Lighting stairs in a house: recommendations and requirements

What lamps can be used

Lamps most often use LED, halogen, and neon lamps, which differ in the degree of safety, power, and efficiency.

Halogen

An even, bright glow and efficiency distinguish halogen lamps from other types. They can become very hot during operation. This reduces their safety, especially when installed on wooden stairs. Halogen lamps are highly sensitive to voltage changes; burnouts occur frequently for this reason.

Neon

Lamps of this type do not irritate the eyes with their light and provide diffused, uniform illumination. Their service life is much longer than halogen ones. Halogen lamps can only be used on stairs if the steps are so strong that they do not bend under the weight of people walking. Even the slightest mechanical pressure can damage neon lamps. When installing, it is worth considering the design of the protective backlight housing.

LEDs

The undeniable advantages of LEDs include:

• a large selection of bulb shape, lamp power, light shade, base type;
• low heat during operation;
• efficiency is an order of magnitude higher than conventional lamps;
• long time of use due to the large built-in resource.

Types of staircase lighting

Stairs in two-story houses can have very different looks. This can be a single-flight staircase or a long spiral structure. Depending on the length of the staircase and the style of the interior, the types of lighting for this part of the house are selected.

Types of staircase lighting:

1. Lamps are installed on the walls near the stairs. They can have a variety of designs. Luxurious sconces are suitable for wide lifting structures, and narrow lifting structures can be equipped with spotlights located right next to the steps.
2. Long chandeliers for staircases are especially often used to decorate luxurious mansions. Such designs are suitable for stairs with more than three flights, and they will also look perfect in the center of spiral buildings. The design of long chandeliers can be classic or modern. In the first case, the lamp will be equipped with crystal pendants or round shades. Modern designs have the most unexpected appearance, for example, the base of the lamp can be made in the form of a shower, from which crystal droplets “flow” on long lines.
3. LED lamps are used to illuminate stairs. They are economical and can be used for both spot lighting and wall sconces. The intensity of the LED lamp can be adjusted, changing the muted bluish color to warm white. They consume so little electricity that they can be left on 24 hours a day.
4. LED lighting for stairs is the most functional. It has a stunning decorative effect and a lot of possibilities. This is partly due to the flexibility of the material from which it is made. Such tapes can be installed on walls and railings along the stairs, or directly on the steps. LED lighting has a lot of lighting options, from natural yellowish to blue. The LED strip can be used all day long, as it has fairly low energy consumption.

When choosing the type of lighting, first of all, you should pay attention to the cost of each of them. Also consider the ease of installation of such structures

If expensive long chandeliers can be used at home, then at the dacha such an element will be unnecessary.

Recommendations for organizing lighting

When choosing the type of backlight, several features are taken into account:

• First of all, you should pay attention to the length of the descent. The longer the flight of stairs, the more light is required.
• The devices should emit a calm light that will not dazzle a person or irritate the eyes.
• Energy consumption should be economical since the backlight requires frequent use.
• You need to take care of safety and install an autonomous type of lighting that will operate using a battery or accumulator in the event of a power outage.
• The light flux should not create shadows or distort the configuration of the steps.

Option 1 – Pass-through switches

We have already discussed with you the connection diagram for a pass-through switch. There is nothing complicated, but with the help of such devices you can control the light from 2, 3, or even 4 points. This idea is often used in private homes. If the length of the steps is small, one switch should be mounted on the first floor, the second one on the second floor. The staircase lighting diagram will look like this:

If you need to control the light bulb from three places, you can install an auxiliary switch - cross. In this case, the lighting scheme for a landing in a private house will look like this:

As you can see, wiring is not complicated. The zero is connected directly to the lamp, the phase is connected to the break.

Types of lamps for lighting stairs

In addition to incandescent lamps, which consume a lot of energy and produce a large amount of heat, the following are used for installing staircase lighting:

• Halogen. They shine brightly, but emit heat, so they are rarely installed in wooden structures. They are ineffective as additional lighting in combined systems, since bright light on stairs is usually not needed. Lack of sensitivity to voltage changes, which is why they quickly burn out.
• Neon lamps. They shine dimly and last a long time. The case is quite fragile, so protective devices against mechanical damage are needed.
• LEDs are the most popular, as they have a wide range of shapes, power, and colors. Suitable for installation near wooden structures because they do not emit heat. They last a long time.

Economical lamps can be used in large quantities, creating light panels and beams of light on various parts of the stairs.

Lighting control methods, advantages and disadvantages

Naturally, the abundance of lamps and their installation options provide various ways to manage this diversity.

Comfortable lighting “automatically”

Automatic lighting systems are equipped with sensors and controllers. Motion sensors react to a moving object and are installed at the beginning/end of the stairs. When mounting on a wall, choose devices with a viewing angle of 180°, and when mounting on the ceiling - 360°. Typically, the operating range of devices is no more than 12 meters.

Advantages: energy savings (since the lamps do not work all the time), no need to fumble around the wall in the dark looking for a switch or try to remember to turn off the lights after walking up the stairs, the system works on classic lamps or LED strips.

Disadvantages: sensitivity to voltage surges and, as a result, breakdowns or incorrect operation; the presence of animals in the house leads to unnecessary operation of the system.

