By Gavin Brown, CEO, Think Timber
When a buyer walks into a new home, the staircase is often the first feature they notice. It’s a focal point that shapes their perception of quality and design. For house builders, however, staircases are more than a visual statement – they have influence over project efficiency, cost control, and sustainability. Despite this, staircase specification has barely evolved for decades, and vague, low-cost approaches remain common.
As developments grow in scale and sustainability targets tighten, the risks of poor specification are magnified. A single misstep can ripple across multiple plots, creating inconsistencies, wasting materials, and impacting timelines and margins.
Why Specification Matters
Leaving details open to interpretation is a recipe for problems. When different suppliers or regional teams apply their own standards, variations creep in which can lead to mismatched profiles, site rework, and frustrated customers. Taking ownership of specification and ensuring every partner adheres to it delivers clear benefits, such as:
- Consistent quality across all developments
- Reduced miscommunication and site disruption
- Stronger brand reputation
- Greater efficiency for site teams
It’s a straightforward change that pays dividends in high-volume housing.
Innovation That Solves Real Problems
Innovation isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about addressing long-standing challenges. One example is CaLc-3p, our engineered timber solution designed to replace poor-quality white primed timber. Historically, low-grade primed timber inflated decorating costs and slowed down projects. But by applying two coats of CaLc-3p during the manufacturing process on defect-free engineered pine, it delivers a smooth, ready-to-paint finish that cuts decorating costs by up to £200 per staircase and saves valuable time on site. And, should the product come into contact with dirt or grime, CaLc-3p is extremely durable, and any marks can be lightly sanded off using fine sandpaper for a smooth, ready-to-paint finish.
Every batch is digitally traceable via QR code, linking origin, quality checks, and FSC or PEFC certifications, and supported by flexible logistics and contingency stock – ensuring reliability even at scale.
The Engineered Timber Advantage
A common myth is that engineered staircase components aren't made from real wood. In fact, it’s built from layers of genuine timber, topped with a premium oak or pine veneer, that delivers the same natural beauty as solid planks. Another misconception is that engineered components lack durability. Their layered construction actually enhances stability, reducing the risk of warping and allowing them to handle shifts in heat and humidity far better than traditional solid wood.
As a result, engineered timber offers precision, consistency, and sustainability. It enables manufacturers to produce components to exact specifications with minimal waste – supporting environmental goals while keeping costs stable. From moisture-resistant baserails to pre-primed handrails, engineered timber provides versatility and reliability at scale.
Looking Ahead
Regulations are tightening, buyers expect more, and sustainability is now a baseline requirement. Staircases may seem like a small detail, but they represent a strategic opportunity to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and elevate design.
Specification is a competitive edge. By combining design thinking, engineered timber, and supply chain innovation, we help house builders deliver homes that stand out for quality, consistency, and sustainability. The staircase might be one of the most overlooked features when building a home, but its impact is far-reaching. Now is the time to get it right.
