Stair Refinishing Guide

Stair Refinishing Guide

Professional stair refinishing covers carpet removal, tread sanding, riser prep, stain, and 2–3 coats of Bona Traffic HD. Every staircase is quoted after a free in-home estimate.

What Stair Refinishing Involves

Refinishing hardwood stairs is more detailed than refinishing a flat floor. Each tread must be sanded individually, risers prepared separately, and stain and finish applied with careful edge control to avoid runs. A typical staircase takes a full day or more depending on the number of steps and the condition of the wood.

Carpet Removal and Prep

If your stairs are currently carpeted, the first step is removing the carpet, padding, staples, and tack strips. This often reveals hidden damage — water stains, pet damage, or soft spots — that must be repaired before sanding. We inspect every tread and riser before starting so there are no surprises mid-project.

Sanding and Staining

Stair treads are sanded with specialized equipment designed for the narrow, angled surface of a step. Once bare and smooth, we apply your chosen stain. Because stair edges are visible from many angles, we apply stain carefully and consistently so each tread matches. We always test a sample on a hidden area first so you can approve the color before the full application.

Finishing with Bona Traffic HD

For stairs, we recommend 2 to 3 coats of Bona Traffic HD — a commercial-grade water-based finish that resists the heavy wear stairs receive. It dries clear, stays non-yellowing, and has low odor, so you can use the staircase again sooner. Bona Traffic HD is the same finish we use on high-traffic commercial floors.

Cost Factors

Stair refinishing cost depends on the number of steps, the condition of each tread, stain complexity, and whether risers are painted or finished. Stairs that need repairs, replacement treads, or careful work around intricate spindles take more time. We give you a written estimate after inspecting your staircase.

Stair treads use the same sanding technique as floors — review the hardwood floor sanding process first.

Related guides: For overall project cost factors, see our hardwood flooring cost guide. Stairs also use different materials than flat floors — our LVP vs hardwood comparison covers those options.

For more information about hardwood flooring standards and best practices, visit the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA).

Using These Flooring Resources

Our resource guides cover topics including hardwood floor installation, refinishing, repair, maintenance, cost considerations, and material comparisons. Each guide is written to help homeowners understand the process, make informed decisions, and prepare for a flooring project. Use these resources to research your options before scheduling a consultation.

Topics We Cover

Resource topics include choosing between hardwood and luxury vinyl plank, understanding the cost to refinish hardwood floors, learning how long refinishing takes, comparing oil-based and water-based polyurethane finishes, and caring for hardwood floors after refinishing. We also provide guides on stair refinishing, water damage repair, wood species selection, and finish options.

Browse our collection of guides and articles, and contact Ramos Wood Floors with any questions about your flooring project.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hardwood Flooring

How long do hardwood floors last?

With proper care and maintenance, solid hardwood floors can last 50 to 100 years. Periodic refinishing every 7 to 15 years helps protect the surface and extend the floor’s lifespan.

What is the best wood species for high-traffic areas?

Harder wood species like hickory, maple, and oak are more resistant to dents and scratches, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. The Janka hardness rating indicates a wood’s durability.

Can hardwood be installed in kitchens?

Yes, hardwood is commonly installed in kitchens. Engineered hardwood offers better moisture resistance, while solid hardwood provides the ability to refinish. Prompt cleanup of spills helps prevent water damage.