How to Fix Loose Staircase Railings

Tighten the bracket screws using a screwdriver. Turn each screw clockwise to secure the bracket to the wall, starting at the top of the stairway and working your way to the lowermost bracket.

Replace stripped screws with new ones. Turn the stripped screw counterclockwise to loosen and remove it from the bracket. Replace the damaged screw with a matching one, tightened with a screwdriver to prevent damage to its head.

Inspect each bracket along the stairway for damage. Look for broken or bent brackets and those with missing screws. Remove the bracket screws by turning them counterclockwise. Grasp the bracket and gently pull it from under the railing.

Position the replacement bracket against the wall, using the previous bracket’s screw holes as a guide. Drive screws through the screw holes in the bracket and through the wall. If extensive wall damage prevents you from installing the bracket over the original spot, locate a wall stud near the previous stud using a stud finder.

Set the bracket over the stud and mark the locations for screw holes over the wall and underside the railing. Drill a 1/8-inch pilot hole into the stud in the wall. Also drill 1/16-inch holes into the underside of the rail, 1/4-inch deep.

Position the bracket in place and secure it using screws. However, for concrete or brick walls, use concrete anchors.

Remove the base trim or molding from the bottom of a loose newel with a pry bar. Newels hold the railing on the side of staircase without a wall. Remove nails from the trim with pliers. Set these aside to reuse. Locate the mounting brackets, typically on either side of the newel. Tighten the screws that run into the floor and the side of the newel post so they anchor it securely. Remove stripped screws from the brackets and replace with slightly longer screws. Replace the molding around the base and replace the nails to secure it to the tread.