Installing a new staircase costs $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the staircase design and materials used. Straight staircases are the cheapest to install since their simple design has no curves or landings that increase the build time and costs. Winding or curved staircases, especially those with dramatic detailing, are more difficult and time-consuming to build, increasing labor costs.

Staircase materials also impact the cost of installation. Glass and metal cost more for materials, require more specialized tools and equipment, and should be installed by an experienced professional. In contrast, wooden staircase materials are cheaper, and most staircase installers and handymen have the tools to work with wood since it is a common material for indoor staircases.

To save money on your staircase installation:

• Choose a simple design like a straight staircase without a landing.
• Use less expensive materials like wood, instead of more costly wood or glass.
• Consider a remodel of your existing stairs instead of a full replacement.

Remodeling an existing staircase costs $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the condition of the stairs and the customizations you include in the remodel. A simple and inexpensive remodel may include replacing old carpet on the steps with laminate flooring or painting the railings, treads, and risers of an outdated wooden staircase in a more modern color scheme.

More costly remodels include replacing the entire railing system and treads with a mix of updated materials like glass, metal, and wood for a modern, high-end design, or adding custom tiles to the risers to accentuate the home's architecture. The most complex remodels include redesigning the style of the staircase or completely relocating it to another space to change the layout of the entire room.

Installing premade or custom stairs will transform your old staircase and most people choose between them based on their budget, timeline, and design preferences. Premade or stock stairs cost $1,000 to $2,000, on average, and are a great option for smaller budgets and timelines. Pre-fabricated are less expensive and can be installed more quickly. The prefabricated stairs come in standard sizes and are made from durable materials, such as wood or metal, but are available in limited styles.

Custom staircases are a better option for larger budgets and extended timelines since the custom stairs are more costly and time-consuming to install. A custom staircase costs $5,000 to $10,000 or more for a uniquely designed staircase that fits your design preferences. The design choices are unlimited, mixing different materials and finishes to get a look that suits your home's style. When opting for a custom staircase, it is best to work with your contractor or architect on design blueprints and project timelines to ensure a smooth project.

The time it takes to install a staircase can be from one day to several weeks, depending on the design and features. A premade staircase is typically installed in less than a day. A simple straight staircase is usually built in a day or two. Spiral or winder staircases usually take several days to install, with metal being a bit more difficult to work with than wood. Custom, made-to-order staircases can take several weeks to install, especially if ornate features are being added to the posts.

If your staircase looks outdated, it may be time for a remodel, However, if your staircase is structurally unsound, then you need to consider replacing the stairs. It is a good idea to inspect your stairs regularly for signs of damage or wear. Catching problems early can save you money and keep your family safe.

When inspecting your staircase, these are signs that indicate you need a new staircase:

• Creaking or damaged treads that no longer support your weight and could collapse.
• Loose or damaged treads that make it difficult to walk up and down the stairs safely.
• Structural problems such as missing balusters or handrails that make the stairs unstable.
• Noisy stairs that indicate your stairs are not properly aligned and are unsafe.

When getting quotes from staircase installers or general contractors, be sure to follow these suggestions:

• Schedule at least 3 estimates with similar staircase materials and designs to compare.
• Limit your search to licensed, bonded, and insured builders with a few years of experience.
• Look for a builder that specializes in installing your preferred stair material.
• Check out available reviews from past clients on HomeGuide and Google.
• Ask for everything in writing including a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty details.

Remodeling or replacing a staircase is an easy project and can change the look of your entire home. To find the best installer for your project, be sure to ask these important questions so that the result is exactly what you were hoping for:

• Are you experienced in installing or remodeling staircases?
• Is your company licensed, bonded, and insured?
• Which staircase design will fit in my space?
• What staircase materials will best suit my budget?
• How long will the installation or remodel take?
• Will I be unable to access my upstairs during the project?