How much do hardwood stairs cost?
How much do hardwood stairs cost?
$100 – $250 average cost per step
$1,800 – $6,300 average total cost
Cost to install hardwood stairs
The average cost to install hardwood stairs ranges from $100 to $250 per step for the materials and labor. A typical hardwood staircase with 12 to 16 stairs costs $1,800 to $6,300 installed. This total price includes materials, labor, old flooring removal, minor subfloor repairs, and wood finishing.
| Factor | Average installed cost (12 – 16 steps) |
|---|---|
| Materials | $600 – $2,400 |
| Labor | $600 – $1,600 |
| Old flooring removal | $100 – $400 |
| Repairs (as needed) | $200 – $600 |
| Finishing costs | $300 – $1,300 |
| Total project cost | $1,800 – $6,300 |
Hardwood stairs cost factors
Hardwood stairs are popular for their durability and ease of maintenance, improving both the appearance of your stairs and the value of your home. Several factors impact that total cost to put hardwood on stairs, including the materials used, local labor rates, and the number and design of the stairs.
Wood flooring prices
When installing hardwood stairs, the two primary choices are engineered hardwood and solid hardwood. Engineered hardwood is more budget-friendly but has a shorter lifespan due to the thin top layer's limited refinishing potential. Solid hardwood costs more but can be sanded and refinished many times, potentially lasting for generations.
The following table provides a comparison of the average cost per step for different wood types in both solid and engineered formats:
| Wood type | Solid hardwood cost per step* | Engineered hardwood cost per step* |
|---|---|---|
| Ash | $110 – $210 | $100 – $150 |
| Hickory | $130 – $220 | $110 – $160 |
| Maple | $140 – $240 | $120 – $170 |
| Oak | $120 – $180 | $100 – $150 |
| Pine | $100 – $180 | $80 – $140 |
*Includes materials and installation labor
Popular hardwood species include maple, oak, and hickory, which are durable and great for high-traffic areas, like staircases.
Softwood species like pine and ash are cheaper and easier to install, allowing for quicker project completion.
Labor cost to install hardwood stairs
The labor to install hardwood stairs makes up a significant portion of the overall expense. Professional installers charge $50 to $80 per hour on average. The number of stairs, staircase design, and the installer's expertise affect the time it takes to remove the old flooring, make repairs, and install the wood treads and risers.
Stair configuration
The design and number of stairs significantly impacts the overall cost to install a staircase. More steps and larger landings lead to higher costs for materials and labor. Also, curved or spiral staircases cost more than simple, straight staircases due to the increased labor required for their more complex design.
Keep in mind that custom staircase designs, intricate patterns, or unique features like glass treads or LED lighting can also increase costs.
Prep costs
Preparing the staircase for new hardwood installation involves removing existing flooring and making any necessary repairs, which can significantly impact the overall project cost.
Removing existing carpeting costs $100 to $400, with the highest costs for removing multiple flooring layers or adhesive residue. Removing old tile or hardwood flooring may have higher costs.
Staircase repairs cost $200 to $600, especially if there are issues like squeaky steps or water damage. Replacing a subfloor costs $2.20 to $4.75 per square foot.
Prefinished vs. unfinished wood
Prefinished hardwood is more costly than unfinished wood but comes ready to install, saving time and labor. Unfinished hardwood costs less but requires hardwood refinishing that costs $2 to $7 per square foot. While unfinished wood may seem cheaper initially, the overall cost will rise significantly once refinishing is added.
Handrails and balusters
Incorporating additional features such as handrails and balusters can enhance the look and function of your hardwood stairs, but they also add to the overall cost.
Stair railings cost $20 to $250 per linear foot, depending on the material and design complexity. For example, a wooden handrail costs $20 to $60 per linear foot, while a more dramatic metal or glass handrail may cost $50 to $250 per linear foot.
Balusters are another important feature, with costs ranging from $5 to $20+ each. The total expense will depend on the number of balusters needed and their design.
FAQs about hardwood stair installation
How do you install hardwood flooring on stairs?
A professional will first remove any existing materials, such as carpet or old wood. After clearing the stairs, the installer will measure and cut the new treads and risers, secure the risers, apply adhesive to the treads, and ensure everything is level before nailing them down.
Are hardwood stairs worth it?
Hardwood stairs are worth the investment, offering exceptional durability and lasting for decades with proper care. Their aesthetic appeal adds warmth and sophistication to your home and may increase property value. Hardwood also improves indoor air quality by not trapping dust or allergens, making it a healthier choice for your living space.
Are hardwood stairs slippery?
Yes, hardwood stairs can be slippery, especially when polished. To improve traction, consider using carpet runners, anti-slip treads, or applying an anti-slip finish. Regular cleaning also helps reduce slipperiness by removing dust and moisture that can create hazards.
Can you put engineered hardwood on stairs?
Engineered hardwood is suitable for stairs, as it's a stable and moisture-resistant material. Proper preparation, including removing old flooring and ensuring a level surface, is essential for achieving a durable result.
Getting estimates from hardwood stair installers
When getting estimates from stair companies near you, be sure to:
Ask at least three contractors for estimates to compare prices and services.
Request itemized quotes that show costs for labor, materials, and any extra fees.
Check online reviews on HomeGuide or Google and ask for references to see what past customers say about their work.
Explain exactly what you want, including the type of wood and design, so installers can give accurate estimates.
Inquire about warranties on materials and workmanship for added peace of mind.
Choose an installer with experience specifically in hardwood stairs to ensure quality work.
Questions to ask a hardwood stair installer
When hiring a hardwood stair installer, it's important to ask the right questions to ensure quality and reliability. Good questions to ask include:
Are you licensed and insured?
Can you provide references from previous clients?
What warranty do you offer on materials and workmanship?
How do you handle dust control during installation?
Do you have experience specifically with hardwood stairs?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.