MEASUREMENTS OF STAIRCASE AND OPENING
How do I calculate the diameter or width of the staircase I need?
The easiest way to get this information is to download the technical data sheet for your staircase model , which includes all configurations and measurements. As a guideline, the diameter of winding staircases must be at least 5cm smaller than the diameter of the opening. For instance, for a Gamia Wood staircase with a diameter of 150 cm an opening of 155cm is required, or a square opening of 155x155cm. In open staircases the width can be equal or smaller than that of the opening. For further information please refer to the detailed product description and the corresponding technical data sheets.
How do I know whether the staircase fits my opening?
If you are purchasing an open staircase, our “Configuration wizard” will guide you through the purchase by recommending the optimal staircase width for your opening. If you are purchasing a winding staircase, the staircase diameter must generally be at least 5cm smaller than the opening. For further information please refer to the detailed product description and the corresponding technical data.
Which measurements do I need?
Apart from floor-to-.floor height and slab thickness, you need the measurements of the opening and walls for the top floor and the starting floor. For circular openings diameter measurements are required. For square openings all you need is the measurement of the side (please make sure that the shape is that of a perfect square and not of a rectangle). For rectangular openings you need the measurements of the 4 sides. For a correct use of the “Configuration wizard” it is also necessary to know the exact measurements of the walls of the starting floor and the top floor..
How do I take the measurements?
It is very important to take accurate measurements. To this end, it is also advisable to wait until any masonry work has been completed in order to avoid discrepancies between the final values and the measurements taken before the completion of the work. The measurements of the walls and opening are simple linear measurements. When measuring the height (floor-to-floor and slab thickness) it is advisable to make yourself familiar with the exact meaning of these terms. Refer to the glossary section for the exact definition. Remember, however, that Rintal staircases come with an adjustable riser (some models also have an adjustable tread) specifically designed to allow you to adjust them to the different height measurements during the assembly stage. The minimum and maximum riser measurements for each staircase are listed in the detailed model description and corresponding technical data sheet. In many cases it is also possible to purchase additional stairs as accessories.
ASSEMBLY
How long does it take to assemble a staircase?
Misterstep staircases are designed to make the installation as easy as possible. The time required to install the staircase will vary according to the manual skills and expertise of the person who carries out the assembly. Usually, one or two days suffice. Rintal recommends users to carefully read the instructions and watch the assembly instructions DVD before they start.
Which tools do I need?
The list of the required tools is included in the users manual supplied with the staircase. The manual may also be downloaded from our website. All the necessary tools are readily available in specialised shops (hardware and DIY shops etc.)
Are these tools included in the staircase kit?
No. The box contains all the necessary item to assemble the staircase such as components, fixings, screws and nuts and bolts. It does not, however, contain any assembly tools.
Will I need the help of a professional fitter?
Generally this is not required. However if you have never used a drill, assembled a shelf/wardrobe or carried out any manual work, Rintal strongly suggests that you contact a professional. You can call your Misterstep dealer for more information on our installation services.
Are the assembly manuals supplied?
Yes. The boxes contain a practical and comprehensive instructions manual and a demonstration DVD to take you through the installation process step by step.
What happens if I lose my assembly instructions?
Do not panic! You can download them from our e-commerce site at any time.
TECHNICAL DATA
How do I know whether I need a particular accessory?
Every single accessory available for purchase in our catalogue comes with a description of its function, which will give you an indication of how recommendable the accessory is in your case.
How do I calculate how much safety balustrade I need?
The safety balustrade is used to protect all sides of the opening when the top floor is not protected by a wall. All you need to do is measure the length of the sides and round the figure up to the next meter. You will need to purchase as many meters of balustrade as the number of meters that need to be protected. The balustrade kits are available as accessories. They are modular and designed to be linked to one another to cover greater lengths.
Which materials are the staircases made of?
The answer will depend on the type of staircase. The materials are listed in the product data sheet. All the wooden parts are in beech wood. We have chosen beech wood because it is robust and scratch resistant and its structural properties make it particularly suitable for staircases. The banister, balustrade and the majority of the nuts and bolts are in painted steel some of the fixing components may be made of plastic material. For further information please see the product technical data sheet.
What does and adjustable riser do?
The adjustable riser allows the distance in height between steps to be adjusted. This practical system allows users to adjust the height of the staircase during the assembly stage, thus making the staircase perfectly integrated into the environment.
What does an adjustable tread do?
Some models allow the horizontal distance between steps to be adjusted during the assembly stage. In a similar way to the adjustable riser, this system allows the staircase to be perfectly tailored to the real living conditions and available space.
Can the staircases be installed outdoors?
The only Misterstep staircase designed to be used outdoors is the Exterior model. This model has been treated with a special process called “cataphoresis” to make it weatherproof and immune to the frequent problems associated with the more common “galvanised” products
Where do I find the technical details of the different models?
Every Misterstep model has a dedicated page containing a brief description and some basic technical data. For further details, please click on the link available on the description page and download the full product technical data sheet.