Regal ideas QuickStep Complete Stair System

The QuickStep aluminum stair system delivers the one thing contractors care about most: half the installation time of traditional wood stringers. At 36-inch spacing between stringers versus 16-24 inches for wood, contractors need fewer stringers and spend less time on layout. The system cuts installation time by approximately 50% compared to wood stringers while delivering over 4,400 pounds per step at that 36-inch spacing.

For Montana contractors dealing with freeze-thaw cycles, moisture, and temperature swings from -30°F to 90°F, the high-strength, never-rust aluminum alloy construction matters. The aluminum and S-Glass fiber components resist rot, warp, and insect damage — problems that plague wood decks across the state. The system meets both U.S. and Canadian building-code specifications and International Residential Code (IRC) requirements.

Installation Speed Changes the Math

Traditional wood stair construction eats time. Stringers need precise cuts, frequent spacing, and constant checking. The QuickStep system arrives pre-engineered with 7.5-inch rise and 10.5-inch run dimensions that meet IRC requirements out of the box.

Easy undermount installation with hidden fasteners eliminates visible screws on the walking surface. The process breaks down simply: position stringers at 36-inch spacing or less, fasten the top to the structure with lag bolts for wood or masonry fasteners for concrete, attach treads by removing PVC caps and sliding in aluminum channels, secure treads using S114 fasteners with a bit extender from underneath, then install riser covers by tucking and securing with color-matching screws.

The connector kit allows stairs up to 14 steps without complex landing configurations. The kit includes connection-adapter brackets, cross-brace, and base plate — everything needed to link additional stringers for longer runs.

Installation Comparison	QuickStep	Traditional Wood
Stringer Spacing	36 inches maximum	16-24 inches
Installation Time	50% faster	Baseline
Complex Calculations	Pre-engineered system	Required
Maximum Run	14 steps with connector	Varies

Built for Montana’s Temperature Swings

The premium UV-powder-coat finish meets AMA-2603 standard — that’s the coating spec that matters when summer sun beats down at 3,000+ feet elevation. The high-strength S-Glass fiber composite treads bring serious capabilities: flame-proof, waterproof, and dimensionally stable. No expansion and contraction like wood. No twisting, no expanding, no shrinking. Flameproof and waterproof.

The treads feature anti-slip grooves and hidden aluminum track/channels inside for structural integrity. At 48 inches long by 11 inches deep by 1.5 inches high, they accommodate standard deck widths. Color options include Slate Gray and Natural Cedar for the treads, while stringers come in White, Black, and Yard Bronze.

System Components and Compatibility

The complete system breaks down into modular components:

Component	Specifications
Stair Stringers	High-strength aluminum alloy, 1 to 9 step increments
Stair Treads	S-Glass fiber, 48” × 11” × 1.5”
Load Capacity	Over 4,400 lbs per step at 36” spacing
Riser Covers	Aluminum, 7-3/8” × 3” × 48”
Connector Kit	Two 52.25” × 2.25” posts with brackets

The system works with multiple railing options: Regal ideas Aluminum Railing, CrystalRail, Urban Rail, and ADA Hand Stair Rail. Mounting surfaces include both wood deck frames and concrete pads/slabs.

Recommended fasteners include S114 #10 × 1.25” self-drilling screws for treads, WCS-50 #10 × 0.75” self-drilling screws for riser covers, and 3/8” × 2.5” lag screws for mounting stringers to structure. The optional integrated LED riser lighting adds visibility without compromising the clean installation.

Warranty coverage splits between residential and commercial use: 20-year limited structural warranty on aluminum stringers, 10-year on paint finish for residential (5-year commercial), and 1-year on S-Glass treads and LED components. Warranty is void if non-Regal ideas components are used.

The verdict? For contractors who value installation speed and customers who want decks that survive Montana winters, the QuickStep system delivers measurable advantages. The 50% time savings alone changes project economics. Add the 36-inch spacing capability and 20-year structural warranty — this system earns its premium over traditional wood framing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools do I need to install the QuickStep system? Basic installation requires: drill/driver, bit extender, pre-drill bits, rubber mallet, measuring tape, level, safety glasses, and pliers. No specialized stair-building tools needed.

How much weight can these stairs support? Each step supports over 4,400 pounds when stringers are spaced at the maximum 36 inches apart. This exceeds residential building code requirements by a significant margin.

Can I use these stairs with any decking material? Yes. The system mounts to wood deck frames or concrete slabs. The aluminum construction works with any decking surface — composite, PVC, or traditional wood.

Do I need to buy treads and risers separately? Yes. The stair stringer set includes one pair of aluminum stringers (left and right). Stonewood Stair Treads, Aluminum Riser Covers, Stair Stringer Connector Kit, fasteners, LED lights, and mounting plates are all sold separately.

What’s the actual time savings on a typical 5-step installation? The system cuts installation time by approximately 50% compared to wood stringers. A 5-step wood stair that takes 8 hours drops to about 4 hours with QuickStep.

Can these handle Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles? The S-Glass fiber treads won’t twist, expand, or shrink. They’re flameproof and waterproof. The never-rust aluminum alloy stringers eliminate corrosion concerns completely.