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Expect to pay anywhere from $8,000 to $100,000 for a curved staircase, also called helical staircases. The extra cost represents the customization that most curved staircases require. They also don’t make a full 360-degree circle, instead, they are usually designed with an oval or C-shape shape that typically needs much more room and support materials than spiral staircases. Curved staircases are often meant as statements in large rooms and grand entries, while spiral stairs are a visually appealing way to add a low-footprint staircase to a space.

Spiral stairways need a certain amount of walking room to function correctly. The required walking path size varies with the width of the stairs. Starting at 3.5 feet wide, spiral staircases require about a 17-inch path size. For every additional foot of width, they need an extra six inches for the path

The well opening at the top of a spiral stairway needs to be at least greater than the diameter of the staircase. For example, a staircase with a 3.5-foot or 42-inch diameter needs to be about 44 inches by 44 inches.

Spiral stairs often save space since they only need a small footprint for their installation. Unlike traditional models, these stairs only take up floor space equal to its overall width. However, because spiral stairs take up less square footage, they’re often steeper than traditional stairs and may present challenges for homes with small children, pets, and people with mobility issues.

A spiral staircase design doesn’t present additional hazards over other types of staircases, especially when installed by an expert staircase and railing contractor near you who knows how to build it correctly. However, keep in mind that spiral staircases can be difficult for those with mobility issues due to their steep incline and often narrow width.

Both wood and metal are popular materials for spiral stairways, but wood often appeals to those who prefer a timeless and natural look. Metal is generally less expensive since it’s easier to form and comes in a variety of prefab kits, and it may offer better durability and fewer costs over its lifetime. Unless made from aluminum or wrought iron, metal staircases are usually reserved for indoor installations.