Can Basement Stairs be Moved? What to Consider When Moving Your Stairs

Basement stairs are often an afterthought when it comes to home renovations. People often assume that they cannot be moved and must simply be replaced when the time comes. However, this is not always the case.

In some cases, basement stairs can be relocated if you know what to consider beforehand. In this guide, we will discuss the factors you need to consider before deciding whether to move your basement stairs.

Is it Possible to Move a Basement Staircase?

Some people may want to move their basement staircase for various reasons. Maybe the current location is inconvenient, or you’re simply not a fan of how it looks. Whatever your reason may be, you’re probably wondering if it’s even possible to move a staircase.

Basement stairs can be moved, but there are a few things you need to take into consideration before doing so. Here are a few factors to remember if you’re considering moving your basement stairs.

Check local building code - This is probably the most important thing to remember when considering moving your staircase. Different areas have different codes and requirements for staircases, so it's important to check with your local building department before making any changes.
Structural integrity - Moving a staircase is no small task, and it's important to make sure that the new location can support the weight of the staircase. A structural engineer will be able to tell you if the new location is suitable.
Cost - Moving a staircase is not a cheap project, so you need to be prepared for the cost. Not only do you have to pay for the materials and labor, you will also need to factor in the cost of any repairs that need to be made to the existing staircase.

Keep these factors in mind if you’re considering moving your basement stairs. It’s also important to consult with professionals to get the job done safely and correctly, so be sure to do so.

Step By Step Guide on How to Move a Basement Staircase

If you’ve decided that moving your staircase is right for you, then it’s time to start planning the project. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to move a basement staircase.

What you need:

If you have these tools, you’re ready to get started!

Step 1 - Removing the existing stairs

The first step is to remove the existing stairs. This may require a hammer and nails to loosen the treads and risers from the stringers. Once they are loose, you can carefully remove them and set them aside.

Moving basement stairs is not a one-person job, so make sure you have someone to help you with this step. Additionally, don’t forget the exterior wall. You will also need to remove the trim and siding from around the staircase opening. Finally, the old stairway space will need to be patched and repaired before you can install the new staircase.

Step 2 - Preparing the new location

Now that the old staircase has been removed, you can start preparing the new location. If you’re moving the stairs to a different part of the basement, then you’ll need to excavate the area where the new staircase will go.

This may require a shovel, and some other heavy-duty equipment. Once you’ve excavated the area, you can start building the new foundation for the stairs. Make sure that the floor space, stairway space, and foundation wall are level before you move on to the next step.

Step 3 - Installing the new stairs

Now it’s time to install the new stairs. This may require some help from a friend or family member. If the floor joists are in the way, you may need to cut them so that the new staircase can be installed.

First, you’ll need to attach the stringers to the foundation wall. Next, you’ll need to add the treads and risers to the stringers. Once everything is in place, you can install the handrail.

Don’t forget to add the trim and siding back to the exterior wall, because the new staircase needs to be protected from the elements.

Step 4 - Finishing touches

The final step is to add the finishing touches. This may include painting or staining the stairs, adding a carpet runner, or installing new lighting. Whatever you decide to do, make sure that the new stairs are safe and functional before you use them.

There you have it. These are the steps on how to move a basement staircase. If you follow these instructions, then you should be able to move your staircase without any problems.

What are the Benefits of Moving Your Basement Stairs?

There are several benefits of moving your basement stairs. Here are a few of them:

1. More space

One of the biggest benefits of moving your basement stairs is that it frees up space. If your current stairs are taking up a lot of space, then moving them can give you some much-needed extra room. The living space in your home is valuable, so anything you can do to increase it is a big plus.

2. Better layout

Removing your unfinished basement stairs can also improve the layout of your home. Moving stairs can also create a better flow for your home, if your current stairs are in an awkward location. This is especially true if you have an open-concept floor plan.

3. Improved safety

The old stair opening can be a safety hazard, especially for young children and pets. By moving your stairs, you can help prevent accidents. If the interior stairs are in good condition, you can also sell them or donate them to a local charity.

These are just a few of the benefits of moving your basement stairs. Just remember that before you start, you should consult with a professional to make sure that it’s possible to move your stairs.

Are Stairway Walls Load Bearing?

If your stairway is located in a load-bearing wall, then it cannot be moved without significant structural changes. Load-bearing walls support the weight of the house above them, so they must be carefully removed and replaced during a renovation.

However, if your stairway is not located in a load-bearing wall, then it may be possible to move it. This is a complex process, however, and it is often best to hire a professional contractor to do the work.

When is the Best Time to Move Your Basement Stairs?

The best time to move your basement stairs is during the construction of your home. This way, you can ensure that the new staircase will be properly installed, and won’t cause any damage to your home. Moving your stairs after your home is built may cause some problems, so it’s best to avoid them if possible.

While it’s possible to move your stairs, you should only do so if you’re absolutely sure that it won’t cause any damage to your home. Moving your stairs can also be a difficult and time-consuming process, so make sure that you’re prepared for it before you begin.

What to do After You've Moved Your Stairs?

After you’ve successfully moved your stairs, there are a few things you should do to ensure that they remain in good condition. Here are a few tips:

Inspect the stairs regularly

It’s important to inspect your stairs on a regular basis, especially if they’re located in an area that gets a lot of foot traffic. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or loose boards, and make sure to repair them as soon as possible.

Keep them clean

Stairs can get dirty quickly, so keeping them clean is important. Sweep or vacuum them on a regular basis, and if they start to look really dirty, you can always give them a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth.

Protect them from the elements

If your stairs are located outdoors, it’s important to protect them from the elements. Make sure to apply a coat of sealant or paint every few years to help keep them in good condition.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your stairs remain in good condition for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to move the basement stairs?

This is a difficult question to answer without looking at your specific basement and stair setup. Generally, it will cost between $200-$500 to move your stairs, depending on how complex the job is. Your contractor will need to assess the job, and give you a more accurate estimate.

How long does it take to move the basement stairs?

It will take some time to move the basement stairs. You will need to remove the carpeting, padding, and any trim or molding. The actual staircase can be moved in one day, but it may take longer to finish the project. So, it really depends on how much time you want to spend on the project.

Can I do it myself?

If you have basic carpentry skills and access to the necessary tools, you may be able to move your basement stairs yourself. However, this is a challenging project, and it’s important to make sure you understand all the potential risks before proceeding. If you’re not confident in your ability to complete the project safely, it’s best to hire a professional to do it for you.

Moving your stairs may not be as difficult as you first thought. With some careful planning and execution, you can have your basement stairs relocated in no time. Keep in mind the factors we discussed when making your decision, and you’ll be sure to end up with a space that works better for you and your family.