Every interior stair is priced after we see it. Rise count, how the sides are built, the wood, what is under the carpet, whether the rail is in the same job, and how closely the finish has to match the adjoining floor all change the written estimate. We measure on site and give a free written estimate before any tread is cut. Call (256) 665-2161.
Number of steps
More rises means more treads, risers, and finish. A short ranch flight off the living room is a different measure than a two-story foyer with a landing return. We count the rises at the house. A photo from the hallway is not enough to write the estimate.
Open vs closed sides
A side closed against a wall may only need a handrail. A side open to the foyer needs newels, a continuous handrail, and balusters that meet typical interior guard practice. One open side is a different carpentry job than two. We measure both sides on site.
Wood species
Most Huntsville and Madison makeovers are oak because that is what the adjoining floor is. Other species show up when we are matching an existing hall. Species changes how the tread wears and how stain reads under your light. We sample on the actual boards, not from a chip card.
Framing condition under the carpet
A makeover keeps a sound stringer. Most North Alabama builder stairs are sound under the carpet. When we pull the pad we inspect the framing. If a tread pack or a landing needs extra work, it is written into the estimate before we cut a finished tread. That is why the first visit is a measure, not a start date.
Railing scope
Rail-only is the quote when the treads already match the floor and the leftover builder guard does not. A makeover-plus-rail is one visit when the walking surface and the guard both have to change. Wood balusters, matte black metal balusters, or a mix change the carpentry. See staircase railings and the stair makeover and railing FAQ.
Finish and color match
Matching an original strip-oak hall is a different finish job than matching a newer builder plank. Samples go on your treads and the adjoining floor under your light. Skirt boards and transitions are part of that match. The hall should read as one surface when we leave.
We measure on site and give a free written estimate before any tread is cut. Call (256) 665-2161. For the process itself see carpet-to-hardwood stair makeovers or request a visit on the contact page.