The system can be configured according to the following operating modes: quick turn-on, illumination of all steps simultaneously or alternately, constant low-level lighting of steps. If you want the system to turn on automatically at night, it is connected to a light sensor. To install and configure the correct operation of the system, it is advisable to use the services of professionals.

Manual backlight control

This is the most common lighting control option, which is convenient when equipping simple (single-flight) structures. The staircase lighting scheme is quite simple: the keys are installed on the first and last steps. If the house has several floors, then switches are mounted on each floor. Similar product models will be an excellent way to illuminate a basement or attic staircase or steps to the basement or attic floors.

Advantages: low cost of components, ability to use backlighting as needed. The disadvantages include the need to pre-install the wiring, which is optimal for equipping stairs located only near the walls.

A staircase in a single stylistic solution with the room, and properly equipped with lamps, will be a reliable “helper” in the dark and an effective design element during the day.

Types of lighting devices used

For each case, the type of lighting device is selected individually, based on the parameters of the staircase. Therefore, before purchasing specific equipment, study the features of the most popular options.

LED strips and tubes

LED strips and tubes

LED strips perfectly bend around any surface and adapt to the shape and length of the stairs. But direct installation of the tape, as a rule, is not performed, since open light elements dazzle the eyes. Therefore, the tape is placed in a tube that diffuses the light flux.

Spotlights

Spotlights Spotlights
provide good lighting brightness, but each such lamp is designed for a certain power. If the design parameters are exceeded, they can overheat and quickly fail. For the most part, they provide a directional flow even with frosted glass and a diffuser, which must be taken into account when installing them.

Wall sconces

Wall sconces for lighting stairs

Decorative sconces are a wall chandelier that is placed at eye level. When choosing a specific model, it is desirable that it be consistent in style and shape with existing chandeliers on the ceiling or other lamps in the house near the stairs. There are quite a few options for how to attach the lampshade, so you can choose one located near the wall or one located near the stairs.

Staircase or ceiling chandeliers

Ceiling chandeliers for lighting stairs

Some models of stairs allow you to use a ceiling chandelier with a classic arrangement of lamps or non-standard elongated models for their lighting. For houses with a high ceiling, it is rational to use a chandelier on a bracket or mounting cord. If there is a large distance from the lighting fixture to the steps, the lampshades should redistribute the flow in the desired direction. Glossy walls and transparent or free space under the railings help ensure uniform lighting along the entire perimeter of the staircase.

Lighting methods

The staircase is a decoration of the house, so lighting should highlight it favorably. Among the light options used, the following are often used:

• flood - lamps are placed on the ceiling;
• orienting - the light is directed towards the steps;
• decorative - to create an atmosphere.

The lighting can be turned on either automatically or manually.

Automatic

This mode of lighting control on the stairs is convenient. It can be done in several ways:

• as a result of touching a certain area of ​​the structure;
• responding to movement, the sound of a voice or clapping of hands.

The light can turn on immediately at full power or smoothly, gradually increasing the intensity.

Motion Sensor

The device responds to any movement in the room. As soon as a person approaches the stairs, the light turns on. Half a minute after inactivity, the sensor turns off the lighting.

Time Timer

It is installed to automatically illuminate the stairs at the same time. The timer is programmed to go off when the family is at home - in the morning, before work or in the evening, after work.

Load or touch sensor

The device is activated after touching the handrails or steps. The light turns off when there is no load for some time.

Sound sensor

An acoustic switch is very convenient for lighting stairs. It can respond to claps, the jingling of keys, or the sound of footsteps. As soon as the sensor threshold is exceeded, it will turn on. After a short interval of time after the sounds have subsided, the lighting turns off.

Wireless

The most comfortable staircase lighting options include wireless. It assumes autonomous types as a power source - batteries, accumulators.

The advantages of such a system include:

• no costs for electricity;
• availability of lighting during a power outage;
• simple installation that does not require special knowledge or work with high voltage;
• system safety - impossibility of short circuit or fire of electrical wiring;
• soft light that is comfortable for the eyes.

Regular network

To install mains-powered lighting, you will need special knowledge of electrical engineering, caution and the ability to use tools. It is necessary to prepare lighting fixtures, wires, sensors, backlight controllers, a tube or cable cases in advance. In your work you should stick to the plan:

1. Draw up an electrical diagram.
2. Purchase the required number of lamps.
3. Lay communications.
4. Install backlight.
5. Connect to the network.

In the absence of the necessary knowledge and skills, the work of wiring and conducting communications for lighting the stairs should be entrusted to a specialist.

How to choose lighting for stairs?

Experts in the field of installation of illuminated staircases give some advice on choosing the type of lighting. When purchasing, consider the following:

• Lamps. They should not visually distort the shape of the stairs and ledges. There are shadowless light bulbs on sale for this purpose.
• The area that is planned to be illuminated. This indicator has a direct relationship with the length of the staircase itself. The longer the structure, the more light the lighting fixture should emit. Also, only diffused light is suitable for extended structures.
• Material used in manufacturing. If it is wood, then it must be treated with a special heat-resistant solution.
• Atmospheres in the house. The wooden system harmonizes with yellow light, and the metal structure emphasizes its advantages in white light. The glass product shows well with all colors.

