installation.

Why replace a metal staircase with wood?

For many homeowners, the biggest reason is simple: wood brings warmth and character. Where steel often looks sleek or industrial, wood can create a softer and more traditional appearance.

A wooden staircase can also be a practical choice when you want the staircase to feel more integrated with the rest of the home. Because a staircase is both a structural element and a visual focal point, changing the material can dramatically affect the atmosphere of the room.

Common reasons homeowners make the switch

• A warmer look and feel in the interior
• A better match with existing wooden floors, doors, or furniture
• A desire to replace a staircase that feels too industrial
• The opportunity to choose a staircase that fits the available dimensions and design preferences more closely

If you are comparing options, it can also be helpful to explore related topics such as stair types, wood species, made-to-measure staircases, and stair accessories.

What to know before replacing your metal staircase with wood

Before you begin replacing your metal staircase with wood, it is important to understand that staircases are not one-size-fits-all products. You will need to gather the right details for the new staircase order.

When ordering a staircase, the process requires information such as:

• The staircase height
• The staircase type
• The wood you want

These details are essential because each staircase is made to order.

Build-kit staircases and made-to-measure staircases

There is an important distinction between build-kit staircases and made-to-measure staircases.

Build-kit staircases are intended for existing homes. They are not designed to meet the new building regulations for newly built homes because of the dimensions of the rise and tread.

If you need a staircase that complies with the newer rules for new-build homes, that is possible through a custom solution.

Returns are limited

Because staircases are made to order and dimensions vary widely, incorrectly ordered staircases cannot be returned. That makes preparation especially important.

If you are unsure about dimensions, professional measuring support can help reduce the risk of mistakes.

Step 1: Assess the current staircase and your goals

The first step in replacing your metal staircase with wood is deciding exactly what you want the new staircase to achieve.

Ask yourself:

1. Do you want a staircase that changes the style of the room?
2. Are you replacing the staircase mainly for appearance, function, or both?
3. Do you already know which staircase type fits the space?
4. Do you want to install the staircase yourself or have it placed for you?

At this stage, it also helps to think ahead about related elements such as:

• Stair rails or balustrades
• Handrail brackets
• Anti-slip products
• Paint or finishing products

These related items can be part of the wider staircase upgrade and are worth reviewing early in the process.

Step 2: Measure carefully or use the measuring service

Accurate dimensions are the foundation of a successful staircase replacement. Since staircases are made to order, careful measuring is one of the most important parts of the project.

Measuring service

A measuring service is available for € 165. This service is offered within a radius of max 100 km from Utrecht.

This can be especially useful if:

• The existing staircase opening is unusual
• You want extra certainty before ordering
• You prefer expert support with dimensions

For customers in Belgium, measuring on site is not available, because the measuring service only applies within that radius from Utrecht.

Step 3: Choose the right wooden staircase

Once the dimensions are clear, the next step in replacing your metal staircase with wood is selecting the staircase itself.

During the ordering process, you provide details including:

• Height
• Staircase type
• Preferred wood

If your dimensions differ from standard build-kit staircases, the staircase falls under made-to-measure. These custom orders are handled separately and are priced differently because machine settings must be adjusted for the specific job.

For indoor or outdoor use

If your staircase is intended for outdoor use, there is a separate consideration. Outdoor staircases are made from iroko, a wood species suitable for weather exposure. Spruce staircases are not suitable for outdoor use.

Step 4: Decide on installation: DIY or placement service

A major practical question when replacing your metal staircase with wood is whether you want to install the staircase yourself.

DIY installation

All staircases are delivered in loose parts. The holes are pre-drilled, and the screws are included. For a capable DIYer, installation is considered manageable.

This approach can appeal if you:

• Have practical building experience
• Want more control over the project timeline
• Prefer to handle the work yourself

Placement service

A placement service is also available if you live within a radius of max 100 km from Utrecht.

