What a staircase renovation covers
Renovation is about transforming how the staircase looks and feels while keeping the existing structure. Typical work includes cladding or replacing treads and risers, updating the balustrade with new spindles and handrail, and refinishing everything in paint or stain.
It suits stairs that are structurally sound but dated, worn or mismatched with the rest of the house, and it avoids the disruption of a full staircase replacement.
Treads, risers and cladding
Worn or damaged treads can be replaced, or the existing stairs can be clad with new tread and riser covers for a fresh surface. Timber cladding over old stairs is a popular way to get the look of a new staircase without major structural work, and it can be combined with new nosings for a crisp edge.
Open risers can be closed in where a more solid, traditional feel is wanted, and the stringers along each side can be refaced or capped to match the new treads, so the whole flight reads as one piece of work.
Updating the balustrade
Changing the spindles and handrail makes one of the biggest visual differences. A dated balustrade can be swapped for a simpler, more modern run of spindles, or a traditional profile to suit a period hallway. Newel posts and caps can be updated at the same time. For smaller balustrade jobs, see banisters and spindles.
The balustrade on the landing is usually included so the new work carries through upstairs rather than stopping abruptly at the top step.
- New treads and risers, or cladding over the existing stairs
- Replacement spindles, handrails and newel posts
- Painted, stained or mixed finishes
- Making good walls and stringers afterwards
Renovation versus repairs
If the stairs creak, feel springy or have loose treads, those faults should be fixed first, and our staircase repairs page covers that work. Renovation builds on a sound staircase; it is not a way to hide structural problems.
Planning the look
Most renovations mix painted and natural timber: white risers and spindles with a stained handrail and treads is a popular combination, while an all-painted staircase suits a hallway that needs brightening. Samples and finishes are talked through at the visit so the result suits the rest of the house rather than fighting it.
The hallway around the stairs often benefits from attention at the same time, since new treads and a fresh balustrade can make tired walls and woodwork look worse by comparison.
What affects the cost
The size of the staircase, whether treads are replaced or clad, the style of balustrade chosen and the finish all shape the price, as does any making good to walls afterwards. A home visit gives you a firm quote based on your actual stairs. To start, request a free quote or call 07735 852901.