Subtleties of manufacturing

The owner can independently install the staircase lighting. At the time of purchasing components, sellers provide instructions. But the documentation does not say anything about some of the subtleties.

What equipment to choose for staircase lighting?

You can install the lighting without a specialist by purchasing everything you need. This:

• various sensors;
• regulators (more often called controllers);
• element of automatic devices - relay;
• LED strips or other lamps;
• transformers;
• cables for connecting the system to the electrical network.

It is possible to purchase electronic boards separately. But you will need electrical installation and soldering skills.

Where to start making a staircase with lighting?

The first thing the owner of the house needs to decide on is his needs, that is, he must decide what exactly he wants. For example, to:

• the steps were illuminated at the moment of contact with the foot;
• the light was activated step by step;
• the structure was fully illuminated;
• the backlight was turned on by pressing the switch;
• the light began to function due to movement, etc.

You may be interested in: Features of refractory bricks

At the moment of such a choice, the owner should evaluate his capabilities. Perhaps the installation requires the involvement of specialists.

Once your desires have been identified, you can proceed to purchasing components and becoming familiar with the installation instructions. But it is impossible to make a purchase without:

• Scheme selection. You need to decide where the lighting will be located: on the wall;
• on the sides, above, below;
• at each stage or not;
• along the entire length of the structure or just in the middle. At this stage, you should decide how the backlight will work.

Basic rules for installing lighting on staircase steps

Installing lighting on stair steps has many features. But there are several main rules and nuances that you must remember:

• you can choose how many steps will be illuminated, but on a spiral staircase, lamps are attached to each element;
• spotlights are suitable only for small structures;
• neon lamps perform well during operation, but they are easy to break during installation;
• do not use halogen lamps, they do not illuminate the path well and often burn out;
• if you want to choose lighting that is easiest to install, then give preference to LED strip;
• if there is plastic on the stairs, mount the lamps as far as possible from it;
• think about additional autonomous power supply in case the house is without power;
• do not neglect safety rules.

Organization of safe lighting on the stairs

Before installing lamps, you should properly organize the work process in terms of safety. The precautions are:

• check whether the lamps that will be installed are in working order (you can check them at the purchase stage - in the store);
• read the installation instructions;
• completely de-energize the electrical network, i.e. turn off the main switch in the house;
• check the phase on each wire used using a special indicator screwdriver;
• make sure that there is no moisture on the stairs, otherwise a short circuit may occur;
• if you are installing a sconce or chandelier, then use a stepladder;
• make sure that there are no strangers nearby, especially children.

Kitchen

Not everyone decides to place a kitchen under the stairs. Indeed, in the process of arranging a working or dining area in such a place, you may encounter a number of problems. But it is quite possible to do this if you take into account many nuances at the stage of building a house and the general finishing of the entire room.

When arranging the space under the stairs, it is possible to place a kitchen there with almost any type of layout.

1. A one-line kitchen will fit under a flight of stairs. Of course, it will be very small, and some of the upper cabinets will have to be abandoned, but this is a very convenient and space-efficient option, quite appropriate, for example, for a country house.
2. An L-shaped kitchen is the most popular and most convenient option for arranging furniture.
3. A U-shaped arrangement of elements is possible if, in addition to the space under the flight, there is also space under the second floor platform.
4. G-shaped placement is an incredibly stylish and comfortable option with a bar counter.
5. A kitchen with an island is a placement method that is possible if there is a free area of ​​at least 20 m2. Very relevant for spacious rooms, especially if the kitchen under the stairs goes into the dining room.

Step-by-step installation instructions

Connection diagram for LED lighting for a single-flight staircase

Considering the complexity of the system that is to be mounted on the stairs, it is recommended to sketch out an approximate layout of the devices. This will help to correctly calculate the amount of consumables and intermediate devices, as well as establish the estimated amount of work.

Selecting a lighting scheme

The choice of lighting scheme depends on the design of the staircase, its location in the house, and the degree of natural light. When installing it yourself, it is recommended to use simpler methods of light control, for example, pass-through switches. More complex systems with timers and sensors require the connection of additional devices and special settings.

Material calculation

Heat-resistant LED strip, protection class IP67

The optimal amount of light on the stairs is calculated based on its length, width, and lamp power. If the goal is savings, it is necessary to choose durable low-power systems, for example, LED strips. Before purchasing materials, you need to calculate the total length to which the tape will be mounted and add a small margin. In the store, LED strips are sold by the meter or in rolls of 250 or 500 meters.

You will need to buy additional equipment to control the light - a microcontroller, an LED driver or something similar in functionality, touch sensors, phototransistors to turn on the backlight only at night. To control all devices you need a 12 volt power supply.

Installation and connection

Laying wiring for future lighting

The first step is to assemble and test the control module - this is the most difficult part of the job. If everything works, you can begin installation. The LED strip is connected to wires and glued under the steps or under the railing (wherever it is planned). Before this, the surface is degreased with acetone.

For lamps, you will have to make square holes in the wall with a hammer drill and grooves for wiring, so it is more convenient to do such work at the repair stage. After laying the wires and lamp sockets, the holes in the walls are covered with cement. Using the same scheme, sensors are installed on the upper and lower steps.

