How to Refresh Your Staircases and Railings

1. Assess the Condition of Your Staircase and Railings

Before you grab a brush or sandpaper, start with a thorough inspection.
Look for peeling paint, chipped stain, loose spindles, or dents in the wood. If your staircase has suffered heavy use over the years (especially in Edmonton’s colder months when boots and coats cause extra wear), these minor imperfections need to be addressed first.
Small repairs now will save you from bigger problems later—and ensure your refresh looks polished, not patched together.

2. Decide Between Staining, Painting, or Both

Refreshing staircases and railings gives you a unique design opportunity:

• Staining highlights the natural beauty of wood grain and feels timeless.

• Painting can modernize your staircase, create dramatic contrasts, or make smaller spaces feel larger with lighter colors.

Many Edmonton homeowners are now opting for a hybrid approach: stained treads paired with painted risers and railings. It’s a stylish balance between traditional warmth and contemporary simplicity.

3. Choose the Right Colors and Finishes

Choosing the right shades and sheens is critical.
For a classic look, deep wood stains like walnut or espresso on railings pair beautifully with crisp white balusters.
Want something bolder? Painting stair railings in matte black against neutral walls adds a sleek, modern edge.

In Edmonton’s bright yet variable natural light, softer satin finishes work well—glossy sheens can look too reflective, especially in open-concept homes.

4. Preparation Is Non-Negotiable

Even the best paint or stain won’t hide poor prep work.
Here’s what thorough preparation looks like:

• Lightly sand all surfaces to remove gloss and minor imperfections.

• Clean the stair and railing surfaces thoroughly to eliminate dust, oils, and residues.

• Fill any dents or holes with wood filler and sand smooth once dry.

• Tape off surrounding areas carefully to maintain crisp, clean lines.

Tip: Invest in painter’s tape and drop cloths—you’ll thank yourself later.

5. Prime (When Needed) and Apply with Care

If you’re painting over existing stain or a dark finish, priming is essential to prevent bleed-through and to ensure proper adhesion.
For railings especially, use high-quality bonding primers designed for high-touch surfaces.

When applying paint or stain:

• Use a small angled brush for railings and detailed areas.

• Apply thin, even coats rather than thick layers to prevent drips and uneven drying.

• Allow sufficient drying time between coats—especially important in Edmonton’s cooler seasons when humidity can sneak up.

6. Don’t Overlook Handrails and Balusters

Handrails endure constant contact and need extra durability. Choose paints or stains formulated for high-traffic, high-wear surfaces.
Consider updating balusters, too—swapping dated wooden spindles for sleek metal designs or painting them a striking contrast color can completely transform the staircase without major reconstruction.

7. Add Protective Topcoats for Durability

For Edmonton families with kids, pets, or heavy daily use, adding a clear protective topcoat is a must.
Polyurethane finishes (available in matte, satin, or gloss) safeguard against scratches, fingerprints, and daily wear while keeping your stair and railing surfaces looking fresh for years.

8. The Finishing Touch: Lighting and Décor

Once your staircase and railings are refreshed, don’t forget about the supporting elements.
Updating stairwell lighting, adding artwork along the walls, or installing a stylish runner can elevate the overall look and make your refreshed stairs a true centerpiece of your home.