Timber Stairs in Brisbane & Sunshine Coast

Timber staircases bring natural warmth, character and timeless elegance to Queensland homes. As specialist timber staircase builders, Craftsman Stairs designs, manufactures and installs custom timber stairs across Brisbane, Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast using Australia's finest hardwood species.

Why Choose Timber Stairs?

• Natural beauty — Every piece of timber has a unique grain pattern, creating a one-of-a-kind staircase
• Warmth underfoot — Timber feels warm and comfortable compared to steel, concrete or stone
• Versatility — Suits every architectural style from traditional Queenslander to ultra-modern
• Durability — Australian hardwoods are among the world's most durable timbers, with Janka hardness ratings exceeding many imported alternatives
• Sustainability — Responsibly sourced Australian timber is a renewable, carbon-storing building material
• Refinishable — Unlike other materials, timber can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifetime

Popular Australian Timber Species

Choosing the right timber species is critical for both appearance and performance. Our comprehensive timber guide covers every option in detail. The most popular species for Brisbane staircases include:

• Spotted Gum — Rich brown tones with distinctive grain, Janka hardness 11.0 kN
• Blackbutt — Light golden colour, straight grain, Janka hardness 9.1 kN
• Tasmanian Oak — Pale timber with pink and honey tones, Janka hardness 6.5 kN
• Tallowwood — Naturally oily, excellent for external applications, Janka hardness 8.6 kN
• Ironbark — Extremely hard and durable, deep red-brown colour, Janka hardness 14.0 kN

Internal vs External Timber Stairs

Internal Timber Stairs

Internal timber staircases benefit from a controlled environment and can use a wider range of species and finishes. They are protected from UV, rain and humidity extremes, allowing even softer species and delicate finishes to perform well.

External Timber Stairs

External timber staircases must withstand Queensland's subtropical climate. Durability Class 1 or 2 hardwoods (Spotted Gum, Tallowwood, Ironbark) are recommended, with marine-grade finishes and slip-resistant treatments.

Design Styles

• Traditional closed-stringer — Classic design with treads housed within solid timber stringers
• Open tread with steel stringers — Modern timber treads on steel frames for a contemporary look
• Floating timber treads — Cantilevered hardwood treads for maximum visual impact
• Curved timber — Sweeping laminated timber stringers for grand, elegant designs

Finishing Options

The finish protects the timber and defines the final appearance:

• Polyurethane — Available in matte, satin and gloss, providing a durable, moisture-resistant surface
• Hardwax oil — A natural, low-sheen finish that penetrates the timber and is easy to maintain and repair
• Stain + clear coat — Alter the timber's colour while retaining the natural grain
• Paint — Solid colour paint, typically white, for Hampton and coastal styles

Maintenance Tips

Keeping your timber staircase in top condition is straightforward:

• Sweep or vacuum treads regularly to remove grit that can scratch the finish
• Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining
• Place felt pads on furniture legs near the staircase
• Re-coat with polyurethane or oil every 3–5 years for internal stairs
• External stairs should be re-oiled or re-coated annually

Contact Craftsman Stairs for a free quote on your custom timber staircase project in Brisbane, Moreton Bay or the Sunshine Coast.

Frequently Asked Questions