Stair Refinishing and Staining
Restore the natural beauty of your hardwood staircase or transform it with a new colour.

About This Service
If your hardwood staircase has good structural integrity but shows surface wear, scratches, or an outdated stain colour, professional refinishing is the most cost-effective path to a renewed appearance. Our refinishing process strips away old finish, repairs minor surface damage, and applies fresh stain and protective coats that make your staircase look and feel like new.
Our refinishing process starts with careful sanding using professional drum and edge sanders equipped with dust containment systems. We work through progressively finer grits to create a perfectly smooth surface free of old finish, scratches, and minor dents. This preparation step is critical for achieving an even stain absorption and a flawless final coat.
Stain selection is where your staircase transformation takes shape. We offer a wide range of stain colours from natural and golden tones to rich espressos and contemporary greys. We always apply stain samples on your actual staircase wood so you can see exactly how the colour will look before we commit to the full application. Wood species absorb stain differently, and in-situ sampling eliminates any surprises.
The protective topcoat is the final and most important layer. We use commercial-grade polyurethane finishes in your choice of sheen level, from satin to semi-gloss. These finishes are formulated for high-traffic surfaces and provide excellent resistance to scratches, moisture, and daily wear. For homeowners who prefer a more natural feel, we also offer hardwax oil finishes that penetrate the wood without building a plastic-like film on the surface.
In addition to treads and risers, we refinish handrails, newel posts, and any other visible wood staircase components to ensure a uniform appearance throughout.
Key Benefits
- Most affordable stair renovation option for existing hardwood
- Preserves the original wood and character of your staircase
- Change the colour of your staircase to match updated decor
- Eliminates scratches, wear patterns, and surface damage
- Professional finishes last 7 to 10 years under normal use
- Typically completed in 2 to 3 days
No obligation. Response within 24 hours.
Stair Refinishing Cost in Ontario
Refinishing is typically the most affordable stair renovation option since it preserves the existing wood. Here are typical price ranges for a standard 13-step staircase in Ontario.
Prices are approximate ranges for a standard 13-step staircase in Ontario (2026). Your actual quote may vary based on staircase configuration, materials selected, and project complexity. We provide free detailed quotes with no hidden fees.
Our Stair Refinishing Process
Preparation
Surrounding areas are masked and protected. Carpet or other coverings are removed if present.
Sanding
Professional sanding with dust containment, progressing through multiple grits for a smooth, clean surface.
Staining
Stain colour is confirmed with on-site samples, then applied evenly across all surfaces for consistent colour.
Coating
Multiple coats of professional-grade polyurethane or oil finish are applied with light sanding between coats.
Inspection
Final inspection and walkthrough to ensure every detail meets our standards and your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most solid hardwood staircases can be refinished multiple times. If treads are severely worn, warped, or have deep damage beyond what sanding can address, we may recommend refacing or replacement of individual components.
With standard polyurethane finish, stairs can be walked on in socks within 24 hours of the final coat. Full cure takes approximately 7 days, during which we recommend avoiding heavy items and shoes on the stairs.
Yes. We carry an extensive range of stain colours and can custom-mix to achieve a close match to your existing hardwood flooring. We always test on a small area first to confirm the colour.
Related Services
Stair Renovation
Complete staircase renovation including structural updates, new treads, risers, railings, and custom finishing. We transform outdated stairs into stunning focal points.
Learn moreStair Refacing
Stair capping and overlay that transforms your existing staircase without a full tear-out. New hardwood treads installed directly over old stairs.
Learn moreHardwood Stairs
Convert carpeted stairs to beautiful hardwood. Remove old carpet and install solid or engineered hardwood treads for a clean, modern look.
Learn moreWe provide stair refinishing services across Ontario, including Toronto, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Barrie, Newmarket, Oshawa, and Burlington. View all 20+ service areas.
Ready to Transform Your Staircase?
Get a free, no-obligation quote for your stair renovation project. Our team is ready to help you create the staircase of your dreams.