Ash is also a sustainable choice for staircases, as it is grown in managed forests and is a renewable resource. This makes it an environmentally friendly choice for those looking to use wood in their home construction or renovation projects.
One potential drawback to using ash for a staircase is that it can be more expensive upfront than some other types of wood. However, its long-term durability and strength may offset the initial cost, as a well-maintained ash staircase is likely to last for many years.
There are several parts of a staircase that are suitable for ash, including the treads, risers, and handrails. The treads are the horizontal surface of the stairs that you step on, and ash is a good choice for these due to its strength and shock-absorbing properties. Its natural springiness can help reduce fatigue when climbing stairs, especially for those who use them frequently. Ash is also a good choice for the risers, which are the vertical surfaces between the treads. Its durability and resistance to warping and shrinkage make it well-suited for this part of the staircase.
Ash is also a popular choice for handrails, which provide support and stability when climbing stairs. Its strength and durability make it well-suited for use as a handrail, and it can be finished in a variety of ways to match the rest of the staircase.
Overall, ash is a popular choice for wooden staircases in Ireland due to its strength, durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Its good shock-absorbing properties and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for a structure that is subjected to constant use, and its sustainability as a renewable resource makes it an environmentally friendly choice for home construction and renovation projects. While it may be more expensive upfront than some other types of wood, its long-term value and performance make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.