The Premium Materials Used in SCALUX Staircases

Why materials define quality

An interior staircase is used multiple times a day, every day, for decades. The materials it is made from determine not only its appearance on day one, but how it ages, how it performs underfoot, and how much maintenance it requires. At SCALUX, material selection is never an afterthought.

Solid beech - the standard for staircase treads

European beech (Fagus sylvatica) is the benchmark timber for interior staircase treads:

• Density and hardness - beech is significantly denser than pine or spruce, with a Janka hardness that resists daily foot traffic without denting.
• Fine, uniform grain - smooth to the touch, consistent in colour, and responsive to staining.
• Dimensional stability - properly dried beech moves less with seasonal humidity changes than many other timbers.
• European provenance - SCALUX sources beech from sustainably managed European forests.

At SCALUX, beech treads are supplied in two standard finishes: natural lacquered and walnut-stained. Many models also offer unfinished treads for complete personalisation.

Solid pine - for character and warmth

Used in the RUSTIC model, solid pine offers a different aesthetic proposition: a softer, knotty timber with visible grain character. Lighter in colour, warmer in feel, and conveying a sense of crafted authenticity. Whilst softer than beech, pine's character actually improves with age - the marks become part of the story.

Lacquered multiplex - the engineered option

Used in the QUADRO model, lacquered multiplex (multi-layer plywood with a factory lacquer finish) offers:

• Exceptional dimensional stability - engineered layers cross each other, eliminating seasonal movement.
• Factory finish - consistent, smooth, durable and ready to use without additional treatment.
• Modern aesthetic - the clean, uniform surface suits contemporary interiors precisely.

Powder-coated steel - the structural backbone

All SCALUX steel frames are treated with electrostatic powder coating. This process electrostatically bonds powdered paint particles to the metal surface, then cures them in an oven to create a seamless, hardwearing finish that:

• Resists scratching, chipping and UV fading.
• Is available in white, grey and black - neutral tones that work across design styles.
• Requires no periodic repainting - only occasional cleaning.

Stainless steel - where precision meets permanence

On models such as the Lumia, lower feet and certain contact points use stainless steel. Stainless steel does not rust, corrode or stain - it is the material of choice for points of mechanical stress where longevity is non-negotiable.

PVC handrails - ergonomics by design

The Lumia model features a PVC handrail with a 40 mm diameter - the ergonomically optimal diameter for a hand grip that provides confident support on the ascent and descent. PVC is comfortable to grip, does not conduct cold (unlike bare metal), and is resistant to wear.

Conclusion

Every material in a SCALUX staircase has been chosen for a reason: to perform, to endure and to look right. When you choose a SCALUX staircase, you are choosing materials that will still be performing beautifully in 20 years.