Now you need to connect the wires to the required controller connectors on the board. The last stage is connecting the power supply to the electrical network.

DIY staircase lighting (instructions)

The lighting of the stairs with LEDs looks quite original and beautiful. Lighting effects guarantee comfortable movement and transform the interior beyond recognition. The equipment is sold as a complete set, so if you have basic knowledge, you can assemble the system yourself.

Regular

For simple lighting from the network, you will need a switch. The side surfaces or overhangs of the steps are equipped with LED strip. The system is started by a button located on the wall. To work, you will need an aluminum profile, metal scissors, a ruler or tape measure, self-tapping screws, a drill and a screwdriver.

To make the appearance of the lighting more attractive and hide the LED strip, also purchase a plastic plinth to hide the electrical wiring.

The process of installing LED backlight from the mains is as follows:

1. At each step of the stairs or at the junction between the wall and the steps, you need to install an aluminum profile, which is secured with self-tapping screws.
2. The installed profile must be degreased. Alcohol, white spirit or another product is usually used for this purpose.
3. The LED strip needs to be cut into segments, the length of which corresponds to the width of the steps; you can make them 5-8 cm smaller.
4. The protective film is removed from the tape, the finished elements are glued to the pre-installed profile.
5. Next you need to output the contacts for the LEDs. This is done on both sides of the tapes, the outer contacts are connected to a common electrical cable.
6. All that remains is to connect the controller and power supply and start the system. To hide the LED strip, you can install a plastic plinth on the profile.

Related article: Advantages of transforming stairs and their varieties (popular manufacturers)

The figure below shows an approximate diagram of connecting LED lighting for a single-flight staircase.

On the video: how and to what to connect the LED strip.

Automatic

The circuit is based on the relationship between the sensor and the controller (preferably use an Arduino/arduino device). Touch sensors are installed directly opposite the lower and upper steps, and when moving, the LED controller is activated.

To assemble an automatic system, you need to purchase the following components:

• controller - the main component of the entire scheme, suitable for most stairs;
• board with circuits required to install the controller;
• LED driver - a microcircuit connected to the controller outputs;
• sensor sensors - they are the ones who will respond to movements;
• a photocell that is installed so that the light does not turn on during the day;
• You will also need wires to connect and connect all components.

Before starting installation with your own hands, you need to assemble the circuit and run it in test mode to make sure that the components are in working form. To do this you need:

1. Connect the controller to the computer and download the control code.
2. Install the controller on the board, connect it to the LED drivers and connect it to the tape outputs.
3. Make two additional pins for the sensors responsible for turning on the light.

In addition to the above components, it is also recommended to install a switch that will allow you to turn off the system or switch to permanent mode.

On video: smart staircase lighting - how it works.

After the system is assembled, installation begins. Do-it-yourself automatic LED lighting of the Arduino staircase is mounted in the following order:

1. The required number of fragments are cut from the tapes.
2. The ends of the tapes are closed with special connectors.
3. After degreasing the steps with acetone, LED strips are glued.
4. Opposite the lower and upper steps, holes are made into which socket boxes are installed and touch sensors are recessed.
5. The wires from the sensors are routed through grooves under the steps, and a cable duct is attached to the stringer.
6. The control module box is placed in an enclosed area, often under a ladder.
7. The conductors are connected, after which the cables are connected to the connectors on the board.

After a test check, if no problems or inaccuracies are identified, this system is launched into permanent operation.

On the video: the process of installing and connecting automatic staircase lighting.

Having familiarized yourself with the methods of organizing staircase lighting and understanding what types of lighting fixtures are best used in each individual case, you can safely develop your own scheme. You will also need to make a list of the necessary materials and equipment used.

Review of automatic LED lighting of steps (2 videos)

Functional and decorative lighting (58 photos)

Features of lighting of external stairs

If changes in temperature, humidity and other atmospheric influences are not particularly important for organizing the lighting of internal staircases, then external structures have their own characteristics.

• The power of outdoor light sources should be greater than that of indoor lamps.
• In the case of using general lanterns to illuminate the courtyard and stairs, their location should provide enough light for the entire system.
• Only lighting fixtures specifically designed for outdoor installation should be used. Lamps for lighting the stairs in them must be protected from atmospheric influences, that is, covered with shades.
• Electrical wiring is used with reinforced insulation that can withstand temperature changes and precipitation.

Original options

Lamps can be located:

• On the walls of the house;
• On the fence;
• Suspended from cables;
• Installed on poles.

Low columnar lighting structures are often used.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=CMlPUekL1S8

Children's room

Everyone remembers Harry's famous little room in the closet under the stairs. Modern parents, of course, will not give their children a place in the closet, but setting up a play area in the under-staircase space is a very good idea. A wide variety of options are possible - from simple ones with carpeting and children's toys placed there, to fairy-tale houses that are unique and amazing in their beauty and believability in their details. Such a magical structure will give the child a lot of ideas for games and will develop fantasy and imagination. However, do not forget that the location of the steps of the stairs next to the play space creates the need to provide for the protection of the child. Installing child safety gates is a must.

