Stair rail or baluster repair
A pro tightens or rebuilds a loose stair rail, newel post, or broken balusters.
What this job involves
A loose rail is a fall risk, and it is usually the newel post at the bottom that has worked loose. The pro pulls it tight with a hidden bolt or a new bracket. Broken or missing balusters are cut and set to match the others. A whole rail can be replaced if it is too far gone. Old stairs are rarely square, so each baluster is cut to its own length.
What to have ready
- Photos of the rail, the bottom post, and any broken pieces
- The number of balusters to replace
- Whether the rail is painted or stained
- Which parts feel loose
What a fair price looks like
Most homeowners in our area pay between $200 and $700 for this job. Labor with balusters supplied by the homeowner if any are replaced. A full new rail is quoted on site. Homes built before 1978 may need lead safe practices.
This is a range to help you judge a quote, not a quote. The pro you are matched with gives you their own price, in writing for anything over $1,000, and you pay them directly. We charge the pro a small flat fee only after the job is done. We never ask you for payment.
What a good pro will ask you first
- Is it the post, the rail, or the balusters?
- How many balusters are broken?
- Wood or metal balusters?
- Is the rail stained or painted?