How to dismantle a staircase efficiently

Some renovation or fit-out projects require a staircase to be dismantled. To avoid accidents and possibly reuse the structure, it must be done carefully. That is why the team at ProDemolition.be has put together this guide on how to dismantle a staircase efficiently and safely.

Given the wide variety of staircases in our homes, there is no general rule for dismantling them. The method depends above all on the type of structure and how it was installed. The first thing to remember is that only kit staircases can be dismantled! It makes sense: how could you dismantle a timber or metal staircase delivered in one piece without damaging or breaking it?

For this type of staircase, the simplest approach is to follow the manufacturer’s assembly guide in reverse — which is why we always recommend keeping your installation guides and instructions!

If you moved into a house with a kit staircase already installed and do not have the instructions, the job can be harder. Here are the steps to follow:

1. To make reassembly easy later, take a pencil or black marker (depending on the material of your staircase) and carefully number every part of the staircase.
2. For clear numbering, sort the parts into categories: those of the staircase itself (treads and string) and those of the handrail and balustrade. Put a number on each part (on the back or in a corner) so it is visible. Feel free to take photos with your phone or make a quick sketch if you no longer have the instructions.
3. Once everything is ready, it is time to actually dismantle the staircase. Kit staircases are dismantled starting with the string, which lets you remove the treads and risers one by one.
4. As you go, store the fixings carefully: they are often small! Put them in a jar with a lid, a large envelope or a zip bag so you can find them easily.
5. Once the staircase is fully dismantled, group the parts together (treads with treads, etc.) so they take up as little space as possible. Tape them together and do not forget the bags of fixings… That’s it: you can now move your staircase and reassemble it wherever you like.

Dismantling a staircase: precautions

Before dismantling a staircase, take several precautions to keep the site safe. Close off access to the areas below the structure to avoid accidents from falling objects.

Note: if you need to remove a concrete staircase and cannot dismantle its fixings, the only option is to break it up with a sledgehammer. Use suitable equipment for breaking concrete: safety glasses, gloves and appropriate clothing.