What types of staircase designs are there? (photo examples)

The design of a staircase is how the steps are attached to each other.

Kosour

A stringer is a supporting structure on top of which steps are attached. Stringers can be double-sided (that is, located along the edges of the steps) or centered (located in the center under the steps).

Bowstring

A string ladder is a type of load-bearing fastening of steps in which they are inserted with their ends into an inclined beam. Often two strings are used, but in some cases a wall may be used instead of one of the beams.

Bolza

Bolts are metal rods or brackets that hold the steps together. Stairs of this type look the least cumbersome. However, due to the popularity of this type of fastening in the recent past, these stairs are often associated with the word “European-quality renovation”.

Elements of staircase structures

Before starting a design project, you need to understand the features of each detail. A standard staircase in a cottage consists of:

• steps and supports supporting them;
• bowstrings - beams on which the end and lower parts of the steps rest;
• stringers - beams holding the steps from below;
• treads - the horizontal base of the steps;
• riser - a vertical part, which, depending on the type of product, may not exist;
• Boltsov – anchor bolts for installation in the wall and subsequent fastening of steps;
• racks are the main load-bearing element of spiral staircases;
• flight of stairs - steps and beams to overcome the level in the assembly;
• railings, handrails, rods - fencing parts;
• balusters – vertical decorative and reinforcing supports.

LED Strip Light

This lighting option is now actively used in a wide variety of interiors. It is well suited for small rooms, narrow stairs, rooms with low ceilings. An LED strip does not require as much space as a sconce, chandelier or floor lamp, but it provides no less light.

To achieve uniform illumination of the corridor, the tape can be placed in several places. It is usually glued under steps and handrails. If there is no sconce on the walls, a structure is attached to it, which is also glued. If there are niches or paintings, they can also be additionally illuminated. The tape is very flexible, so it is actively used in the design of various interiors. The drawings on the walls lined with LED tubes look unusual. Install a motion sensor, then the light will turn on automatically.

Types of lighting fixtures and their installation location

When choosing lamps for a luminous structure, it is worth considering the fact of convenience. It doesn’t matter what type of lighting fixture you give preference to – the main thing is that the lighting performs its functions. Otherwise there is a risk of injury.

LED strips or tubes

Many home owners prefer this type of lamp. This is because diodes consume little electrical energy and are easy to install.

The LED strip looks like a bendable tube with small light bulbs inside.

There is a large selection of similar products on sale. You can choose diodes of any color. Material is sold in metres. Therefore, you need to measure in advance how much tape you will need to install the backlight.

When planning the lighting of a structure, you need to take into account the fact that in addition to the tape itself, you will need to hide additional devices, such as regulators and batteries. On the front side of the stairs, the diodes are attached to adhesive tape.

LEDs are usually mounted like this:

• on the steps;
• on the wall;
• installed along the boundaries of the stairs;
• on the crossbars.

Existing paintings or niches can also be illuminated with tape. Light will add elegance to the interior.

You may be interested in: How to arrange a garage inside: examples of modern design projects

Spot lighting for stairs

This is more a type of installation than a type of lamp. It is in demand due to the fact that the price of the points is not high and they do not protrude from the structure. Lamps are installed for:

• short marches;
• lightweight structures;
• illumination of certain parts of the structure;
• illumination of dangerous areas.

In lamps that are scattered around the entire perimeter of the stairs (spots), it is not recommended to use powerful lamps and incandescent lamps. The optimal solution would be fluorescent lights or LED lamps.

Spot lighting can be installed:

• on walls at different heights;
• on balusters;
• on the platforms between marches;
• on steps or railings.

This is a narrowly focused type of lighting. It can blind. Therefore, it is recommended to use diffusers.

Wall sconces

This type is used to illuminate steps. A good solution for long stairs. This is because sconces illuminate a large area. If the staircase is small, then it is enough to fix one sconce. In cases where the structure occupies a large area, several lamps are installed at once.

When using 3-5 sconces, installation occurs at a distance of 1-1.5 meters, and the closure occurs in one circuit.

You should think about installing sconces in advance. It is better to lay the wiring at the stage of staircase installation. If the structure has already been assembled, then it is recommended to use cable channels that perform decorative functions, or buy sconces that work wirelessly.

If the stairs have turns, then it is also better to equip them with wall lamps.

Staircase lighting with chandelier

A solution for those who have high ceilings in the house (the distance from the stairs to the ceiling is more than 5 meters). When using a chandelier, the wire for connecting the lamp is hidden in the ceiling.

It is fashionable and convenient to install a cascade chandelier. The lamps are hung at different levels, but the light is even and the entire staircase is well illuminated.

If the chandelier is an independent and only lighting device, then buy one with bright lamps. Switches should be located at the beginning and end of stairs. The location of the switches is thought out at the stage of installation of the structure.

Combined lighting option

In this case, several different lamps are used at once. For example, the steps are illuminated by an LED strip, and the rest of the space is illuminated by a ceiling chandelier.

Lamps are mounted on:

• ceilings;
• walls located along the steps;
• intermediate sites;
• handrails;
• ledges

Spot lighting is rarely used in residential premises, but is more common in commercial ones. But if you still choose this type, then it is recommended to use drywall and cut the required number of holes for the lamps in it.

