How Much Does It Cost to Refinish Stairs or Railings in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Refinishing your stairs or railings can enhance the safety and beauty of your home. On average, homeowners spend $787, or between $321 and $1,254. That’s an average range of $4.50 to $8 per square foot, depending on factors like location, size, and material quality. Whether it's worn treads or outdated railings, hiring a professional ensures the job is done safely and with precision.

Railing and Stair Refinishing Cost Factors

Several factors can influence how much you'll pay to repair or refinish your stairs and railings. 

Complexity of Design

Intricate designs may require more time and expertise, increasing the cost. The same applies if your stairs have an unconventional shape or are difficult to access.

Material Choice

Materials like wood, metal, or glass vary in price. Opting for high-end materials will raise your expenses. Your stair refinishing pro can help you choose materials that work within your budget.

Labor

Professional rates can vary based on experience, location, and who you hire. Carpenters charge an average range of $50 to $200 per hour. You can expect to pay labor costs of 20% to 30% of the project’s total.

Stair Size and Surface Area

Larger staircases or those with more steps will cost more to repair or refinish. The average cost for materials and installation is $4 to $8 per square foot. A 10-step staircase refinishing project costs approximately $700 to $1,100.

Stair Slope

Steeper stairs may cost less due to fewer steps, but may require additional safety considerations. Safe stairs typically have a 30 to 35-degree angle. Your stairs may need repairs to bring them up to an appropriate safety level.

Location Within Your Home

Stairs in common areas usually cost more because homeowners often choose to professionally finish them with carpet, paint, or wood stain. Basement and attic stairs are generally the most affordable to refinish since they’re not as prominently seen as a main entry staircase, so you can choose less expensive materials and finishing options. However, stairs in common areas are more visible and often benefit from quality finishing.

DIY vs. Hiring a Stair Refinishing Pro

While refinishing your stairs yourself may seem cost-effective, it often requires significant time and effort. A professional stair installer can complete the job efficiently, ensuring a high-quality finish. For example, a certified expert can refinish a 10-tread staircase in about two hours, while a DIY project might take up to a week to account for careful sanding, drying, and sealing. Hiring a pro ensures every step is completed with precision for a lasting, quality finish.

To ensure your staircase repair or refinishing project is completed safely and effectively, hire a pro who has the experience and tools to deliver high-quality results, saving you time and effort.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed thousands of real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.