Custom metal stairs are one of the most visually striking — and structurally demanding — fabrication projects we handle at Thor Metal Art. From floating steel staircases in Coral Gables to spiral stairs in Brickell penthouses, here’s what to know before you start your Miami stair project.
Types of Custom Metal Stairs We Build in Miami
- Floating stairs (open-riser): Individual treads cantilevered or supported by a central spine beam. Clean, modern, and visually open. Common in new construction and luxury remodels throughout Miami-Dade.
- Spiral staircases: Compact footprint, ideal for indoor/outdoor access. Available in steel, aluminum, or stainless steel. Great for rooftop terraces and pool level access.
- Straight-run steel stairs: Structural steel frame with wood, concrete, or steel pan treads. The most economical option for residential and light commercial use.
- Commercial steel stairs: Engineered for high-traffic applications — office buildings, retail, mixed-use. Includes grating, diamond plate, or poured concrete treads.
Miami Building Code for Metal Stairs
Florida Building Code Section 1011 governs stair geometry. Key requirements for most residential projects:
- Minimum width: 36 inches clear for residential, 44 inches for commercial
- Max riser height: 7¾ inches
- Min tread depth: 10 inches
- Handrail height: 34–38 inches above the stair nosing
- Guardrail height: 42 inches minimum at landings and open sides
- Baluster spacing: Maximum 4-inch opening (no 4-inch sphere can pass through)
We coordinate all permits and inspections with Miami-Dade Building Department. Our drawings are engineer-stamped when required.
Railing & Infill Options for Metal Stairs
The railing system defines the character of the staircase as much as the structure itself:
- Steel cable rail: Minimalist, unobstructed views. Requires stainless steel hardware for Miami’s coastal humidity.
- Glass infill panels: Frameless or framed. Maximum visual openness. Common in high-end residential in Brickell and Coconut Grove.
- Steel bar balusters: Traditional appearance. Vertical, horizontal, or custom pattern. Most cost-effective option.
- Laser-cut decorative panels: Custom patterns — from geometric to organic — cut by water jet. Unique to each project.
What Custom Metal Stairs Cost in Miami
Stair pricing depends heavily on structure type, span, and finish level:
- Straight steel stair (10 risers, basic): $8,000 – $15,000 installed
- Floating steel stair (10 risers, spine beam): $15,000 – $30,000 installed
- Spiral staircase (standard residential): $6,000 – $14,000 installed
- Commercial steel stair (per flight): $12,000 – $35,000 depending on code requirements
Every quote includes design, fabrication, surface finishing, delivery, and installation. Permit fees are billed separately at cost.
Timeline: From Design to Installed
Most custom stair projects at Thor Metal Art follow this timeline:
- Week 1–2: On-site measurement, design drawings, and written estimate
- Week 2–4: Design approval and permit submission (if required)
- Week 4–8: Fabrication in our Miami-Dade workshop
- Week 8–10: Installation and final inspection
Start Your Miami Stair Project
We work with homeowners, architects, and contractors across Miami-Dade and Broward. Free on-site consultations — no commitment required.
Call (786) 854-7309 or request a free estimate online. Projects in Coral Gables, Brickell, Pinecrest, Wynwood, Aventura, and all surrounding areas.