Stair materials

The supporting structures of stairs are made of wood, metal, glass and concrete. Ceramics, stone and mosaics are used as finishing materials. When finishing steps, take into account that they must resist abrasion. If the steps are lined with slippery material, apply rough stripes to the tread surfaces or lay carpet. The fencing and cladding of the stairs are consistent with the interior design. The most popular are wooden stairs: they are suitable for interiors of any style, while steel and glass are attributes of a modern setting.

Wooden stairs are especially in demand in private homes; they are diverse, durable, environmentally friendly and beautiful. Solid wood or laminated wood is used for construction

Wooden stairs are traditionally decorated with carved balusters and railings, as well as wooden sculptures. The design of any material is made impressive by forged railings and fences, as well as glass elements. For the design of the staircase, an entrance platform with several initial steps is important. It can be oval, with unusually designed railings.

Glass stairs are made of triplex (several layers of tempered glass); metal is used for the non-existent structure. Glass stairs can have a complex spatial configuration and are spectacular. Fences are made of triplex, steel, brass

Metal stairs are made from metal profiles, pipes, reinforcing steel and steel sheets. They allow you to give the structure any configuration.

Concrete stairs can be prefabricated or monolithic. Concrete allows you to create representative stairs of complex, plastic, curved shapes. The surface of the stairs is lined with stone, mosaic, and ceramics. Fences are made of stone, forged metal, steel, less often - of wood

Types of stairs

By design

• Marching. The most common option in private homes. Depending on the number of floors and height of the building, it may have several flights or one. According to their configuration, they are divided into staircases with a straight flight and rotary ones.
• Screw. Suitable for small spaces, the steps are located around a central power element. The advantage of this design is the simple and convenient installation of staircase lighting. This model has a steeper rise compared to other types. For safety reasons, it is necessary that each step in such a structure be illuminated.
• Spiral. Unlike a screw, there is no central power element. To install this option, you need a large room with high ceilings, since the stairs take up a lot of space. The main feature is an oval or round staircase opening.
• Goose step. Suitable for limited space, the steps have a wide angle and are designed for left or right feet.

By material

• Metal. One of the strongest and most durable materials, its characteristics and choice of lighting depend on the type of metal used. When selecting a light source, the presence or absence of risers plays an important role. Nowadays it is rare to see a completely metal staircase, since it is an expensive and complex product to make, and also has an impressive weight. Most often, a supporting structure is made from it and supplemented with other materials.
• Tree. This is an environmentally friendly and safe material, which is why it is most widespread. Such stairs are easier to manufacture compared to other types; hardwoods are most often used. Due to the fire hazard, it is not recommended to use light sources that heat up quickly and strongly.
• Glass and plastic. Individual elements are made from durable glass and plastic; such options, combined with well-chosen light, look very impressive.
• Concrete. It is distinguished by the integrity and reliability of its structure; most often, stairs of this type are installed during the construction stage.
• A natural stone. Wear-resistant and durable material. Such stairs require a large area and a strong frame. It has a great appearance and high cost. It is also possible to use artificial stone in decoration; it is much more affordable, but inferior in quality and visual component.
• Combined options. When choosing a light for viewing steps, you should take into account all the features of the materials used.

Illuminated staircase design

Lamps should fit into the overall design of the staircase and become its decoration. Their choice depends on the style of the interior. If you like classics, then wrought-iron sconces will suit you, each of which has two lampshades, plain or with a floral print. Such devices are placed between paintings in gold frames. If there is a lot of wood in the interior, look for lamps with wooden lampshades.

Square spotlights will fit into a Scandinavian interior. They can be built into steps or installed along the stairs. They are also suitable for loft and minimalism style. For the latter, select square light sources in steel frames. If several light sources are used, they should all be in the same style and complement each other.

Which lighting arrangement is best?

Examples of placement of light sources.

Staircase lighting on steps

The lighting of the steps is selected to match the style of the staircase and the interior design of the cottage. For such lighting, it is better to prefer devices that have a soft glow that will not strain the eyes and form bright shadows.

To install lighting, holes are made in the steps and wiring is routed out. Light bulbs are placed in different ways in each stage or through one.

The photo shows a flight of stairs with LED illumination of the steps.

Lighting with wall lights

It is advisable to place the sources at the level of a standard human height and not too far from each other. This way you can achieve even lighting on the stairs and avoid darkening the steps.

In color and design, lighting fixtures should be in harmony with the style of the staircase and the overall interior of the house.

The photo shows a wall with spotlights in the design of the staircase.

Ceiling lighting

Top lighting is considered if the ceiling plane is at least 3 meters high, since such an arrangement of lamps visually conceals the area.

For the ceiling, it is better to choose lamps that have several spotlights with a diffuse, versatile light flux. Devices that create reflected or downward light will fit well into the staircase space.

Decorative lighting for railings

Thanks to the illumination of the railing, it will be possible to give the fence a shine and visually make it lighter. For decoration, they prefer LED strip, which adds exquisite charm and even some mystery to the staircase.