For homeowners who want additional support, this can simplify the replacement process and provide extra confidence during installation.

Step 5: Understand delivery options and shipping costs

Delivery is a key part of replacing your metal staircase with wood, especially because staircases are large and heavy products.

How staircase delivery works

Staircases are delivered using the company’s own transport and driver. About one week before delivery, you receive the delivery day. The day before delivery, you receive an email with a track-and-trace link so you can follow the driver live on the day of delivery.

Delivery area

Staircase delivery is available throughout:

• The Netherlands
• Belgium

The delivery area excludes the Wadden Islands.

Shipping costs for staircases

Collection option

If you prefer, you can also collect your order by appointment.

Collection address:
Houtentrappenwinkel.nl
Kuipersweg 29
3449 JA WOERDEN

If you collect a staircase package, it is best to bring:

• Blankets
• Cardboard
• Tie-down straps

This helps prevent damage during transport.

Step 6: Plan timing and lead time

When replacing your metal staircase with wood, timing matters. Staircases are not kept in stock, and each staircase is made to order.

The usual lead time is approximately 3 working weeks.

If your project is urgent, it is possible to get in touch to discuss what may be feasible at that moment.

Step 7: Consider accessories and finishing details

A staircase replacement often involves more than the staircase alone. Finishing products and small components can make the final result safer, cleaner, and more complete.

Accessories include items such as:

• Paint
• Anti-slip products
• Handrail brackets

Shipping for accessories

Accessory orders are shipped separately.

• € 7.35 for accessories
• Orders placed on working days before 12:00 are shipped the same day when possible
• Delivery takes place through PostNL

Because staircases and accessories follow different delivery methods, it is smart to plan both together so your installation schedule stays organized.

Replacing your metal staircase with wood in Belgium

If you live in Belgium, replacing your metal staircase with wood is fully possible because delivery is available there as well.

Key points for Belgian customers:

• Staircases are delivered in Belgium
• Staircase shipping cost is € 96.00
• On-site measuring is not available in Belgium

If you order as a Belgian business, this is treated as an intra-Community supply. You are asked to provide your VAT number with the order. After the VAT number is checked, you receive a new invoice without VAT. Any VAT paid in advance is refunded.

Frequently asked questions

Is replacing a metal staircase with wood possible in an existing home?

Yes. Build-kit staircases are suitable for existing homes.

Do wooden build-kit staircases comply with the new building rules for new-build homes?

No. Build-kit staircases are intended for existing homes because of the dimensions of the rise and tread. A custom staircase is possible if you need a staircase for a new-build situation.

Can an incorrectly ordered staircase be returned?

No. Incorrectly ordered staircases cannot be returned.

Can I install the staircase myself?

Yes. Staircases are supplied in loose parts, with pre-drilled holes and included screws.

How long does delivery take?

The usual lead time is approximately 3 working weeks.

Practical tips for a smoother staircase replacement

If you want replacing your metal staircase with wood to go as smoothly as possible, these tips can help:

1. Confirm your measurements carefully before ordering.
2. Decide early whether you want a build-kit staircase or a custom solution.
3. Think beyond the staircase itself and include rails, anti-slip products, and finishing items in your plan.
4. Choose delivery or collection based on what is most practical for your location.
5. Prepare for installation day by clearing the space and arranging tools or support in advance.
6. Use the measuring service if you are within 100 km of Utrecht and want extra certainty.

Conclusion

Replacing your metal staircase with wood is one of the clearest ways to change the feel of your home. With the right measurements, the right staircase type, and a clear plan for delivery and installation, the process becomes much more manageable.

Whether you are looking for a build-kit staircase for an existing home, a custom solution for different dimensions, or practical extras such as anti-slip products and handrail brackets, careful preparation makes all the difference.

If you are ready to take the next step, explore the available staircase options, review the related accessories, or arrange your order and delivery plan so your staircase replacement can move forward with confidence.