Stair Articles by Category
Stair Restoration

3 Items to Consider When Replacing Balusters

Details to consider before replacing balusters: bottom of baluster, top of baluster, and code requirements. … [Full story]

6 Keys to Hiring a Stair Builder

Seek a Full Time Experienced Stair Builder. Experience can't be overrated. You don't want a handyman, even an excellent one, trying to build your stair. … [Full story]

Amazing Stairs: The Miraculous Staircase of Loretto Chapel

The Spiral Staircase at the Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe New Mexico is truly an Amazing Stair. The stair winds approximately 760 degrees total, more than two full turns, and is made of Spruce; it ascends … [Full story]

Amazing Stairs: The Nathanial Russell House

The Nathanial Russell House (1808) in historic Charleston, SC features two of the most noted curved staircases in the world. The two curved staircases are "freestanding" (no supporting walls beneath the stairs) … [Full story]

Choosing a Hardwood for your Staircase: Understanding Grain for your Design

There are two main design features to consider as you select a wood for your trim: color and grain. Color can be adjusted through stain, while grain gives the wood its style and character. … [Full story]

Choosing a Hardwood for your Staircase: Wood Color

There are several species of hardwoods that have very bold natural color, such as cherry, walnut, and mahogany. Historically these were the most desirable woods, due to their natural beauty and no need to stain … [Full story]

Hardwood Stairs in Cherry: Key Items to Consider

For hundreds of years cherry has a been a desirable wood species due to its beautiful natural color; its subtle grain lends itself to elegant applications. Cherry is an excellent wood for furniture, cabinets, and stairs. … [Full story]

Historic Restoration of a Curved Stair & Curved Stair Railing

Designed Stairs was called in to assess and restore a 1874 black walnut curved stair and curved stair rail. Abraham J. Hoffman built the stately River Forest Young Ladies Seminary in River Forest, IL. … [Full story]

Stair Remodeling: 3 Reminders to help it run smoothly

When remodeling your stairs you should know that it IS a full-fledged remodeling project, not a Saturday afternoon DIY project. Your stair has been installed into the structure of your home. … [Full story]

Stair Styles: What parts of my stair should I paint vs. stain?

We often get asked the question: "What parts of my stair should I paint and what should I stain?" When determining what to stain and what to paint, think about the overall feel you want in your space. … [Full story]

Transforming Your Home by Installing a Hardwood Stair

We get many calls where people no longer want carpet on their stairs and want to upgrade to a custom hardwood stair. What most people don't realize is that stairs are a structural item. … [Full story]