Staircase Makeover
8 videos • 38,619 views • by Home Improvement Woodworking This staircase makeover series shows how to transform an outdated builder-grade staircase to a traditional looking staircase with wainscoting and closed stringers (sides). The staircase makeover includes videos on wainscoting, newel post remodel, painting, staining, handrails, and stair spindles. The staircase remodel started with removing the spindles (aka balusters) and closing in the staircase stringers. We wanted a traditional looking staircase, and this was an important design detail. On top of the closed stringers, we attached a shoerail, with is where the new spindles attach into a groove (called a dado). The last part of closing in the staircase stringers was to install wainscoting on the outside to disguise the mess. We didn't replace the newel posts as they were still solid. Instead, we did a newel post makeover. By wrapping the existing newel posts in new wood, we were able to give them a more substantial look and dress them up with some trim. There was a lot of painting to do in this remodel, including a lot of spindles. Scott used a Fuji Spray HVLP sprayer to paint all the parts. As a new spray finisher, there were a few lessons learned along the way but the results were worth it! All of the work in the staircase makeover was completed by Scott, with the exception of the handrail installation. That was a challenge, so we hired Doug Watson from Country Lane Woodshop to show us how professionals install handrails. Doug shows the wrong way and the right way to install the handrails. The last part was the installation of the balusters (aka spindles). Scott invented a unique measuring tool to help figure out not only the right length of the balusters but also to centre the baluster when cut so the spindle profile was exactly the same on every baluster. We hope you enjoy us sharing our staircase makeover project. It was a lot of work, but it was worth the effort. We put together a 4-minute video to summarize the project at the end. Please like and share these videos as viewership helps fund our video production work. Scott Bennett - host of Home Improvement Woodworking