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