The spindles and handrails will definitely grab anyones attention. Prime. For instance, steps leading up to a porch, deck, or other types of entryway may require a higher step height of around 8-9 inches for safety reasons, while steps leading up to a homes interior might only necessitate a height of 6-7 inches. What kind of paint do you use on stair railings? These can be folded up out of the way to save space when they are not being used. Allow it to dry completely before applying the next coat. Add in oak nosing for $10/linear foot (3ft per tread) and you have a complete stair. First, it will prolong the lifespan of the paint and prevent wear and tear from foot traffic. This part of the stair will have less wear and tear than the top of the step, so the wallpaper will last a long time with some strong glue. Use traditional latex paint on seldom-used furnishings. The best and most widely used paint for stairs is a Semi-Gloss paint. Others believe that painting risers is unnecessary and that they should be left unpainted. Sanding the stairs can also help to create a smoother finish. A premium quality, waterborne alkyd paint that offers a full line of durable high-end finishes ideal for doors, trim, and cabinetry. Although its not the most weather resistant product, the paint withstands adverse weather well and can embellish your outdoor stairs in the years to come. Unfortunately, this part of the house is often neglected and can lead to gloomy looking hallway and staircase. If you are going to use a paint stripper or varnish stripper, after its application, the paint will start to lift off and the best way to remove the paint is using a paint scraper. If the surrounding aesthetic or design will benefit from the contrast that white risers provide, it can be an excellent choice. The pros at these stores can help you and create a custom color of your chose. wikiHow is a wiki, similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. When you tape, use a paint scraper to go over the tape really well to make sure it is really firmly down and that nothing can get through. Can you paint stairs without sanding? Additionally, white risers can help to make the stairs stand out and draw the eye upwards. Price: Chalk Paint has a higher price tag than other types of paint, making it prohibitively expensive for some. It is not necessary to prime stairs before painting, but doing so can help ensure better coverage and adhesion of the paint. If you are using a different colour for the stairs and the banisters, paint each section separately and leave plenty of time for them to dry before moving on. We decided to change the treads, banisters and spindles to achieve modern design elements. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'remodelormove_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_17',168,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-narrow-sky-1-0');When painting wooden garage steps, youll want to use a paint that is durable and will stand up to wear and tear. Paint the top of the stair. With the wear and tear that your stairs will see, the quality and type of paint are extremely important. No matter which option you choose, make sure that the stairs meet the necessary building regulations, as well as your own needs. Additionally, two coats of paint are usually recommended for extra protection. Bold Focal Point. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what will look best in your home. The short answer is that you dont necessarily need to sand your stairs before painting them. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Bead board is a classic style that adds a professional touch if your basement stairs connect to a well-used section of your house. When painting, you will want to make sure the surface is free of dirt and grease, and has been sanded enough to remove any existing varnish, sealers or top coats. Itll soak up paint like a sponge so use masonry or concrete primer and paint. 7 Warning. Painting stairs is a project that requires some preparation and careful application. What paint do you use to paint outdoor steps? After the paint has been applied, you may want to consider adding a layer of clear coat varnish or sealer to protect the stairs and give them a lasting finish. A semi-gloss or high-gloss paint is a good option for painting stairs because it is easy to clean and will resist wear and tear. Alkyd enamel is a traditional oil-based paint with a glossy finish, while acrylic alkyd enamel is a hybrid that adds flexibility and adhesion to the finish. You should also spend some time looking at the range of materials on offer and considering the needs of the home, such as fire resistance and durability. There are a variety of colors available that can coordinate with the rest of your decor, such as beiges, tans, grays, and even bolder colors like reds and blues, if youre looking to make a statement with your stair risers. Best Paint - KILZ Over Armor Smooth Wood/Concrete Coating Our pick for the best paint for basement stairs is the KILZ Over Armor coating. