WOOD SPECIES
The Foundation of Every Staircase We Build
Every staircase begins with a single decision: the wood. It sets the tone for everything that follows, from the grain pattern running beneath your handrail to the way the light catches your treads at the end of the day. At Empire Stairworks, we carry an extensive selection of in-stock and custom species because we know that the right wood isn't just an aesthetic choice; it's a structural one.
STOCKED WOOD SPECIES
These are our most frequently specified species, held in inventory and ready to fabricate. Each has been selected for its performance, workability, and ability to accept a wide range of stains and finishes.
RED OAK
RO
Warm reddish tones, pronounced open grain. The most widely specified domestic stair species for good reason. Versatile, durable, and stains beautifully across a broad range of finishes.
WHITE OAK
WO
Cooler, more neutral than Red Oak with a tighter, more refined grain. The go-to species for contemporary and transitional interiors where subtlety and sophistication matter.
SOUTHERN YELLOW PINE
SYP
Dense, resinous, and exceptionally strong. The knotty character of #2 grade suits rustic and farmhouse designs; C+ BTR delivers a cleaner face for painted or formal applications.
HARD MAPLE
HM
Pale, creamy, and exceptionally hard. Fine uniform grain with outstanding wear resistance. The right choice for high-traffic staircases built to outlast everything around them.
SPECIAL ORDER WOOD SPECIES
Don't see what you're looking for? Beyond our stocked selection, we regularly source custom and exotic species to match existing woodwork, meet architect specifications, or bring a unique design vision to life. View our full species reference guide below or contact us to discuss your project. Lead times may vary based on species and configuration. Contact us to confirm availability for your project.