Stair How To & DIY
Improve the value of your home by discovering our stair step-by-step tips & ideas.
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How to Repair Flagstone Steps
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough helps a homeowner repair the flagstone steps in their entryway.
How To Repair Sandstone Steps
Watch as This Old House mason Mark McCullough helps a homeowner repair a crumbling sandstone veneer on the front steps.
How To Space Balusters: Multiple Methods for Even Placement
General contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O’Connor a quick, simple trick for spacing balusters evenly, and it doesn’t even require math.
How To Repair a Dog-Chewed Newel Post
Watch as This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains how to bring a gnawed newel post back to its original splendor.
How to Keep Your Stairs Up to Code
Stairs that are poorly designed or too dimly lit pose a safety hazard, while stairs that are uniform in their dimensions and built according to code are comfortable and safe to ascend and descend. Luckily for all concerned, modern building codes for stairs are very straightforward, and the principles for exterior and interior stairs are identical. Read on to learn more about how to keep your stairs up to code.
What To Know About Cutting Stair Stringers
Stair stringers can help ensure your staircase is safe and secure. In this guide, we walk you through each step of how to DIY your own stair stringers.
How to Remove Carpet From Stairs
Removing carpet from stairs can be done over the weekend, without hiring a pro. Here's the best method for carpet removal on your staircase.
How To Refinish Worn Out Stair Treads
In this article and instructional video, This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert demonstrates how to refinish stair treads.
How to Update Stair Treads and Risers
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva teaches a homeowner how to replace split-level stair treads in his mid-century modern home.
How To Connect Stair Railing Parts
Most staircase railings come from stock pieces that you can easily connect yourself. Here's everything you need to know.
How To Fix a Loose Stair Rail End Cap
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva fixes an end cap on a stair railing that keeps coming loose.
How To Identify and Address Dangerous Staircases in a Home
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva analyzes a potentially dangerous staircase that is not to code for prospective homebuyers.
How To Build a Chippendale Railing
Kevin O’Connor and Jeff Sweenor demonstrate how to assemble and install a Chippendale railing for the Rhode Island Beach House
How To Paint Ombre Stair Risers
Painting ombre stair risers can add life and color into your stairwell. In this guide, we show you step-by-step instructions on how to do it.
Everything You Need to Know to Build Porch Stairs
This step-by-step guide will show you how to build a safe and solid set of porch steps that are more accessible for someone with mobility issues.
How to Replace a Pull-Down Attic Staircase
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva removes an old attic staircase and replaces it with a new one.
How to Replace a Stair Railing
Need to replace or install a new staircase balustrade? In our guide and video, we share tricks for installing a new, sturdy stair railing.
How To Build Granite Porch Stairs
This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shows how to create durable, beautiful stone steps out of granite slabs.
How to Repair a Wobbly Newel Post
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to stabilize an unsteady staircase post
How to Install a Stair Runner
Use a stock runner (or two) to add a splash of color and cushiony comfort to bare wood stairs.
How To Repair a Broken Wooden Stair Tread
A cracked or broken stair tread can lead to someone tripping and falling. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva reveals his quick fix for cracked wooden steps.
How to Repair a Loose Newel Post in a Few Simple Steps
Is your staircase post wobbling? Bolster a newel post with these simple tips, using tools you probably already have in your home.
How To Add Shapely Stair Brackets: A DIY Guide
Turn a bland stringer into an elegant eye-catcher with shapely, decorative stair brackets—a low-cost DIY upgrade.
Installing Attic Stairs
In this video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to make attic stairs safe and sturdy
How to Install Pull-Down Attic Stairs
Installing a staircase to your attic is a challenging but achievable task. In this guide, we walk you through each step of the process.
How to Repair a Damaged Baluster in 7 Simple Steps
A busted baluster can lead to unsafe situations, especially if you have young children. Luckily, it's a relatively simple DIY fix.
How to Install Attic Stairs
Step-by-step instructions to help you install folding attic stairs for easier access to your attic.
How To Add Headroom to a Stairway
Watch This Old House's Tom Silva show you how to change the dimensions of a staircase to keep you from bumping your head.
How To Install a Stair Handrail: A Step by Step Guide
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows us how to install a professional-looking handrail that meets building code requirements.
6 Grand Staircase Design Ideas
Looking for a staircase that makes a statement? Our guide showcases six grand staircase design ideas that will elevate your home’s style and functionality
How to Fix Concrete Steps
Concrete steps are typically durable, but they can sometimes chip or breakaway near the corners. Read these steps to learn how to bring new life to damaged corners of your concrete steps.
How To Fix a Loose Newel Post
The key to a steadier handrail is at the bottom of the stairs. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to stabilize an unsteady newel post.