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what looks best in their home. A staircases landing area is a great place to add a touch of personal style with a gallery wall, statement mirror, or lush potted plants. To ensure an even coat of paint, lightly sand the surface before painting. Using a paint brush, for each step, apply the thin coat of stain on the vertical surface first, then the horizontal surface in a quick manner. Slip Doctors Tuff Grip Paint This paint can transform your wood surfaces into a skid-free surface. Paint the remaining steps as in step 2. Not Water Resistant: Chalk Paint is not water resistant and therefore isnt suitable for surfaces that will come into contact with moisture. Most people opt for satin or semi-gloss finisheswhen it comes to the best paint for stairs, as both are durable and look good on hardwood floors. Allow your kids to paint the risers. A premium quality, quick-drying latex floor enamel with great color and gloss retention that can be used for interior or exterior surfaces. Semi-gloss colors dry in a more complex finish and can be easily cleaned. Remove all sanding dust by going over the surfaces again with fine-grit sandpaper. 1. The look is almost dramatic, so much so that the stairway itself becomes the focal point by just painting it. How to put paint on wood stair treads? - Paint - Primer - Tape measure - Painter's tape - Carpenter's square Photo: Painted Therapy STEP 1: Prime and tape I decided to go with a low-luster enamel paint. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); How do you paint spindles with chalk paint? Staining your staircase is the practical option if your stairs receive a good amount of foot traffic on a regular basis because you have active kids or pets that are walking around the house. Painted railings with a color that pops will make your staircase stand out. % of people told us that this article helped them. Be sure to paint in even strokes and to not overload the brush with paint. Select Your Estimate Type. Which type is up to the paint expert. Basement stair paint can be durable, requiring only occasionally touch ups. The difference between painting a steel staircase and a wooden staircase is that wood soaks in primer. After they have dried, carefully remove the painters tape and youre done! Consider any additional supports that may be needed. {{ ctrl.getWelcomeNote('Welcome, @@FirstName @@LastName')}}. These paints offer superior performance and durability, as they stand up well to temperature changes, moisture, and extreme weather conditions. Depending on the condition of the surface, you may need to consider primers, sealants, and additives. Learn more Updating your house can be as quick as adding a coat of paint to walls, stairs and doors. To finalise, here follows a list of tools and products needed for painting stairs: Selection of sand paper, 80, 120, 240 grit Good quality paint brush Mini roller (if needed) Paint scraper Paint stripper Good quality wood filler Sugar soap or degreasing agent Random orbit sander for larger areas Detail sander for hard to reach areas What kind of paint should I use on the stair? The key to painting stairs without sanding is to use a primer designed for glossy surfaces. 3. It is also the best option for resisting cracking and peeling. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. It is best to use a paintbrush for best results. Step 5: Prime and Paint Stair Risers. When painting the steps, make sure to clean them with a good cleaner and let the paint dry in good conditions, with no direct exposure to the elements. When the project is finished, you should apply a sealant or topcoat of polyurethane to increase the durability of the paint. Water-based paints are easy to clean up and are more eco-friendly than oil-based paints. For a more decorative option, you may want to use epoxy paint, which is designed to last for years. The next step is to remove all existing varnish or paint, if there is any, by using a paint stripper or by sanding. After staining and after your final coat of stain has completely dried, apply at least two coats of polyurethane varnish to protect the surface. Flexible Scheduling. Allow the first layer of chalk paint to dry, and then reapply a second layer as needed. Look for a paint that has a low-luster or semi-gloss sheen to reduce the potential for slipping on painted surfaces. But don't touch the top or bottom of the baluster with the roller brush. Building wooden steps for a garage requires careful planning and precision. Clean the metal and make sure it's dry. If you are painting the walls around your stairs, buy wall paint instead of using the porch and floor paint. We just wanted to paint enough to overlap the next color, which we taped off. Use strong braces and screws to provide extra support. It is important to make sure they are properly secured with reinforced stringers and that they are structurally sound. It's been over a year and I still had not decided WHAT to do about the stairs. Pretty Painted Stairs By Beth Unskinny Boppy Diy Show Off Decorating And Home Improvement Blog Staircase Design. Use another small foam brush to stipple . Get an Estimate. It is a good idea to talk to a painting contractor about the proper type of paint to use on stairs. Required fields are marked *. Sand down (for wood) to the level of the stair surface. You can get extra texture added as well. 4. Expert Project Management. The answer to this question depends on personal preference and the overall look you are trying to achieve. The most commonly used color for stairs is semi-gloss paint. 6 Tips. Steps should be painted with a durable, exterior paint that can withstand weather and wear. Use a primer before applying the paint and a brush with at least 4 inches of bristles. Additionally, the overall height of the stringer may vary according to the desired rise (which is the step height) that is desired. Painted stairs tend to have a shorter time period before they start showing scuff marks or damage as compared to stain. Conventional trim enamel is suitable for the rest of the staircase. For concrete, use an epoxy filler (exterior grade) or concrete repair filler. Step 3. Stains are generally more durable than paint, and lighter tread paints may begin showing scuffs and marks before stains or darker paints. Paint the top of the step. All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published. They should be at least 10 inches wide and graded for structural use. Start with the risers, end with the treads. 