The most awkward woodwork in the house
Staircases combine almost every fiddly surface in one place: spindles, newel posts, handrails, treads, risers, stringers and often a tall stairwell wall above. Painting them well takes patience, the right order of work and enough drying time between coats.
It is also the most used part of the house, so the work is planned to keep the stairs passable between coats wherever possible.
Preparation on stairs
Old paint is sanded, dents and chips are filled, and gaps along stringers and skirting are caulked. Treads in particular need thorough preparation because they take the most wear. Any loose spindles or a wobbly handrail are better fixed before painting, which our banisters and spindles service can take care of first.
Stairwell walls often need attention at the same time, since scuffed walls undermine a freshly painted staircase. The height of a stairwell makes it awkward DIY territory, and it is usually simplest to include the walls in the same visit.
Finishes that cope with foot traffic
Risers, spindles and handrails are usually finished in a durable satin or gloss. Painted treads need a floor-suitable paint and realistic expectations, since no paint resists shoe wear forever; many homeowners paint the risers and keep the treads stained or carpeted for that reason.
Handrails benefit from a harder-wearing finish because they are gripped constantly, and a stain or varnish on the rail can be a practical alternative to paint where the timber is attractive.
- Spindles, handrails and newel posts
- Treads and risers in durable finishes
- Stringers and staircase skirting
- Stairwell walls and ceilings where needed
Choosing colours for the staircase
White spindles and risers with a darker handrail remain the most requested combination, because they brighten the hallway while keeping the most-touched rail forgiving. Painting the whole staircase in one colour gives a cleaner, more modern look, and a contrasting runner or carpet can sit alongside either approach.
Painting after a staircase update
If you are having the staircase updated at the same time, the carpentry and painting can be planned together. New treads, spindles and handrails from a staircase renovation can be primed and finished as one project, which saves the upheaval of two separate jobs.
Keeping the stairs usable
Work is sequenced so you can still get upstairs at the end of the day, with drying time planned around how your household uses the stairs. Dust sheets protect the hall flooring, and the staircase is left tidy at the end of each day rather than mid-mess.
To talk through your staircase, request a free quote or call 07735 852901.