The signs your staircase needs an upgrade

Stairs are one of the most used areas of any home. While they are tough things and will last a really long time, even the toughest things need a bit of updating every now and again to keep them safe, secure, and looking in tip-top condition. 

We take you through some of the more serious signs that you might need to be aware of.

Cracking 

Visible cracks in steps is one of the biggest signs that your stairs might need replacing or at least a bit of tender loving care. Cracks usually appear as a result of changes in temperature but could also present if you have pets who could be damaging your staircase with their claws. Try to prevent them from doing so with coverings or sanding any rough areas regularly to smooth out any issues before they become more serious. 

Cracks grow over time and big cracks can lead to stairs becoming unsafe, so it is important to take care of them and protect them with the right finishes. 

Creaking and squeaking

The older the staircase, the more likely it is that it will start to creak when people travel up and down it. Cracks and gaps in the steps cause the creaks and squeaks and can be solved with a bit of glue or filler. It usually isn’t anything major to worry about, but these issues are best dealt with as early as possible to prevent further damage, which can lead to larger gaps and cracks. 

Check out our handy guide to handrails, spindles, and newel posts are all interlinked and vital to your safety, so if any one of these feels wobbly or moves when the stairs are in use or is touched, it’s time to fix or replace them before an accident occurs. 

Glue or new fittings might be enough to make it secure, but it’s often a better to replace the fixtures with something new. 

Warping and bowing

If your steps don’t look straight, it could be that they’ve warped, bowed and bent over time. This is possibly due to water damage which can be extremely serious and can lead to rotting and weak stairs, meaning they are unsafe and dangerous to use. If you see these signs, or they feel slightly damp and items like a screwdriver can be gently pressed into them, it is unfortunately time to replace them.

Updating your staircase doesn’t have to be expensive. Take a look at our blog on updating your staircase on a budget.