Your stair railing is not only one of the most important features in your home, but it is often at the center of your decor. Whether it lines your staircase or your porch, it is a place that draws attention when people are visiting. Some people have a stained wood rail and white spindles, while others paint the railing alone. You can choose the best option based on what will fit in best with your decor. Take a look at some of the following ways to paint your railing.
Make Sure You Clean and Prep
If you decide to paint your railing, you need to make sure to clean and prep it. Your railing is a high traffic area, and it needs to be durable. Once you clean the railing, you should sand it to make sure that the paint or stain will bond properly. You do not need to remove all of the stain that is there; you can sand away the glossy finish and make sure that the surface is even and smooth.
When you sand, you can use an orbital sander on flat surfaces. Make sure that you always sand with the grain rather than against it. Once you finish, wipe down the railing so that it is clean and free of any debris.
Painting the Railing
Many people today are choosing to paint their railings. When you go in this direction, you will use a special primer followed by two coats of paint. You can choose any color that works with your decor, and some people leave the spindles white, while others paint them to match.
If your home is older with a more traditional decor, you might consider painting the balusters white and staining the railing. You might choose a stain that is a little darker than the stain on your floors and stairs, and it will tie in well with your home.
However, if you have a more modern home, you can paint the railings in a color that makes them stand out. You might choose a glossy black or navy, and choose whether you paint the spindles to match or contrast them with a complementary color.
Tips for Painting Railings
There are things you should consider when you are planning to paint your railing. Whether you plan to do the job yourself or hire a professional painter, you should consider the look you are trying to achieve.
First of all, assess the condition of your railing. If you want to hide any imperfections, you might consider using a darker color stain. They will conceal the flaws so that your railing looks great. You should also keep in mind that stains and darker paints will hold up longer than light-colored paints.
Final Words
If you want to update your railings, you can consider staining or painting them. As long as you take the time to make sure that the railing is properly prepped, it will last a long time. You can give your home a new look.
Marc Poulos began his real estate and financial services career, but he soon realized that his true passion was beautifying homes. He started working with various small craftsman shops before serving an apprenticeship with the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Chicago. His commitment to excellence won him Top Apprentice from Washburne trade school in Chicago – the country’s premier school of its kind.
