Stair Videos

These This Old House videos showcase all of our stair projects, how-tos, and designs.

S21 E24, Tom Silva replicates an antique staircase spindle
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How to Replicate Antique Staircase Balusters

Watch as general contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner by hand-carving a new rope baluster for their ornate Queen Anne home’s staircase.
S21 E24, Tom Silva replaces a baluster spindle
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How to Replace Staircase Balusters

General contractor Tom Silva helps a homeowner by installing a hand-carved baluster for their ornate Queen Anne home’s staircase.
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How To Space Balusters: Multiple Methods for Even Placement

General contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O’Connor a quick, simple trick for spacing balusters evenly, and it doesn’t even require math.
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How To Repair a Dog-Chewed Newel Post

Watch as This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains how to bring a gnawed newel post back to its original splendor.
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How to Paint Outdoor Railings

Painter Mauro Henrique paints an outdoor railing that Nathan just built to match the original railing around a homeowner’s deck.
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How To Build a Deck Railing

Building a deck railing is no small task. This guide shows how you can construct and install one in a few hours.
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How To Refinish Worn Out Stair Treads

In this article and instructional video, This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert demonstrates how to refinish stair treads.
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How to Update Stair Treads and Risers

Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva teaches a homeowner how to replace split-level stair treads in his mid-century modern home.
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How To Connect Stair Railing Parts

Most staircase railings come from stock pieces that you can easily connect yourself. Here's everything you need to know.
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How To Fix a Loose Stair Rail End Cap

Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva fixes an end cap on a stair railing that keeps coming loose.
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How To Identify and Address Dangerous Staircases in a Home

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva analyzes a potentially dangerous staircase that is not to code for prospective homebuyers.
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How To Build a Chippendale Railing

Kevin O’Connor and Jeff Sweenor demonstrate how to assemble and install a Chippendale railing for the Rhode Island Beach House
Two men installing wooden stairs up to a porch.
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Everything You Need to Know to Build Porch Stairs

This step-by-step guide will show you how to build a safe and solid set of porch steps that are more accessible for someone with mobility issues.
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How to Replace a Pull-Down Attic Staircase

Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva removes an old attic staircase and replaces it with a new one.
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How to Replace a Stair Railing

Need to replace or install a new staircase balustrade? In our guide and video, we share tricks for installing a new, sturdy stair railing.
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How To Build Granite Porch Stairs

This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shows how to create durable, beautiful stone steps out of granite slabs.
Tom Silva fixes a wobbly newel post
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How to Repair a Wobbly Newel Post

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to stabilize an unsteady staircase post
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How to Install a Stair Runner

Use a stock runner (or two) to add a splash of color and cushiony comfort to bare wood stairs.
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How To Repair a Broken Wooden Stair Tread

A cracked or broken stair tread can lead to someone tripping and falling. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva reveals his quick fix for cracked wooden steps.
Tom Silva using a drill to work on fixing a loose newel post.
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How to Repair a Loose Newel Post in a Few Simple Steps

Is your staircase post wobbling? Bolster a newel post with these simple tips, using tools you probably already have in your home.
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Installing Attic Stairs

In this video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to make attic stairs safe and sturdy
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How to Repair a Damaged Baluster in 7 Simple Steps

A busted baluster can lead to unsafe situations, especially if you have young children. Luckily, it's a relatively simple DIY fix.
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How to Install Attic Stairs

Step-by-step instructions to help you install folding attic stairs for easier access to your attic.
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How To Add Headroom to a Stairway

Watch This Old House's Tom Silva show you how to change the dimensions of a staircase to keep you from bumping your head.
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How To Install a Stair Handrail: A Step by Step Guide

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows us how to install a professional-looking handrail that meets building code requirements.