Your questions,
answered

Staircase costs vary widely depending on type, size and materials. Here's a rough guide:

• Basic straight timber staircase: from $3,000–$5,000
• Mid-range with glass balustrades: $8,000–$18,000
• Premium floating or curved staircase: $20,000 upwards

The most accurate way to get a price is a free site visit — we'll assess your space and provide a fixed-price quote with no hidden extras.

Yes — completely free and no obligation. We offer free in-home site visits across all of Melbourne and the Geelong region. Our team comes to your property, measures your space, discusses your options and provides a detailed fixed-price quote. There is absolutely no cost and no pressure to proceed.

Yes — all our quotes are fixed-price. What we quote is what you pay. We don't add variations or charge for extras that come up during installation. The only exception is if you change the scope of the project after the quote has been accepted — in which case we'll discuss and agree on any additional cost before proceeding.

This means you can budget with confidence. We'd rather be thorough at the quoting stage than surprise you at invoice time.

Shower screen pricing depends on system type, size and hardware finish. Indicative pricing for a standard alcove:

• Framed system: from $600 (supply & install)
• Semi-frameless system: from $900 (supply & install)
• Frameless system: from $1,400 (supply & install)

Corner and walk-in configurations are priced individually. Get in touch for a free measure-up and fixed quote for your specific bathroom.

Glass balustrade pricing per linear metre (supply and install):

• Framed system: from $350/lm
• Semi-frameless system: from $550/lm
• Frameless system: from $850/lm

Final pricing depends on glass thickness, fixing method, run length, hardware finish and site conditions. Contact us for a free measure and fixed-price quote.

We typically require a deposit when you confirm your order, with the balance due on completion of the installation. The exact deposit percentage and payment schedule will be outlined clearly in your quote. We accept bank transfer and discuss payment arrangements at the time of quoting. We never ask for full payment upfront.

We build every major staircase type including:

• Straight staircases — the most practical and popular option
• L-shaped and U-shaped staircases — great for corner spaces and larger homes
• Spiral staircases — space-saving and dramatic
• Floating / open-riser staircases — a contemporary architectural feature
• Curved and helical staircases — fully custom, statement-making designs

Every staircase we build is custom-designed for your specific space — not selected from a catalogue.

We work with a wide range of materials including:

• Hardwood timber — spotted gum, blackbutt, oak, pine
• MDF and painted finishes — cost-effective and clean
• Structural steel — mild steel, powder-coated in any Dulux colour
• Toughened glass — for balustrades and open-riser panels
• Marble and engineered stone — for luxury tread finishes

You can visit our Dandenong South or Geelong showroom to see and touch material samples in person before deciding.

From confirmed order to completed installation, typically:

• Straight staircase renovation: 3–5 weeks
• New straight or L-shaped staircase: 4–6 weeks
• Spiral staircase: 5–7 weeks
• Floating or curved staircase: 6–10 weeks

These timelines include design finalisation, manufacturing at our Dandenong South workshop, and scheduling the installation. We'll confirm your specific timeline at the quoting stage and keep you updated throughout.

Absolutely — staircase renovation is one of our most popular services and often delivers a dramatic transformation at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement. If the underlying structure is sound, we can replace just the visible elements: treads, risers, balustrade system and handrail.

We'll inspect your existing staircase during the free site visit and give you an honest assessment of what needs replacing versus what can be kept. Often a renovation costs 30–50% of a full replacement while achieving a comparable visual result.

In most cases, replacing an existing staircase does not require a building permit — it falls under routine renovation work. However, if you're adding a new staircase as part of a larger renovation or extension that requires a permit, the staircase will need to be covered under those plans.

We work closely with builders and can liaise with your building surveyor if needed. We'll advise you on permit requirements at the consultation stage based on the specifics of your project.

Under the National Construction Code (NCC 2022) and BCA, key requirements for residential stairs include:

• Rise: 115mm minimum, 190mm maximum per step
• Going (tread depth): 240mm minimum, 355mm maximum
• Minimum staircase width: 500mm clear width
• Handrail height: 865mm–1000mm measured from stair nosing
• Balustrade height: 1000mm minimum above floor level

All Best Stairs installations are designed and built to comply with current NCC and BCA requirements as a standard part of every project.

Our spiral staircases are available from 1200mm diameter upwards, making them suitable for quite small footprints. However, for comfortable daily use we recommend a minimum diameter of 1500mm. For the spiral to be BCA compliant for a primary staircase (rather than occasional access), it needs to meet the minimum going and rise requirements — we design each spiral to meet these requirements within your available space.

