Ladder Spban independent magazine about staircases in the home

An independent magazine about staircases in the home. Not a manufacturer or a shop, and not connected with the former site on this domain; we neither make nor sell staircases. Design and installation of load-bearing stairs is for professionals only.

How-to

How-to guides

Not everything to do with stairs needs a professional. Anyone can learn to use a stepladder safely, and refreshing worn lacquer on wooden treads is well within reach of a careful person. But there is a line: anything involving the load-bearing parts of a staircase or the floor structure remains a job for professionals.

Most falls from a stepladder happen not because the job is hard but because of haste: "just for a second", "I can reach from here", "I won't bother moving it". An extra minute to move the ladder costs less.

— Editor's note

How this section works: we describe the general order of simple tasks, without figures or regulations. Drying time, number of coats and application conditions for a finish are given by the manufacturer, and a stepladder's load rating and rules of use by its label and instructions.

How to use a stepladder safely

  1. Inspect the stepladder before use

    Check that the steps are intact and don't wobble, the feet sit level and have rubber tips, and the spreader lock works. Don't use a damaged stepladder, even if the job will only take a minute.

  2. Set it on a firm footing

    All the feet of the stepladder should stand on a level, firm and dry floor. Don't prop the feet on books or boards, don't stand it on a rug that may slide, and never stand it on the steps of a staircase.

  3. Open it fully

    Open the stepladder all the way and make sure the lock has engaged. Don't lean a folded stepladder against a wall and use it as a ladder unless its instructions allow this.

  4. Climb facing the steps

    Keep a hand on the ladder and wear closed shoes with non-slip soles. Carry tools up in a tool belt or have someone pass them to you, so your hands stay free.

  5. Don't stand higher than allowed

    Don't stand on the top steps or the top platform if the label forbids it. Don't lean out to the side: if you can't reach, climb down and move the stepladder closer.

  6. Ask someone to help

    When working high up or with heavy items, have someone steady the stepladder and hand you tools. Don't leave it open where children play, and fold it away when you're done.

How to refresh the lacquer on wooden stair treads

  1. Pick your timing and warn the household

    While you work and the finish dries, the staircase can't be used, or only partly. Agree on another route with your family and keep pets off the stairs. It can help to do every other step, if the manufacturer allows this approach.

  2. Find out what finish is on the treads

    Lacquer, oil and wax are refreshed in different ways. If you don't know how the stairs are finished, test an inconspicuous spot or ask whoever made them. The new finish must be compatible with the old one according to the manufacturer's instructions.

  3. Clean the treads

    Vacuum the stairs and wipe the treads with a slightly damp cloth, removing traces of grease and wax. On a dirty surface the new coat will go on patchy and soon peel.

  4. Key the surface

    Lightly sand with fine-grit paper or an abrasive sponge to take off the gloss and fine scratches, working along the grain. Leave deep damage and blackened wood to a professional. Wear a respirator and safety glasses, and vacuum up the dust.

  5. Apply the lacquer

    Use a lacquer made for floors and stairs and apply a thin coat with a brush or roller along the grain, starting at the top step and working down so you don't cut yourself off. Ventilate the room and follow the conditions the manufacturer specifies.

  6. Let the finish cure

    Wait the time stated in the manufacturer's instructions before walking on it and before full use. If the finish turns out too slippery, consider clear anti-slip strips on the tread edges.

  • Tools

    What comes in handy for staircase care and small repairs, with no brands, plus protective gear.

  • Care

    Caring for lacquered and oiled wood, metal, stone, glass and carpet treads, plus a seasonal check.

  • Planning

    How to approach a staircase project, what Blondel's step formula is and which questions to ask your designer.

Sources

  • Manufacturers' technical documentation for finishing materials
  • EMERCOM of Russia — home safety leaflets

Information about staircases is given in general terms, based on works on architectural history, encyclopedic sources, manufacturers' technical documentation for finishing materials and EMERCOM of Russia safety leaflets. The specific requirements for the staircase in your home are set by building codes and your designer, and the care of a finish by the manufacturer's instructions.