Spiral staircase

As already mentioned, a spiral staircase in a private house takes up the least amount of space. But it has a serious drawback: it is uncomfortable to walk on, and it is almost impossible to lift anything bulky to the second floor. So they are not very popular, although they look good and fit well into any interior.

Calculation features

When designing a spiral staircase, it must be taken into account that in some positions there are other steps above your head. Therefore, it will not be possible to make small risers

The next feature is that the steps are all unequal in width - narrower on one side, wider on the other. The narrow part is attached to the central support (post), the wide part is attached to the walls or balusters. The standard for the width of the tread is measured in the middle part, and the wide part should not be more than 40 cm.

The span width is from 50 cm to 100 cm. The entire structure is doubled - a square with a side of 100 cm to 200 cm is required.

Prefabricated column design

This type of spiral staircase is the easiest to make: a pipe is placed on which wooden elements are placed - steps, intermediate cylinders, etc.

The device of a spiral staircase on the central pillar

If you look in more detail, in addition to a metal pipe (in this case with a diameter of 40 mm), steps and balusters (available in any design), there are turned wooden cylinders (segments) that set the distance from one step to another.

Elements of a spiral wooden staircase

On the other hand, the distance between the steps is maintained using cuts on the balusters. The steps are attached to these grooves (with glue + fasteners).

The same device, but in metal

Do-it-yourself installation of a staircase to the second floor begins with the installation of a pillar. A hole equal to the diameter of the pillar is made in the floor of the first floor and the ceiling of the second. We insert the pipe into the hole, put on the enlarged washer, and tighten the nut. Further assembly is simple: the corresponding elements are mounted on the rod, and in parallel with the installation of the step, a baluster is placed and secured. The dimensions of the steps for this spiral staircase with the given parameters are in the drawing.

Drawing of elements of a spiral staircase with dimensions

The steps are cut from laminated boards or furniture boards. You can use solid wood, but of furniture quality, that is, without any defects and dried, with a humidity of no more than 8-12%. Although laminated wood is considered more reliable: it will definitely not be damaged and will not crack when dried.

For an example of assembling such a design, see the video. It has a prefabricated pole, but you can also use a solid one, although assembling the steps will be inconvenient - you will have to climb the stairs every time.

The design of a metal spiral staircase is presented in the following video fragment. For those who are familiar with welding, this option will be easier.

Spiral staircase to the second floor: photos of interesting options

Spiral staircases can have a futuristic look. Such models fit well into the styles of minimalism, hi-tech and other modern trends in interior design. With or without railings - the choice is yours

In the photo on the right, a wooden spiral staircase on a curved stringer is a difficult element to execute. The original shape of the steps in the form of a semicircle is very comfortable when walking. Forged twisted staircases are a classic of the genre. With the same design, the impression may be different. Color design is also important.

Staircase lighting

Currently, there are a large number of different options for staircase lighting. The simplest and most common option may be a regular LED strip, which runs along the steps (or under them, along their edge, etc.), illuminating the stairs in the dark and preventing the person going down or going up from stumbling. At the same time, even in the case of such a simple lighting option, a number of additions can be made. which make lighting more convenient. For example, you can program and configure the switching on of staircase lighting according to a schedule (turning on during the hours of darkness, automatically turning off during the day and at night when everyone is sleeping, turning on in the early morning hours, etc.). You can configure the inclusion of a certain color of diodes or their alternation.

Another option, more convenient than LED strip and qualitatively different, is the use of separate LED lamps. You can also use the settings we talked about above with them. In addition, the lighting can be equipped with convenient sensors that greatly simplify turning the backlight on and off. For example, a proximity sensor may be installed. You get up at night, want to go down to the first floor, you approach the stairs - the backlight turns on. The presence sensor turns on when you are on the stairs. Usually they are installed at the end and at the beginning of a flight of stairs - this way it is convenient and light both to go up and down the stairs. You approached the stairs and took a step to the beginning of the flight of stairs - the lighting turned on and you went on about your business. To prevent the lights from turning on every time a pet walks up the stairs (believe me, pets love stairs), just install the sensor at a certain height, for example, at the height of a child. The light sensor can automatically trigger when the light level in the house changes. During the day it is light - you can see everything perfectly - the backlight does not work. Darkness comes, evening, night - the lights come on. You turned off the lights at night - the house became dark, and you need to go upstairs. But even here the backlight comes on. Let’s add that in this case you can adjust the settings and controls completely to suit yourself and your comfort. It turns out that lighting for the steps of the stairs is simply necessary for your own home, which has more than one floor or two-level apartments. This is a modern and convenient solution. Anyone who decides to illuminate the stairs and cares about their comfort can independently adjust the sensor settings. Creating maximum comfort with your own hands and avoiding injuries on the stairs is very simple in practice. Almost all over the world, in modern houses with stairs, lighting is automatic and fully adapted to the owners of the house, their habits and lifestyle features.

How to attach lighting to the stairs?

Lamps for staircase lighting can have different types of attachments to the steps. The simplest option - LED strip - is attached very easily. Often it is simply glued to the surface and positioned according to your wishes. If the lighting of your staircase is done using separate lamps, then they can have fasteners, be screwed, built-in or overhead. They can be built into both walls and stairs. We always have a huge number of models to choose from that are suitable for stairs of any type, including glass, wood, stone, and metal stairs. The choice of lamps in this case depends on your personal preferences and the design features of the staircase.