1. If you marked the unpainted stairs with crosses, remove the tape cross after the paint has dried, and put it on the dry painted ones. Another tip would be to use an off white such as CC40 Cloud White. Allow time for the stain to penetrate the wood based on the manufacturers instructions before the application of the next coat. This will help to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. Finish withRead More Allow for complete drying time. Before applying your paint, make sure to give it a good stir and apply with a brush or a foam roller. Enjoy! And neutral colors are always winners. Stairs. (202) 751-2026 DC (703) 768-8143 VA. . Sand the stairs. Make sure you clean the stairs well and use a porch or floor paint. This article has been viewed 124,221 times. Why do people paint stair risers white? Enjoy color and design inspiration, product innovation news, and event updates. You can use an electric sander or do it by hand with sandpaper. For outdoor stairs, use an exterior paint that is suitable for wooden surfaces. Whether or not to paint your stair risers white really depends on your personal preference and the look that you want to achieve. Select the proper stain and or paint for your staircase that will complement or blend well with the primary color scheme of the surrounding area of your hallway to achieve the ambiance or style that you would like for your entryway or foyer. Here we tell you all painted stairs ideas for your picking. Yes, you can paint stairs without sanding, but its not going to be an easy process. Use etch primer on your steel staircase. When choosing paint for wood furniture, your best option is to use a water-based paint specially designed for use on wood such as an acrylic latex paint. Advertisement How to Resurface Interior Metal Stair Railings Start With Protection. Others prefer the look of stained or natural wood risers because they feel it adds more character to the stairs. Yes, you can certainly chalk paint over wood. White is a popular color and works well in many homes, as it can brighten the overall look and feel of a space. We added a modern element to our staircase by using black iron spindles. Additionally, if your stairs are made of a material that is difficult to paint (such as wood), sanding may be necessary in order to create a surface that the paint can grip onto. These stairs appear to "float" because they are supported by a central beam or newel post rather than being attached to the wall. Additionally, depending on the material used for the steps, some colors may clash with a white riser, making the staircase look uneven or sloppy. Keep in mind, that you need to meticulously follow the manufacturers directions about on how to prepare and apply the polyurethane finish. 4. If possible, wait until moderate weather arrives so you can open basement and upstairs windows. You can use either an alkyd or an acrylic alkyd enamel paint. Do I need to sand stairs before painting? We also painted the trim all along the stairs and foyer. Once the spindles are clean, use 220-grit sandpaper to lightly sand and remove any remaining dirt, grime, or loose paint. Once you have sanded the risers, you can then apply the primer and paint of your choice. All FrogTape brand painter's tapes are treated with a unique PaintBlock Technology . Time-Consuming: This type of paint takes longer to dry, which can be frustrating if youre trying to finish your project in a timely manner. Make sure the wood pieces fit snugly together. Allow to dry 24-48 hours. Semi-gloss paints dry to a harder finish and have enough of a gloss they can be easily cleaned. Stencil a number onto the front of the stair, so that you can see all the numbers when you stand at the bottom. Some people prefer the look of white risers because of the light and bright contrast it provides against darker colored steps. Once you are done sanding, you will need to make sure that the treads, risers, banisters and spindles are all in good condition. Step 4: Add Finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying any further coats. Apply the stain in the direction of the wood grain by bushing it on. FIXALL Skid Grip Anti-Slip Paint, 100% Acrylic Skid - Ideal for . Approved. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'remodelormove_com-leader-3','ezslot_19',165,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-leader-3-0');Once the spindles are completely covered with two coats of chalk paint, allow the paint to completely dry for at least 24 hours. When it comes to the best paint for staircases, most professionals choose satin or semi-gloss paint finishes since they are both durable (because they have a harder finish) and look excellent on hardwood floors. Moreover, if you are looking to keep a more contemporary look, white risers can offer a clean, crisp look. Protect the risers as you paint the tops of the steps. "The type of paint to use and painting every other step makes sense.". Lately, darker colours even black are being used with some great results. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); How do you build wooden steps for a garage? Let dry the first layer of paint. Paint stairs - step by step 156,629 views Oct 2, 2014 Paint stairs with perfect results by looking at how our painter works step by step. Black, navy, or another dark color can be moody and dramatic. wikiHow is a wiki, similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. Paint the Concrete. Lastly, test the steps for stability before using it. Pros. Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve. Vacuum and wipe all dust off of the panels before priming. Stairways are bridges between different floors as well as paint colors. When painting stairs, make sure to wear protective gear, remove any existing paint and wear a breathing mask to prevent inhalation of paint fumes. However, there are a few things you can do to help keep them clean. There are types of acrylic paint specifically for use on porches, floors, and exterior stairs. 4 Combine an anti-skid additive to the paint for the final coat on the treads. 8 References (3) By doing this, the staircase becomes part of the entire space rather than making a bold statement. The combination of lighter shades works well with dark elements or vice versa as long as the overall design remains cohesive and consistent. This allowed us to achieve a classic and timeless beauty. Additionally, some stairs may require a wider stringer spacing for larger stair tread widths. This popular brand of paint is perfect for creating a unique and stylish look on staircases both on the risers and the treads. It is always best to consult with a professional painter or home improvement expert to get the best advice for your specific situation. 3. Step 4. Perfect for domestic use. The risers are painted with the same paint color as our the staircase and hallway walls while the treads and handrails are stained with a color as close as possible to our laminate flooring. Kilz Premium (not original) is my no-fail primer. It is also important to remove any wax build-up or dirt, as these can prevent the chalk paint from sticking. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Allow this to dry for 24 to 48 hours to ensure that they are completely dry before you begin the painting or staining project. Oil-based paints may take up to three days to set while latex-based paints are dry to the touch within two to four hours, but may need up to one day to fully dry. Painting your treads, risers and balusters all in one color evokes a modern, sleek look. Required fields are marked *. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure the best results. Use bead board on the riser. What paint should I use on wooden garage steps? If your stairs are made of concrete, you will need to use a paint stripper to remove the old paint. At the very least, you will need a paint tray, painters tape, a paintbrush and/or a roller, a drop cloth or tarp to protect the area, some form of cleaner or degreaser to clean the surface, sandpaper, and paint. Before painting, pour some chalk paint into a separate container and begin to work it into the brush in a circular motion, mixing the bristles of paint together. Porch and floor paint is formulated to stand up to foot traffic, and that's the type of paint you need for steps. Last Updated: June 2, 2021 This means when you buy a product we recommend, at no additional cost to you, we may receive a commission. Stairs and railings are considered to be as one of the high-traffic areas in your home. If not, replace the parts that need to be replaced or fixed. Paint the stair tops. Acrylic latex paints are an excellent choice for garage stairs, as they are resistant to fading, mildew, and moisture. This can be a fun way to personalize the risers and make them your own. Supporting stringers can also be used between existing stringers to improve the longevity and safety of the stair, especially when using heavy tread materials. However, if you are leaning toward a more natural option because you want to display the rustic beauty of the wood itself, a tung oil (penetrating type finish) is for you. Surfaces like wicker, masonry, concrete, plaster, glass, and metals. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'remodelormove_com-box-4','ezslot_1',156,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-remodelormove_com-box-4-0'); Whats more, it is self-priming and highly durable, making it an ideal choice for stairs. Your email address will not be published. If you use the epoxy, make sure to overfill a bit because it will shrink as it cures. Second, it will seal and protect the paint from dirt, grime, and moisture which can damage stairs. However, if you decide to use the sanding method to remove the paint from your stairs, just be reminded that it will create a lot of dust. It depends on the paint and the look you are going for. The standard step height is typically 7-8 inches. Apply the number of coates that is recommended by the paint manufacturer. What kind of paint do you use on stairs? Let the freshly painted steps dry for 24 hours before walking on them. The color of the stairwell will brighten up a white hallway. This makes it an ideal choice for beginners and those who dont have the time for more detailed projects. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Cut the wood pieces for the steps as per your measurements. Prime everything. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 124,221 times. If there are any holes or crevices, use a bit of flexible caulking or silicone to fill them in. Cover the floor the floor that is not to be painted with tape and large paper covering from a paper roll. Modern, subdued colors are a great choice to add a contemporary twist to traditional homes. Remove any carpet or covering and nails and staples using a nail puller or claw hammer from your wooden staircase. Then, using a paint scraper (plastic type), rag, or sponge, remove the old stain after 20 to 30 minutes. Keep in mind though that tung oil finishes need regular maintenance to keep their beauty. This is a great way to add some personality to your stairs. Hope this helps! You can also paint the risers in a fun color or pattern. You also need to take your time when doing this process to make sure that your tape lines are totally straight because any paint flows in this case will be visible. