If you’ve had stairs for a long time, chances are that the stairs and handrails need to be refurbished. Refurbishing stairs can be either an easy task or very difficult depending on the stairs you have to work with. If your stairs are metal stairs, they should be treated in much the same way as any other metal railing, by using rust-inhibiting paint. However, if your stairs are wooden stairs, you’ll need to use different methods than if they were metal because wood may warp when painted. If you find your stairs and railings quite outdated and hard to repair, you can check your local store to buy new ones, which might be an easier option. 

Step 1 – Inspecting Your Stairs

If your stairs are made of wood or vinyl then it’s best not to leave them outside during the winter months that could cause warping in the material over time. If you must leave your stairs outside during the harsh winter, cover them with a waterproof tarp or cover. You want to inspect the stairs thoroughly to determine how much work will need to go into refurbishing them.

Step 2 – Removing What Is Left of Your Old Paint

If you’re lucky, there may be only some mild flaking of paint on your stairs and railings. If this is the case, all you’ll need are sandpaper or steel wool in order to remove any excess paint particles that are leftover. If there is heavy peeling of the paint (of either wood or metal stairs), you’ll need mineral spirits, hammer and chisel, scrapers, wire brushes, sandpaper (steel wool if applicable) and a putty knife.

Step 3 – Removing the Underlying Paint and Rust

Using your tools, remove as much of the underlying paint and rust from stairs and railings. Wipe everything down with a dry rag to get rid of any dust or loose particles. Before you start painting stairs, make sure the wood is completely dry, but don’t let it sit in sunlight because the ultra-violet rays will cause splotches on it. If you’ve had metal stairs out all winter, be sure to wipe them down with a wet cloth to remove any surface dirt that could affect the integrity of the paint later on.

Step 4 – Painting Metal Stairs (if applicable)

If your metal stairs are weathered and rusty, sand them down with sandpaper or steel wool and wipe them off again to remove any loose dust. After the stairs are clean, you can paint your stairs (preferably in another garage because it will contain the paint particles). The best type of paint for metal stairs is rust-inhibiting paint, especially if they’ll be used frequently or outside often.

Step 5 – Painting Wooden Stairs (if applicable)

If your stairs and railings were made of wood (or vinyl), then once they’re clean and dry, you can start painting them. You should use high-quality exterior paint designed for decks. These types of paints resist mildew, water spots and overall wear and tear to years of protection from the elements. You’ll need to hire a professional painter or paint your stairs yourself if you want them to look good.

Step 6 – Installing New Handrails (if applicable)

The stairs should be neat and clean before installing the new handrail. It’s usually best to leave this job to a professional because it requires knowledge of electrical, carpentry and plumbing work. However, if you’re brave enough and know what you’re doing, there are numerous online tutorials available that can help you install a new handrail for stairs.

Step 7 – Using Stain (if applicable)

If you’ve had painted stairs outside all year without covering them up during winter months, chances are they’ll have weathered and will need some type of stain put on them to protect them from the elements. Any type of wood stain works for stairs, but make sure you get the one recommended by the stairs manufacturer if they are made of a certain type of wood. You can use exterior paint over stairs that are stained, but it won’t last as long because its protective coating is compromised.

Owning and maintaining your home might be happy and tiring at the same time. We hope the above steps will help you refurbish your stairs easily. Or you can always find a local contractor to help you!

FOR MORE POSTS LIKE THIS SEE OUR LIFESTYLE ARCHIVE.