Expert: Joseph G. Swallow - 4/18/2010

Question
We have a curved wooden (painted white) staircase built in the late 1980's.  It is wobbly and the balusters are placed somewhat far apart posing a risk to children.  Can we have these two issues repaired or would the stair rail,etc need to be replaced?  About how much does this cost?

Answer
The most inexpensive route would be to have the newels re-secured with the floor connection and the handrails, and replace only the balusters.  Biggest problem would be the design of bringing balusters up to code (4" sphere cannot pass through).  As a result, I've seen a lot of remodeled stairs where they try and keep their existing newel posts and replace the handrail and balusters.  Right now is a great time to shop around for deals.  Since the construction industry is slow, many are getting rid of inventories at manufacturer's costs which includes balusters, both wood and iron.  Your biggest cost would be the labor, unless you plan on doing this yourself.

First I would look into strengthening the existing stairs and see if additional balusters can be installed without making it look cluttered (too close together).  If the handrail is plowed with square top balusters, this can probably be an easy task.  Pin top balusters usually post a problem.

Let me know if I can be of further help and thank you!

Joseph