How to Remodel Stairs

Look at ideas in home design books and magazines for updating the staircase. Consider ways to enclose the backs of open-tread stairs or how to install new railings, for example. Look at ways to change wooden balusters to metal balusters for a more contemporary look, as another choice.

Select an appropriate material to update stringer sections, which are the side sections to which treads are attached. Cover metal stringers with wood components that match crown molding or chair railing in a room, for example. Use high-quality wood over stringers to avoid devaluing the look of the staircase. Or choose metal covering for outdated wooden stringers to give the room a high-tech look.

Review possible changes for stair risers. Install plywood to cover the risers before covering the stairs with all new carpet, as one choice. Or select high-quality cherry veneer sheeting or porcelain tiles to install over the plywood in the riser sections.

Choose the best option for tread materials. For instance, combine high-quality wooden stringers with metal treads and metal balusters for a contemporary look. Buy premade treads you can trim to fit, unless you are an expert craftsman. Design a staircase hand railing system that blends with the treads.

Remodel the wall area beside the staircase as well. One option is to glue mirror tiles over the entire wall to visually enlarge the area. Or install chair railing to complement the rest of the room or hang wall paper in a contemporary pattern.