The staircase is a central part of a house and is subjected to a lot of wear and tear every day. Over time, wear, scratches and discoloration can occur, which not only affect the appearance but also safety. Staircase renovation can be a cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire staircase. In this article, you will learn which methods are available, which materials are suitable and how you can renovate your staircase sustainably.
1. Why a staircase renovation makes sense
There are several reasons why a staircase renovation may be necessary:
✔ Visual improvement – Old and worn stairs can be made modern and attractive again through renovation.
✔ Increased safety – Slippery or damaged steps pose a risk of accidents. Safety can be increased by using anti-slip materials or new step coverings.
✔ Increased property value – A renovated staircase helps maintain or even increase the value of a house or apartment.
✔ Cost-effective alternative to replacing stairs – A renovation is usually cheaper and quicker than building a completely new staircase.
2. Methods of Stair Renovation
There are several ways to renovate a staircase. The choice depends on the type of staircase, the material and the desired end result.
2.1 Renewing or covering stair treads
Worn steps can either be sanded down and refinished or covered with new coverings. Popular materials are:
Wood – classic, warm and durable
Laminate or vinyl – easy to maintain and inexpensive
Natural stone or tiles – elegant and particularly durable
Metal or glass – modern and minimalist
2.2 Stair varnishing or glaze
Wooden stairs can be refreshed by sanding and repainting or varnishing . There are various varnishes to choose from:
Transparent varnish – emphasizes the natural wood grain
Colored varnish – enables a complete optical change
Anti-slip varnish – increases safety on the stairs
2.3 Stair runners or carpet steps
A carpet runner or carpet step pads are a quick way to visually enhance the stairs and increase walking comfort. They also reduce impact noise and provide a non-slip surface.
2.4 Replace railings and handrails
Not only the steps, but also the stair railing can be renewed. A new railing made of wood, stainless steel or glass can change the entire look of the stairs and ensure greater safety.
3. Materials for a long-lasting staircase renovation
The choice of material is crucial for the longevity and ease of maintenance of the renovated staircase.
Wood: Natural, warm and visually appealing, but more maintenance-intensive
Laminate/vinyl: Robust, scratch-resistant and easy to clean
Stone/tiles: Particularly durable, but harder and colder
Carpet: Soft and non-slip, but more difficult to clean
4. Costs of a staircase renovation
The costs for a staircase renovation vary depending on the material, method and amount of work. Here are some rough guidelines:
Homemade renovation (e.g. sanding, varnishing, carpet runners): approx. €100–500
Covering stair treads with laminate or vinyl: approx. €50–150 per tread
Renewing high-quality wooden or stone treads: approx. €100–300 per tread
Replacing railings: approx. €500–2,000 depending on material and design
5. DIY or hire a specialist company?
If you are handy, you can do a lot of the work yourself, such as sanding and painting or applying laminate. For more complex work, such as replacing steps or railings, a specialist company is recommended.
Advantages of self-performance:
✔ More cost-effective
✔ Individual design options
✔ Flexible implementation
Advantages of a specialist company:
✔ Professional and durable design
✔ Professional installation and safety
✔ Guarantee on the work carried out
6. Conclusion: Stair renovation is worth it!
A staircase renovation offers many advantages: It improves the appearance, increases safety and increases the value of the property. With the right materials and methods, an old staircase can shine in new splendor – whether by sanding, painting, sticking or replacing the steps. If you are looking for a high-quality and long-lasting solution, you should get good information in advance and, if necessary, hire a specialist company.
