Exterior Metal Stairs That Do More Than Just Connect Levels
External staircases have a tough job. They need to be safe, weatherproof, and built to handle daily footfall without degrading over time. At Formost Fabrications, we design, fabricate and install exterior metal stairs that do all of that, and more.
Whether for a fire escape, plantroom access, or a secondary entrance to a public building, these staircases aren’t just bolt-ons. They’re integral to how a space functions, how people move, and how the building performs over time.
Why Metal Is the Material of Choice
When it comes to external steel staircases, there’s a reason why steel continues to lead the pack. Timber warps, concrete stains, and fibreglass lacks structural integrity over time. Mild steel, stainless steel and galvanised steel, by contrast, deliver on strength, longevity, and low maintenance.
- Mild steel is a versatile, cost-effective option that we can powder coat in virtually any colour.
- Stainless steel offers corrosion resistance with a polished finish, ideal for higher-traffic areas with aesthetic considerations.
- Galvanised steel is our go-to for outdoor staircases exposed to the elements, offering exceptional rust and corrosion resistance.
Each material has a role depending on the project type, usage patterns, and environmental exposure.
Spiral Staircases That Save Space
In tight spaces, a traditional run might not fit. This is where spiral staircases come into their own. Exterior spiral staircases are compact, stylish and surprisingly versatile. They provide efficient access without demanding a large footprint, making them ideal for rear entrances, rooftop access, or garden terraces.
We fabricate spiral stairs in-house, adjusting for height, tread spacing, handrail style, and surface finish. Whether it’s for a commercial venue or residential setting, spiral stairs deliver both form and function.
Built for Compliance, Designed for Use
All our exterior metal stairs are fabricated to meet current UK building regulations, including tread depths, riser heights, handrail positioning, and load-bearing capacity. But we don’t stop at box-ticking.
The stairs must feel right too; we pay attention to comfortable handrail grip, slip-resistant surfaces, consistent transitions between landings, and details that make day-to-day use safer and smoother.
That’s especially important for access staircases on commercial and public sites. Whether you’re housing plant equipment on a mezzanine or need a fire-safe escape route, usability and compliance go hand in hand.
Tailored for Every Site
No two buildings are the same, and neither are the staircases they require. We begin every project with a site survey and design consultation, using CAD modelling to visualise the structure and ensure a precise fit.
We account for:
- Connection points to existing platforms or buildings
- Load-bearing requirements for the intended use
- Visual integration with the surrounding space
- Safety elements like mid-rails, balustrades, and landings
From single-flight stairs to complex multi-access fire escapes, we can scale to suit. All fabrication is completed in our Surrey workshop before being installed on site by our own team.
What About Staircase Cost?
If you’re comparing exterior metal stairs’ cost between materials or suppliers, it helps to understand what you’re paying for. With exterior metal stairs, price depends on more than just length and height.
Factors affecting cost include:
- Straight vs spiral configuration
- Number of landings or turns
- Material choice and finish (e.g. galvanised, stainless, painted)
- Handrails, mid-rails, mesh or plate infills
- Site access and installation complexity
At Formost Fabrications, we’re transparent from the outset. You’ll receive a clear, itemised quote and a reliable timeline. No guesswork. No overspend. Just high-quality exterior stairs that are built to last.
Choose a Fabricator That Gets the Bigger Picture
We’ve supplied external staircases to schools, industrial sites, retail buildings, public venues, and domestic properties across the South East. What sets us apart is not just fabrication, but integration. We understand that your staircase needs to be more than functional. It needs to last, comply, and look good doing it.
📧 enquiries@formostfabrications.co.uk
FAQ
What materials do you recommend for outdoor staircases?
For most external applications, we recommend galvanised steel for rust resistance and longevity. For projects needing a higher-end look, stainless steel works well. Mild steel is ideal when powder coating is desired.
Are spiral staircases suitable for external use?
Yes. Spiral staircases are excellent for tight outdoor spaces and secondary access points. When built in galvanised or stainless steel, they’re safe, weather-resistant and compliant.
How long do exterior metal stairs last?
With proper material selection and finish, metal staircases can last decades. Galvanised steel, in particular, resists corrosion even in coastal or high-rainfall areas.
Do you provide design and installation?
Yes. We handle the entire process in-house, from CAD modelling to fabrication and on-site installation. This ensures a smooth workflow and consistent results.
Can exterior stairs be custom-made to suit awkward spaces?
Absolutely. We specialise in bespoke solutions. Whether you need a staircase to wrap around a corner, match a façade, or navigate limited access points, we can fabricate to suit.
Do external staircases need to meet specific building regulations?
Yes. External staircases must comply with UK building regulations covering tread size, riser height, handrail height, and overall safety. We design every structure with full compliance built in.
