Masonry Heaters... and Staircases!

Step 1: Preparation and Planning

Drilling the External (Combustion) Air Inlet:

The first step was to drill an opening in the external wall to let in combustion air. This ensures efficient combustion and reduces unwanted emissions. The air is channelled through an "aluflex duct"

Insulating the External Wall:

To avoid any unwanted heat dissipation, the external wall was carefully insulated. This keeps the heat generated by the masonry heater inside the space. We use calcium silicate boards that withstand 1000°c are inert and can be worked like wood, screwed and glued in place, so with no metal framework. these insulating boards are available in different formats and thicknesses. They are also available in a special version to combat damp.

Step 2: Energy Absorption

Additional External Insulation:

Extra insulation was added to the outside of the wall to absorb the thermal energy given off by the masonry heater. This reduces heat transfer to the outside environment.

Creating an Air Gap:

Between the external insulation and the wall, an air gap was deliberately left. This air gap acts as a thermal barrier, helping to prevent overheating and preserve the integrity of the structure.

Step 3: Heat Storage Circuit

Positioning the Heat Storage Circuit:

The heat storage circuit, crucial for storing and redistributing heat, was strategically placed near the external wall, while maintaining effective insulation to optimise its efficiency.

Insulating and Ventilating the Circuit:

Special insulation was applied around the heat storage circuit to minimise unwanted heat loss. Adequate ventilation was also put in place to prevent overheating.

Step 4: Heat Release

Insulating the Internal Wall:

The internal wall, adjacent to the staircase, was also insulated to prevent heat loss to the adjoining spaces.

Air Circulation:

An air circulation system was arranged to encourage heat release from inside the heat storage circuit while distributing the heat into the surrounding space.

Step 5: Conversion into a Staircase and Final Adaptation

Conversion into a Staircase:

A request to convert the masonry heater into a staircase was an unexpected but stimulating turn in the project. This step required a complete review of the design, taking into account the aesthetics and safety of a staircase.

Structural Readjustments:

Adjustments were made to the existing components to turn them into elegant steps and stable balustrades. In-depth structural calculations were carried out to guarantee the strength and safety of the staircase.

Step 6: Harmonisation and Integration

Integration into the Space:

The staircase was skilfully integrated into its surroundings, taking into account circulation, aesthetics and functionality. Harmonisation with the existing architecture was a key element of this step.

Finishes and Details:

The final finishes were applied with craftsman's precision. Every detail, from the texture of the wood to the metal handrails, was carefully considered to create a coherent, attractive whole.

Conclusion

Building the "Masonry Heater Double Quarter-Turn Winder Staircase" was a fascinating journey, combining creative engineering with hands-on construction. Every stage, from initial preparation to the conversion into a staircase and final integration, was undertaken with an unwavering concern for detail and quality.

This project demonstrated our ability to respond innovatively to unforeseen challenges and to turn a vision into an impressive reality. The end result is far more than a simple staircase; it is a functional work of art that bears witness to our dedication to excellence and our passion for bespoke architecture.

The "Masonry Heater Double Quarter-Turn Winder Staircase" embodies our commitment to creativity, ingenuity and collaboration with our clients to deliver unique and remarkable projects. It is an achievement that merges aesthetics with functionality, creating a centrepiece that will enrich the space it occupies for many years to come.