We'll assess your available floor opening and ceiling height during the free site visit to confirm what's possible.

Open-riser staircases are safe when designed correctly. Under the NCC, any opening in a staircase or balustrade must not allow a 125mm sphere to pass through — this prevents children from getting their heads or bodies stuck. We design all open-riser staircases to comply with this requirement.

For families with young children, we'd typically recommend either a closed-riser staircase or an open-riser design with a balustrade on both sides. We can discuss the best approach for your family during the consultation.

Frameless uses 12mm toughened glass held by low-profile floor channels or stainless spigots with no visible frame. The cleanest and most premium look, but the most expensive option.

Semi-frameless uses 10mm glass between slimline posts, spaced at 900–1200mm centres. A good balance of appearance and value — our most popular system.

Framed uses a full aluminium or steel frame around each glass panel. The most practical and durable, commonly used in commercial settings or rental properties.

Yes — glass balustrades are excellent for outdoor use on decks, balconies, pool areas and elevated walkways. We use Grade 316 marine-grade stainless steel for all outdoor hardware, which is highly corrosion-resistant even in coastal environments. The toughened glass panels are inherently weather-resistant. For coastal properties, we recommend regular rinsing with fresh water to maintain the hardware finish.

Under NCC 2022 for residential buildings in Victoria, balustrades must be at least 1000mm high when adjacent to a floor more than 1m above the surface below. For stairs, the balustrade must be at least 865mm measured from the stair nosing. Pool fencing has additional requirements under AS 1926.1. We design all installations to comply with current Victorian requirements.

Glass balustrades are very low maintenance. A regular wipe with a damp cloth or glass cleaner keeps the panels clear. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. For outdoor systems, a monthly rinse with fresh water and occasional glass cleaner is sufficient. Wipe stainless hardware with a damp cloth and dry to prevent water spots. Applying a glass protection coating at installation can significantly reduce maintenance frequency — ask us about this option.

Yes — this is one of the most popular upgrades we carry out. We remove your existing balustrade, assess the structure, and install a new glass system. The transformation is significant and typically takes one to two days for a standard residential staircase. The cost is generally similar to a new installation as the old system removal and preparation work is included.

Most standard shower screen installations take half a day to one full day. A simple alcove screen typically takes 2–3 hours. A corner or walk-in configuration with multiple panels may take a full day. The timeline from ordering to installation is usually 2–4 weeks to allow time for cutting, toughening and hardware preparation. We confirm your installation date when you place the order.

Yes — we encounter this in nearly every installation. We measure at multiple heights to account for walls that are out of plumb or vary in tile thickness. Glass panels are cut to accommodate these variations and silicone sealant is applied along all edges to create a perfectly watertight seal regardless of wall irregularities.

Frameless shower screens use 10mm toughened safety glass as standard, with 12mm available for larger unsupported panels. Semi-frameless systems use 8–10mm toughened glass. Framed systems use 6mm toughened glass, as the frame provides the structural support. All glass is AS/NZS 2208 compliant for wet area safety glazing.

After each shower, a quick squeegee wipe removes most water marks. A weekly clean with glass cleaner or diluted white vinegar keeps the screen sparkling. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Wipe hardware with a damp cloth and dry to prevent water spots. We recommend a glass protection coating at installation — this significantly reduces water spotting and makes weekly cleaning much faster.

Absolutely — replacing an old framed screen with a new frameless or semi-frameless system is one of the fastest bathroom upgrades available. We remove the existing screen, check the tile and wall condition, and install the new screen in the same visit where possible. The transformation is significant and typically takes one day. This is popular for partial bathroom renovations where you want to refresh the look without retiling.

Yes — we cut mirrors to virtually any size, from small bathroom panels under 300mm to large feature mirrors over 2400mm as a single piece. For very large installations we use multi-panel arrangements with tight joints that are nearly invisible at normal viewing distance. We supply bathroom, feature wall, gym, wardrobe and dressing room mirrors across Melbourne and Geelong.

Standard mirror glass uses a copper layer in the backing. In wet areas, moisture can penetrate over time and cause black or brown edge corrosion known as "foxing". Copper-free mirror eliminates this by using moisture-resistant backing. We strongly recommend copper-free glass for all bathroom and wet-area applications — it adds a small cost but significantly extends the mirror's life.

Our toughened glass splashbacks are available in virtually any colour. We use a painted-back glass process where the colour is applied to the rear face of the toughened glass, giving a smooth, seamless front surface. Colours can be matched to any paint swatch, tile colour or kitchen scheme. The glass is heat-resistant and suitable for behind stoves and cooktops. We supply splashbacks for kitchens, bathrooms and laundries across Melbourne.

