FAQ
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In the following subcategories
Company & general information
Who is Columbus Treppen AG?
We are a Swiss company that specializes in the planning, production and installation of individual staircase solutions. We develop both functional and architecturally sophisticated staircases for residential and commercial buildings.
Where is our head office located?
Our head office is located in Oberbüren in the canton of St. Gallen. Production and the largest of three exhibitions are also located there.
How many employees work for us?
We employ around 90 people from various specialist areas such as consulting, sales, planning, production and assembly.
What services do we offer?
We offer advice, design, planning, production and installation of staircases. Individual special solutions and a comprehensive network of consultants are our strengths.
How long have we been in the staircase construction business?
We have several decades of experience in staircase construction and have completed numerous projects in Switzerland during this time.
What philosophy or quality standards do we pursue?
We have several decades of experience in staircase construction and have completed numerous projects in Switzerland during this time.
In which regions of Switzerland are we active?
The projects are realized throughout Switzerland, with a particular focus on German-speaking and French-speaking Switzerland.
You can find more information about us at:
Locations & Contact
Where are our exhibitions located?
Exhibitions are located in Oberbüren, Niederbipp and Volketswil, among other places. Customers can view various staircase types and materials there.
What locations are there in Switzerland?
The main locations include Oberbüren (headquarters), Niederbipp, Volketswil, Münchenbuchsee and Le Locle.
How can I make an appointment for a consultation?
You can make an appointment for a consultation in an exhibition or directly at your property using the contact form on the website or by telephone.
How do I find my regional contact?
The website lists contacts by region. There is also a search function by zip code on the homepage. Alternatively, the appropriate contact person can be arranged via the head office.
What contact options do we offer?
Customers can reach us by phone, e-mail or via the contact form on the website.
You can find all contact options at:
Planning a staircase
How does the planning of an individual staircase work?
The first step is a consultation, during which requirements and design wishes are discussed. After taking measurements on site, a plan is drawn up that takes dimensions, materials and design into account.
What information do we need for staircase planning?
Important information includes building plans, room heights, floor plans, desired materials and design ideas.
Can a staircase be completely customized?
Yes, staircases are usually planned individually and can be adapted to the customer’s wishes in terms of shape, material and design.
What role do architects or building planners play in planning?
Architects often provide the structural basis and work closely with us to integrate a functional and aesthetic staircase.
Is on-site advice offered?
Yes, if required, an inspection is carried out directly on the construction site to check the exact dimensions and structural conditions.
How long does it take to plan and implement a staircase?
The duration depends on the project. Planning and production can take from several weeks to a few months.
What structural requirements must be met?
Important factors are sufficient space, structural requirements and suitable storey heights.
Can existing stairs be replaced or renovated?
Yes, we offer the replacement of old stairs. You can discuss solutions for staircase renovation with us, but we do not offer them in every case.
Are there digital planning or visualization options?
All projects are planned using CAD systems so that customers can see visualizations of their future staircase.
Staircase types & products
What types of stairs do we offer?
The range includes stringer staircases, spiral staircases, folding staircases, self-supporting staircases and space-saving staircases.
What is a stringer staircase?
In a stringer staircase, the steps are fixed between two lateral supporting structures, the so-called stringers.
What is a spiral staircase or spiral staircase?
A spiral staircase is a circular staircase where the steps extend from a central column. Spiral staircases are curved staircases.
What is a cantilever staircase?
A self-supporting staircase has the appearance of floating, as the steps are usually anchored directly in the wall.
What is a folding staircase?
A folded staircase consists of steps and risers connected at right angles, creating a striking folded look.
Which space-saving staircases are available?
Space-saving staircases are compact staircase solutions with a steeper angle or special step shapes.
What solutions are there for attics (loft ladders)?
Scissor stairs, which are integrated into the ceiling to save space, are often used for attics. Folding or sliding stairs are also available.
What products are available for roof access or terraces?
Roof hatches and special access steps allow safe access to roof areas or terraces.
Which staircases are suitable for small rooms?
Spiral staircases or compact space-saving staircases are particularly suitable for small floor areas.
Are there stairs specifically for commercial buildings?
Yes, we also plan staircases for office buildings, public buildings or industrial applications.
You can find our complete range under:
Materials & Design
What materials are used for stairs?
Typical materials are wood, steel, glass and natural stone.
Can materials be combined?
Yes, many modern staircases combine wooden steps with steel structures or glass railings, for example.
What are the advantages of metal stairs?
Metal staircases are stable, durable and suitable for both modern interiors and exteriors.
What are the advantages of wooden stairs?
Wooden staircases look warm and natural and go well with classic or modern living spaces.
What design options are there for railings and handrails?
Railings can be made of glass, metal, wood or combinations. Different shapes and surfaces are also possible.
What are the trends in modern staircase design?
Minimalist designs, floating steps, glass railings and combinations of wood and steel are popular.
Which materials are particularly suitable for outdoor use?
Galvanized steel, aluminium or weather-resistant types of wood are often used for outdoor areas.
Safety & standards
What safety requirements apply to stairs in Switzerland?
Stairs must comply with certain building regulations, for example with regard to the distance between steps and railing heights. Railings must not be climbable.
What role do handrails play in safety?
Handrails provide support and increase safety when climbing stairs.
Which stairs are suitable for children or older people?
Stairs with a moderate gradient, non-slip steps and sturdy handrails are particularly suitable.
Are there non-slip or particularly stable steps?
Yes, special surfaces or coatings can increase slip resistance. Rubber anti-slip protection is often milled into wooden steps.
Which fire protection or building regulations must be taken into account?
Depending on the building, different regulations apply, for example regarding escape routes or fire protection materials.
Production & Quality
Where are the stairs produced?
A large part of production takes place at the company’s own production facility at the main site.
What technologies are used in staircase construction?
Modern machines, CNC technology and CAD planning support precise production.
How is the quality of the stairs ensured?
Quality is guaranteed by careful planning, high-quality materials and precise manufacturing.
Are stairs manufactured in Switzerland?
The staircases are produced in Switzerland, at the Oberbüren headquarters, and assembled throughout Switzerland.
Service, installation & maintenance
Do we also install the stairs?
Yes, as a rule, we take on the professional installation of storey stairs and terrace staircases. However, floor stairs are often ordered and installed by carpenters on site. Flat roof hatches are mainly installed by roofing companies.
Are there maintenance or repair services?
If required, maintenance or repair work can be carried out on existing staircases. Even maintenance contracts are possible.
How long does it take to install a staircase?
The installation itself usually takes one to several days, depending on the type of staircase.