KwaZulu-Natal · FPS Woodworks
Timber Staircases KZN
Outdoor & indoor timber stairs built to last
A timber staircase is both a functional necessity and a design feature. Whether it's a simple deck access stair, a multi-flight garden staircase down a hillside, or a feature staircase linking two levels of a home, FPS Woodworks builds stairs that are safe, structurally sound and beautifully crafted.
SANS 10400 Compliant
Correct rise, tread and handrail height for all staircases — we build to South African building code.
Garden & Hillside Stairs
Multi-flight outdoor staircases for hillside properties in Hillcrest, Kloof and the Upper Highway.
Deck Access Stairs
Compact, well-proportioned stairs connecting decks, patios and pool surrounds to the garden.
Indoor Timber Treads
Replacement or feature timber treads for interior staircases — Balau, Garapa or Ash.
Staircase construction requires precise calculation — correct riser height, consistent tread depth and handrails at the right height are all mandated by SANS 10400 for buildings. FPS Woodworks builds to code, and every staircase includes the correct number of risers, appropriate handrails and structural stringers that can safely carry the expected load.
For outdoor staircases in KZN — common on hillside properties in Hillcrest, Kloof and Pietermaritzburg, and on elevated decks across the coast — we specify timber and hardware that handles KZN's humidity, rain and UV exposure. For coastal properties in Umhlanga, Ballito and Salt Rock, we use corrosion-resistant fixings as standard.
We also construct feature staircases for entertainment decks and multi-level outdoor spaces — open-riser designs that feel light and contemporary, or fully enclosed staircases for a more traditional look.
Materials
Timber & Material Options
Balau
Dense, slip-resistant tread — the premium choice for outdoor stairs in KZN.
Garapa
Hard and dimensionally stable — holds its shape beautifully in outdoor conditions.
Treated Pine
Cost-effective staircase construction — H4-treated for ground contact, excellent structural performance.
Composite Treads
Low-maintenance, slip-resistant composite treads — ideal for pool and coastal access stairs.
FAQs
Common Questions
What is the correct rise and tread for outdoor stairs in South Africa?
SANS 10400 specifies a maximum riser height of 200 mm and minimum tread depth of 250 mm for external staircases. FPS Woodworks calculates every staircase to be within code and comfortable to use.
Do outdoor timber stairs need handrails?
Yes — SANS 10400 requires handrails on stairs with four or more risers and on any stair adjacent to a drop of more than 1 000 mm. We include handrails on all staircases where required by code.
How long do outdoor timber stairs last in KZN?
Correctly built Balau or Garapa stairs, sealed and maintained regularly, will last 20+ years in KZN. Pine stairs last 15–20 years with maintenance. The key is using the correct timber grade and fixings for the exposure level.
Can you repair an existing staircase rather than replace it?
Often yes. We assess the existing stringers and bearers — if the structure is sound, we can replace worn treads and risers and add new handrails, which is significantly cheaper than a full rebuild.
Free Quote · KZN
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We cover all of KwaZulu-Natal. Free on-site measurement and no-obligation quote.