Building new stairs and railings, or updating existing ones can be a very important home improvement tasks. Stairs and railings are not only part of the aesthetic and decorative aspects of your home, but they pose a safety concern as well. Stair railings are for more than just decoration; they provide stability for those traveling up and down the stairs. After years of use, many wood stairwells begin to come loose. The railing may feel wobbly or just seem slightly loose when force is placed on it. Additionally, you may find that you have that one squeaky wooden stair that announces to the world that you are walking on it. These are not things that you have to live with.
One cost factor to consider which will always affect the cost of a stair and railing installation and repair is the complexity of the layout of the stairs. A simple straight staircase that brings you from the first floor to the second floor, hung flush against a wall is a much simpler staircase job than a spiral staircase that sweeps around the center of a room and will more than likely be less of a cost to install and fix. Continue Reading
When wood stair railings are initially installed they are sturdy even though they may have some give to them - this is OK. After prolonged use the wood stair railings can become less sturdy and unsafe just through basic wear and tear and strain on the wood. This, too, is normal and OK - but does need to be addressed. The majority of wood stair railings are installed using wood glue and wood screws. The glue has natural flexibility to it but screws will simply dig into the wood, splinter it and then eventually loosen.
Railing cost will be affected by intricacy of the design of the railings and baluster, number of posts, type of material, type of mount, curve, etc. Regardless, if you hire a professional carpenter to fix or install your stair railings, you can be sure that you and your family are safe.
Squeaking stairs
With all the parts that it takes to build a staircase, it's pretty much inevitable that stairs will eventually start to squeak. In addition to simply being walked on, seasonal contractions and expansions further contribute to the loosening of the joints. It can all add up to a heck of a racket. Stairs that were constructed with glue in addition to nails and screws - less common the older your house is - generally are less prone to squeaking, but wear and time do tend to take their toll. Keep in mind that the noise doesn't mean your stairs are necessarily about to fall down, they just need tightening up. Your professional will be able to identify exactly where the noise is coming from and fix the areas and get rid of the squeak. This is normally a quick fix and a minimal cost - but the benefit is HUGE!
Broken railings
Fixing a broken railing is a bit more straightforward than fixing a broken stair. There can be a problem if your railing is particularly ornate and can't be easily replaced. If the railing is cracked, your professional may be able to repair the wood in such a way that it isn't noticeable, although it may not be as strong as it once was. If your railing is outside, you may need to replace it completely and consider replacing your other railings to match, if necessary. Outside railings need special treatment to protect them from the weather.
Broken stairs
Stairs are made up of several parts - every step in a staircase has two parts: the "tread" which is the horizontal board that you walk on and the "riser" which is the vertical board linking each pair of treads. They are joined with grooved joints or simple butt joints. Both parts are nailed to the stringers or, with the housed stringer, held tightly in the stringer grooves by wedges driven from the underside of the staircase. If you have a broken stair, it may not just be the part that you step on - it could be any piece that is a part of the staircase. Your professional will be able to take a look and provide an accurate estimate of what it will take to safely fix your broken stair.
Need fireproof steps with side railing, outside going up to upper level.
Beatrice Bourque
More than 1 year ago
Needing exterior metal railings installed on front cement steps. wondering what company and cost. Thank you
More than 1 year ago
Hi Beatrice, We would be happy to help connect you with a pro. You can match with pros here: www.homeadvisor.com, browse local pros and their reviews here: http://www.homeadvisor.com/c.html, or send your contact info to [email protected] and a project advisor will reach out to assist you. -HASupport
Mrs. George L. von Pragenau
More than 1 year ago
Can't, -- no one has contacted me yet for installing a small railing to my front steps yet
Alice Bradshaw
More than 1 year ago
House built in 1989, need a stairway updated, railing is low, spindles are too far apart, where a child can fall through, I need professional advice to make improvements, not to completely replace. thank you
Amy Ravenscraft
More than 1 year ago
I need a railing replaced outdoors. I have a walk out basement and the railing on one side broke off. the old rail was placed in the concrete on the patio. Anyone do this sort of work?
Derald Grauberger
More than 1 year ago
Do you do work at Mt. Charleston?
Nancy Dyer
More than 1 year ago
Is replacing broken spindles included in "stair repair"?
Robert Henry Bruder
More than 1 year ago
Yes, broken balusters (spindles) would fall under "stair repair". Most stair contractors (my self included) will have a minimum charge for repairs, so if you are going to have a qualified stair contractor do the replacement make sure to take a good look at the complete staircase to fine any other issues to have repaired as well (loose joints in the railing, loose balusters, loose newel post). This will help maximize the value for your minimum charge.
Charles Taylor
More than 1 year ago
Have a concrete landing with wood which has dry rot and termite damage. Want to replace damaged wood. concrete is on second floor and able to get to all damaged wood. Has supporting 4x4s and they seem to be in good shape.
Stephen Hennegan
More than 1 year ago
Hi Charles, Unfortunately I repair and install metal railings only. You need to talk to a qualified carpenter. Good Luck, Steve