Yes — we supply and install sliding wardrobe door systems with mirror and glass panels, custom-made to your exact opening dimensions. Options include full-mirror doors, partial-mirror doors and frosted or tinted glass panels. Systems are available in aluminium track frames in a range of colours. Floor-to-ceiling configurations are available and are excellent for maximising the sense of space in a bedroom.

The easiest ways to get started are:

• Fill in our online quote form — we'll respond within one business day
• Call our Dandenong South team on +61 403 116 098
• Call our Geelong team on +61 489 995 711
• Visit either of our showrooms during business hours — no appointment needed

After your initial contact, we'll arrange a free site visit at a time that suits you.

Here's the typical process:

• 1. Site visit: We come to your property to measure, assess and discuss your project
• 2. Design & quote: We prepare a detailed design and fixed-price quote, usually within 2–3 business days
• 3. Order confirmation: You review and accept the quote, pay a deposit
• 4. Manufacturing: We build your components in our Dandenong South workshop
• 5. Installation: Our team installs at your property — typically one to two days for most projects
• 6. Handover: Walk-through, clean-up and workmanship guarantee issued

All our products are manufactured at our workshop in Dandenong South, Melbourne. We don't outsource manufacturing or import products. Every staircase, glass component and hardware fitting is made right here in Victoria to the exact specifications of your project. This gives us complete control over quality at every stage of production.

No — we never use subcontractors. The same team that designs and builds your staircase or glass product also installs it. This means complete accountability and consistency from the very first site visit through to final handover. You'll always be dealing with Best Stairs people, not third parties.

Yes — every installation comes with a workmanship guarantee. If anything is not right with our work, we'll fix it at no cost to you. The specific terms are outlined in your quote documentation. We also carry comprehensive public liability insurance on every project. In the rare event of a problem, call us directly — we respond quickly and take full responsibility for the quality of our installations.

We have two showrooms across Victoria:

• Dandenong South (Melbourne): 16/18–20 Rhur Street, Dandenong South VIC 3175 · +61 403 116 098
• Geelong (Armstrong Creek): 534 Boundary Road, Armstrong Creek VIC 3217 · +61 489 995 711

Both showrooms are open Monday–Friday 8am–5pm and Saturday 9am–2pm. No appointment needed — walk in any time during business hours.

We service all of greater Melbourne — from the CBD and inner suburbs to all eastern, western, northern and southern suburbs, and the outer growth corridors. This includes south-east suburbs like Dandenong, Narre Warren, Berwick, Frankston and Cranbourne through to inner suburbs like Richmond, South Yarra and Toorak, and outer areas like Pakenham, Melton and Whittlesea.

We also cover the Mornington Peninsula. If you're unsure, call us on +61 403 116 098 and we'll confirm.

Yes — our Armstrong Creek showroom is dedicated to the Geelong region, Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula. We regularly work in Torquay, Jan Juc, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Drysdale, Leopold and all surrounding areas. Our Geelong team can be reached on +61 489 995 711.

No appointment needed — you're welcome to walk in any time during business hours (Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat 9am–2pm). Our team will be happy to show you around, discuss your project and answer questions. If you're travelling from a distance or want to make sure a specific team member is available, feel free to call ahead to let us know you're coming.

Yes — all structural work we carry out meets Building Code of Australia (BCA) and National Construction Code (NCC 2022) requirements. All our glass products comply with AS/NZS 2208 (Safety Glazing). We are fully licensed tradespeople and carry comprehensive public liability insurance on every project. We're happy to provide evidence of licensing and insurance upon request.

All our glass balustrades, shower screens, splashbacks and mirror products use glass that complies with AS/NZS 2208 — Safety Glazing Materials in Buildings. This is the Australian and New Zealand standard for safety glazing, mandatory for all glazing in balustrade and wet area applications. Balustrade systems also comply with AS 1170 (Structural Loads) for impact and wind loading requirements.

Yes — all our pool fencing installations comply with AS 1926.1 Swimming Pool Safety, which is mandatory for all Victorian residential pools. Key requirements include a minimum height of 1200mm, non-climbable zones, and gap restrictions to prevent children from passing through or getting trapped. We design and install pool fencing to meet all current Victorian requirements and can advise on certification requirements for your specific council.

We carry comprehensive public liability insurance on every project. In the unlikely event of any damage to your property during our installation, you are covered. All our work also comes with a workmanship guarantee — if the installation is not right, we fix it at no cost. We take full responsibility for the quality of our work and respond quickly to any post-installation issues. Contact us directly and we'll be there.