In most houses, staircases serve an important function and typically experience heavy foot traffic. Although most staircases are constructed to last a lifetime, frequent usage may result in wear and tear over time.
While a certain degree of abrasion is common and relatively harmless, some issues may damage the integrity of your stairs and compromise their usage. It could put your family at risk every time they use the staircase.
Thankfully, there are some signs that indicate that there’s something amiss in your staircase and needs immediate repair.
The Tread or Risers Have Cracks
The parts on which you step on are called treads, and the parts that are perpendicular to the treads are called risers.
A crack in either one of them is a clear sign that your staircase needs to be repaired. The most common reason for cracks in the treads or risers is the changing levels of humidity.
Once you spot a crack in the treads or risers, you need to take prompt action and address the issue immediately to avoid putting your family or visitors in a threatening situation.
The Handrail on the Staircase is Loose or Detached
The handrail is designed to offer support and keep the people using the staircase safe from any mishaps. However, the wobbly handrail fails to fulfill its projected purpose.
Apart from being a safety concern, a loose or detached handrail may even be a code violation. So, it’s better to address the concern as ignoring it would do no good.
This issue also adversely impacts the integrity of your staircase, but you can easily fix it by replacing the loose or detached handrail.
A Creaky Staircase
In addition to being a safety concern, a creaky staircase can be very annoying. The creaking sound is a constant source of the disturbance.
Although creaky stairs are a very common issue, it doesn’t mean you should ignore them. Generally, a creaky stair is caused by a gap in the risers and treads of the staircase.
A small gap can be fixed with some glue in no time.
Water Damage
Water damage is an unwelcomed guest that may creep into your staircase, especially in the basement or outside.
You may notice the warping or softening of wood along your staircase. This is a clear sign that the water has damaged the integrity of your staircase.
In this case, replacement is the only option.
Looking for Expert Home Renovation Services in Rhinelander, Wisconsin?
Modern Interiors LLC is the best option for staircase repair or replacement for your home in Rhineland, Wisconsin. Our team of HUD-certified general residential home contractors offers services for window replacement, door replacement, bathroom remodels, kitchen remodels, installation of new sidings, and paneling of decks, garage painting, basement finishes, and additions of staircases. Get your staircases fixed on a budget!