How safe is LED stair lighting?

Modern LED lamps for stairs are equipped with dust and moisture protection. They can be used, including on the street, without fear. There is simply no risk or probability of a short circuit in this case. Modern staircase lighting options are perfect devices that, in addition to the lamps themselves, fittings, sensors and power supplies, are also equipped with controllers responsible for safety.

How economical?

LED lighting consumes minimal electricity. This is the most energy-saving type of lighting. Even if your staircase lights are constantly on every night, the electricity bill you receive will not surprise you or bring unpleasant surprises.

Staircase lighting can be powered either from an alternating current network or run autonomously from a battery. In the latter case, financial losses are further minimized. A good powerful battery complete with backlight will allow it to function for a long time with rare recharges.

Can it be used outdoors?

Yes, definitely! Our online store offers the largest selection of staircase lamps. Including, we have in stock lamps for street stairs. They are dust- and moisture-proof and completely safe. In addition to the safety of the stairs to the second floor in the house, you can at the same time take care of the appearance of your home from the outside by decorating the porch with beautiful lamps. You will see the road to your house from afar in the dark; a beautifully illuminated street staircase will make your house stand out from the rest of the street, delighting you and your loved ones with its unusual and beautiful view.

Types of natural lighting of stairs in cottages

There are several different types of natural lighting for stairs.

In addition to lamps, glass partitions and doors can be used to illuminate the staircase space. In addition, the level of illumination of the staircase is determined by the color and tone of its decoration.

So, for example, if the walls of a flight of stairs are painted white, then in this way you can optically expand the space, make it lighter and create the illusion of natural daylight

Warm colors will enhance the feeling of comfort and coziness, which is especially important if there are no windows next to the staircase structure. Dark and cool colors can be used to decorate the staircase area only if artificial lighting is intense at any time, regardless of the time of day.

Also, during the daytime, the staircase can be illuminated by light falling from a nearby window.

Thus, the lighting of internal stairs depends on the location of the structure itself in the house, on the design and functional tasks. Each specific case may have its own individual approach. The main thing is to stay safe and not leave the staircase unlit.

Types of stairs and suitable lighting for them

There are several types of stairs and each one is suitable for a certain type of lamp. Based on the features of the design itself, it is worth considering many factors that can affect the operation of the lamps.

Screw

In this case, round steps are used. Screw structures have small dimensions. This becomes the reason why the light is installed in the form of a fence. You can use the side wall as a place to mount lamps.

But at the same time, each step of the element must be illuminated. Spiral staircases are considered the most unsafe.

This staircase configuration goes well with LED lamps.

Wooden and metal

Wood has high flammability, so before installing such a staircase at home, it is treated with a specialized agent - a fire retardant. It is also important that the wires have good insulation.

Systems with low current are selected for lighting. Lamps are installed with a minimum amount of heat generated.

Metal is rarely used in the manufacture of stairs. The design is slippery. This causes the installation of additional overlays. Metal is the main conductor of electric current. Therefore, the cable must be insulated by any available method.

For forged structures, lighting is optimal with lamps that are attached to the wall or ceiling.

It is possible to use diodes, but provided that the steps do not have additional ledges. If available, it is best to use spot lighting.

Stairs with transparent steps

The design helps create a feeling of lightness. The main material in the manufacturing process is glass with an increased level of strength.

The design allows us to limit ourselves to spotlights. They are installed at the level of the steps. To achieve additional glow, you can direct the light onto the narrow side of the crossbars.

Concrete stairs

Concrete is used only when you want to get a high-strength structure. After complete hardening, the ladder cannot be disassembled.

You need to think about lighting in advance, since the cables are mounted in a concrete structure.

There is no need to use cheap materials. Otherwise, the entire staircase structure will have to be dismantled in the near future.

It is better to highlight concrete stairs with sconces, and fasten them at a level of half a meter from the steps themselves. It is permissible to use a ceiling lamp if the span height allows this.

You may be interested in: What types of heating radiators are there?

Marching

Classic staircase. Movement along it resembles a march. If the house has just such a design, then any type of lighting can be used. Lamps are installed in various places - it’s up to the imagination of the home owner. The LED lighting under each step looks good.

Pantry

The space under the stairs can be successfully used to create a storage room. Various household items, household items, and canned foods will be conveniently located here. On special fasteners you can place a vacuum cleaner, ironing board, mop, children's ice sled and even a small bicycle or scooter. The pantry can be open or closed with a door.

Open structures are appropriate if they do not spoil the appearance of the room into which the stairs descend; these could be utility rooms or a non-front part of a corridor or hallway.

Closed storage rooms under the stairs can be located in the living room or hallway. Sometimes, as part of the overall interior design, doors are decorated.

Beautiful design ideas

The multi-colored LED lighting of the staircase will give a new look to the surrounding space. This design technique will create a unique and inimitable atmosphere in the interior of the house.

The photo shows the design of a staircase with multi-colored lighting in the interior of the house.

An unusual solution is to decorate the steps of the stairs with garland, lanterns or candles, which can be lit only when necessary.