Why Choose an Oak Balcony or External Oak Staircase?

An external oak staircase or balcony combines substantial timber construction with the natural durability and character of oak. The design, timber sections and connections all contribute to long-term strength and stability.

Substantial Oak Sections

• 140 × 140 mm minimum posts
• 75 × 270 mm strings
• 50 × 250 mm treads
• 100 × 100 mm handrails

Larger sections provide greater stiffness and, importantly, enough timber for strong traditional joints.

Traditional Mortise-and-Tenon Joinery

Where suitable, we use mortise-and-tenon joints with oak pegs rather than relying solely on screws and brackets. Proper joint proportions and sufficient timber around the tenon help accommodate the natural movement of oak.

Protecting Oak from Ground Moisture

Structural posts are kept above ground or paving on suitable metal post bases. This helps prevent prolonged contact with standing moisture and is an important detail in any external oak structure.

Concrete Foundation

For balconies and staircases, foundations must suit the loads, post positions and ground conditions. Depending on the design, this may mean a reinforced concrete slab or individual concrete pads.