Stair & Railing Cost Guides
Remodeling a staircase costs anywhere from $1,000 to $30,000. Most projects cost around $1,900 on average. Smaller projects like replacing banisters or treads run cheaper than big jobs like replacing or installing a staircase. Installing a railing costs from $700 to $10,000. Hardwood stairs cost $100 to $200 per step to install, on average. Keep in mind that a local stair and railing contractor can give you the most accurate quote for your project.
Cost factors include the design and the materials used in the project. Large or unique remodels (curved, spiral, L- or U-shapes) will cost more to makeover than simple shapes. Metal banisters are more expensive to install than wooden options. Find out more about stair and railing remodeling and installation costs in this guide.
Cost to Replace Stairs & Railings
On average, you’ll pay from $1,000 to $10,000 to replace stairs and railings. The price varies based on the project, materials used and the design of the project.
Banisters or Railings
The cost to install a stair railing is $900 on average, but can reach as high as $10,000. Wooden handrails cost less than pricey metal options. Installing wrought iron railings costs $2,600 on average.
Balusters or Spindles
Replacing balusters or spindles costs from $1,200 to $1,600 on average. Individual balusters typically run from $3 to $17 before installation.
Stair Treads or Risers
Replacing treads or risers typically costs from $1,800 to $2,500. Hardwood stair treads range from $35 to $50 per stair before installation. Thick treads with high-quality wood can cost as much as $160.
Average Cost to Build a Staircase
On average, you’ll pay around $1,900 to build a new staircase or railings. However, this number varies depending on the size, shape, design and materials of the project.
Interior Hardwood Stairs
Interior hardwood stairs cost $4,000 on average. Several cost factors can affect the price, including:
Type of lumber
Number of steps
Design
Pro installation rates
This project's cost will also be higher if you need to remove old stairs and dispose of the materials before beginning a new job.
Spiral Staircases
Installing a spiral staircase costs $10,400 on average. The price varies depending on the height and width of the staircase, as well as the materials used in construction. Talk to a staircase remodeling pro to get a quote for your project.
Deck Stairs
Building deck stairs costs $15 to $25 per square foot on average. The price to install deck railings in addition to steps is about $95 per linear foot. Expect the price for this project to vary based on the size and shape of the deck, as well as the materials used. A local deck contractor can give you an accurate quote specific to your project.
Concrete or Stone Front Porch Steps
Installing or replacing concrete steps costs from $900 to $5,000. The price of this project varies depending on the size of your job and the number of steps you require. Most concrete staircase jobs cost $70 to $150 per step.
The price of stone slab step installation is typically higher, and runs from $1,000 to $12,000. Granite steps run at the costliest end of the spectrum, while Bluestone slab is more reasonably priced.
A professional can give you a quote for your project and help you install stone steps.
Attic Stairs or Ladder
Adding an attic ladder or stairs costs from $220 to $650 on average. Pull-down ladders can run higher at up to $1,300. The height of the ladder plays a role in cost, as well as the material the ladder is made of.
Labor costs generally range from $240 to $425. They may increase if:
Pros must remove existing stairs
Wires need to be moved
Air ducts or piping need adjustments
Attic stairs will cost more to install than an attic ladder.
New Stair & Railing Installation Cost Factors
Installing new interior stairs runs from $1,000 to $30,000. A finished, main staircase will cost more than unfinished basement steps. Remodeling can cost less than building from scratch. Find remodeler costs by talking to a local stair and railing pro. Building costs can include:
Materials
Labor
Equipment
Building permits
Structural engineer or architect rates
If you choose to include a stair lift, this will add an additional $2,000 to $8,000 to the price.
Staircase Repair or Refinishing Costs
Repairing or refinishing a staircase costs from $310 to $1,050 on average. Fixing broken stairs typically costs $4.50 to $8 per square foot. Broken railings or handrails are pricier, at $30 to $45 per linear foot. You may want to call a local stair contractor if you notice:
Squeaking steps
Scuffs, dings or scratches
Detached banisters or railings
Loose treads
Cracked, chipped or warped areas
Repairing vs. Replacing Stairs or Banisters
Repairing stairs or banisters typically costs less than replacing them. If your steps have become entirely unsafe, wobbly or rotted, you’ll likely need to completely replace at least part of the stairs. A remodeling expert will know the best course of action to take in your home.
FAQ
Are stairs expensive?
Installing or replacing a staircase can be an expensive project, depending on the materials you use. Brazilian mahogany, iron and glass are a few pricier options that will definitely bump up the price of the job.
How long does it take to build a staircase?
The time it takes to build a staircase depends on the contractor, the design of the project and the materials used. For one contractor, the construction stage of this project could take around a week to complete. Talk with your staircase installation pro to get accurate timelines for this project.
How much does it cost to convert a half wall into a railing?
You’ll pay around $1 to $5 per square foot to demolish a half wall, plus $900 on average to install a new railing.
Can you update a stair railing without replacing it?
Yes, you can update a stair railing without replacing it by refinishing the railing. You can refinish the handrail and banisters using fresh paint or stain. Or, consider having a pro build around the existing structure.
