How to Measure for a Custom Steel Staircase Correctly

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To measure for a steel staircase, record the total floor-to-floor height, the horizontal length the stairs will occupy, and the usable width at every point along the route. Note any landings, openings, walls and obstacles, then send these dimensions with photos to the factory so a drawing can be prepared before production.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

A custom steel staircase is made to your exact space, so the measurements you provide become the basis for every cut and weld. Small errors can cause a step that is too high, a landing that does not align, or a staircase that cannot be installed through the opening. Taking time to measure carefully at the start saves rework and keeps the project on schedule.

Measure the space as it is today, including any finishes that will be added later, such as tiles or flooring, because these change the final height.

Measure the Total Rise

The rise is the vertical distance from the finished floor on the lower level to the finished floor on the upper level. Use a long tape or laser measure and take the reading at several points, since floors are rarely perfectly level.

Measure from the lower finished floor to the upper finished floor.
Repeat the measurement in at least three places and note the smallest and largest value.
Confirm whether the lower floor will receive tiles or screed that will raise its level.

Measure the Run and the Available Length

The run is the horizontal distance the staircase will cover from the first step to the last. Measure from the front face of the lower floor edge to the wall or edge where the top of the stairs will meet the upper floor, and mark any obstacles such as doors or columns that the run must avoid.

Keep in mind that the number of steps depends on the rise, so the run length and the rise together determine how the staircase will look and feel once built.

Width, Landings and Openings

Measure the clear width between the walls or the planned stringer positions at the bottom, middle and top of the stairs, because walls are not always parallel. If the staircase turns, measure the landing as well, noting its length and width.

Measure the opening in the upper floor where the stairs will pass through, including its height, width and the position of any beams or ceiling elements that could interfere with headroom.

Check Obstacles, Access and Finishes

Before finalizing, walk the route and list anything that could affect installation: narrow doorways, elevator shafts, window positions, electrical boxes or pipes. Consider how the steel pieces will be carried into the building, because long sections may need to be delivered in parts and assembled on site.

Note the planned finishes, such as wood treads, tiles or a particular railing style, so the structure can be designed to suit them.

Send Your Measurements and Photos

Once you have your numbers, write them clearly on a sketch with the dimensions labeled, and take photos of the space from several angles. Send both to the factory together with a short description of the staircase style you have in mind.

The team reviews the information and, where needed, arranges an on-site measurement before preparing a drawing and written specification for your approval. Only after you approve the drawing does production begin.

Frequently asked questions

Should I measure the rise before or after the floor is finished?

Measure after the finished floor is in place if possible, or include the planned thickness of tiles or screed in your figures. Floor finishes change the actual height the stairs must cover.

Do I need to measure in several places?

Yes, walls and floors are often not perfectly straight or level. Taking readings at several points helps reveal differences that could affect the staircase fit.

Can I order a staircase with only rough measurements?

Rough numbers are useful for an initial inquiry, but an on-site measurement is typically needed before the final drawing and production so the staircase matches the actual space.

What if my staircase has a landing or turns?

Measure the landing length and width and note the direction of the turn. Mark the position of the landing relative to the rise so the layout can be planned accurately.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common mistake is measuring once and relying on a single number, or forgetting to include the thickness of future floor finishes. Both can lead to steps that do not match the final layout.

Our recommendation

Take each measurement at least three times, write down the smallest value for openings and headroom, and send photos with your sketch so the factory can spot potential conflicts before production begins.

Summary

Measure the total rise, the run, the width and landings, and every obstacle along the route, then send accurate figures with photos to start your custom steel staircase project.

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