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to paint risers is up to the homeowner. Use a Metal Primer to Smooth It Out. @2022 Benjamin Moore & Co. 101 Paragon Drive, Montvale, NJ 07645, A stairway is a main focal point in your home, and together with your. For example, you could do a light colored floor with dark stairs, or vice versa. Chalk paint is a special type of paint that has a matt finish, so it is important that you provide a solid base by priming the surface beforehand. 4 Choose your stair colors. 1. Using two complementing colors for wooden stairs will create a fantastic look. Step 2: Strip the Stairs. Painted Stairs PROS: Inexpensive!!! Once youve applied the primer, you can then paint the stairs with any type of paint you like. What kind of paint do you use for basement stairs? Repeat the same step for the second coating of undercoat. Yes, chalk paint can stick to stained wood however the result and finish depends on the condition of the wood. Other types of paint can crack and peel on concrete. What stairs do you need for a loft conversion? Yes, it is possible to paint stairs and many people do this to update the look of their house. The oil-based paint is quite popular on stairs because it tends to be a bit more durable than latex. Is there any special paint for stair tread? Whether you decide to paint or stain your staircase, bear in mind that the right paint colors for your stairs can not only change the appearance of your stairs but the interior of your home as well. However, the exact height of a step can vary greatly depending on the area and the local building code, as well as the purpose of the step. Additionally, many types of paint can use on interior and exterior walls, floors, and ceilings. Step 1: Prepare the Area. 4. In this manner, how do you paint and stain stairs? Using this method will allow you to simply smooth out any drips. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Can stairs be a different color than floor? The best paint for stair risers is a durable paint that is preferably formulated for porches and floors. The answer to whether or not stairs look better with white risers is subjective and ultimately up to personal preference. If you need an extra layer of protection against the elements, use an exterior-grade clear sealant over the paint. I chose the Porch and Patio. We used to use Impervo but the higher gloos level will show scuffs and dirt more so we moved to the pearl finish. Durability: Chalk Paint is very durable and can stand up to wear and tear better than other types of paint. Use a good quality primer to prime the raw wood. Once the surfaces are smooth and clean, its time to paint. entryway tables or stair spindles) since it can be tinted to . If you plan to have an external entrance to the loft, then step ladders or loft ladders might be a better option. Another way to dress up stair risers is to add decals or stickers. On the other hand, some people may prefer to keep the same color throughout the stair case, rather than breaking it up with white risers. Easy Application: Chalk Paint is easy to apply with no need for sanding or priming before painting. Both fare hard-wearing and easy clean finishes that would stand the test of time in such an oft-used area. Oil-based paints are the most commonly used for the exterior of the stairs. It has a very hard-wearing finish, easy to clean and very resistant to stains. Yes, you can paint vinyl stair risers, but it is not a simple process. Exterior-grade paints are specifically designed to withstand harsh outdoor elements, such as exposure to rain and sun, as well as higher temperatures. Once you decide to stain and have already selected the right stain for your staircase, the next question that may come into your mind is what is the best wood finish that you can use? The playful use of two distinct colours on alternating stair risers adds an element of fun to this traditional foyer. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. After the undercoat has been placed and dried, apply the first layer of topcoat paint in a thin layer using a brush or roller it on in a thin layer. They usually contain good adhesion quality, ensuring that whatever you paint on the steps stays on. Using 60 to 80 grit sandpaper, sand the stair risers lightly, including the corners. To create this article, 11 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. Ultimately, it is up to the homeowner to decide what color they would like their handrail to be. Feather Gray 2127-60 and Pike's Peak Gray 2127-50 alternate on the risers, with trim and treads painted in Snow White OC-66. Once the paint is completely dry, you can add a clear coat to protect the paint job and make it last longer. With proper priming, a latex should work without the "chipping" that often happens with oil, especially when the previous coating has not been prepared to accept it. Wait for it to dry out. Your email address will not be published. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/Paint-Basement-Stairs-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Paint-Basement-Stairs-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ee\/Paint-Basement-Stairs-Step-1.jpg\/aid2601748-v4-728px-Paint-Basement-Stairs-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"