What this covers
A staircase remodel can be a refinish of the parts you see or a rebuild of the stair itself. The visible version replaces treads, risers, skirt boards, railings and newels and matches the treads to the floors. The structural version changes the layout, opens a closed stair, or replaces damaged stringers, with engineering and permits. Either way the result has to meet code for rise, run, headroom and railings.
When to call
- A carpeted or dated stair in an otherwise updated home.
- A stair damaged in a loss or with worn, squeaky treads.
- A closed stair you want opened to the room.
What to expect
- AssessThe stair's structure, code compliance and what can be reused are checked.
- DesignTreads, risers, railing and any layout change are decided, with engineering if structure changes.
- BuildOld parts come out; new treads, risers, skirts, newels, rail and balusters go in.
- FinishStained or painted, then every step and rail tested.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Can an existing stair be opened up?
Often, by removing a wall and adding a railing, but the wall may be load-bearing and the stringer may need support. An assessment answers it.
Will the new treads match my floors?
Treads are made in the same species and finished to match. The company shows samples beside the floor.
How long is the stair out of use?
The company plans the work so you can use the stair each evening, with care, unless the structure is being rebuilt.
Related: Stair railing installation · Stair tread installation · Hardwood floor installation · All carpentry and trim
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.