A staircase is so much more than a way to get from one floor to another; it’s the architectural spine of a home. For one family in Scarborough, their dated, carpet-covered staircase was a source of frustration—it was worn, difficult to clean, and did nothing to enhance their home’s character. They envisioned a grand, welcoming feature that would stand the test of time. Our mission was to bring that vision to life with a full staircase overhaul, centered around stunning medium-tone coffee coloured hardwood flooring.
Project Quick Facts
- Location: Scarborough, Toronto, ON
- Project Type: Full Staircase Replacement and Refinishing
- Key Materials: Solid Red Oak Treads, Poplar Risers, Wrought Iron Spindles, Custom Coffee-Coloured Stain
- Duration: 2-3 weeks
- Timeline: Winter 2024
The Design Vision: Warmth Meets Modernity
The homeowners’ primary goal was to eliminate the tired carpeting and create a clean, elegant, and durable staircase. They wanted a look that felt both classic and contemporary, capable of anchoring their home’s aesthetic for years to come. The central element of this vision was the colour and material of the treads.
We landed on a medium-tone coffee coloured stain for several reasons. Unlike very dark stains that can show dust easily or very light stains that can feel washed out, this specific shade strikes a perfect balance. It introduces a rich, organic warmth that makes the entryway feel inviting and cozy, a welcome feeling during Toronto’s colder months. This versatile colour also pairs beautifully with a wide range of wall colours and decor styles, giving the homeowners flexibility for future updates.
To create a crisp, modern contrast, we decided to pair the warm oak treads with bright white risers and stringers (the diagonal boards supporting the stairs). This classic combination makes the staircase appear lighter and more open, preventing the stairwell from feeling dark or enclosed. The final touch would be simple, matte black wrought iron spindles to add a graphic, contemporary edge that would tie the entire design together.
Materials & Specifications: Built to Last
A staircase is one of the highest-traffic areas in any home, so selecting materials built for durability was paramount. Every component was chosen for its performance, safety, and aesthetic contribution.
- Treads: We used 1 1/16-inch thick solid Red Oak. Oak is a go-to choice for stairs due to its exceptional hardness and resistance to dings and dents. Its prominent grain pattern also absorbs stain beautifully, allowing the depth of the coffee colour to shine through.
- Risers & Stringers: For these vertical surfaces, we selected paint-grade Poplar. It’s a stable hardwood that provides a perfectly smooth surface for paint. We finished them in a high-quality, scuff-resistant white semi-gloss paint, which is easy to wipe clean and reflects light beautifully.
- Handrail & Newel Posts: To maintain a cohesive look, the newel posts and the handrail were also crafted from solid Red Oak and stained to perfectly match the treads. We chose a simple, squared-off 3.5-inch newel post for a modern, substantial anchor point and paired it with a sleek, comfortable handrail profile.
- Spindles (Balusters): The spindles were single-knuckle, hollow wrought iron finished in a durable matte black powder coat. This simple design adds visual interest without appearing too busy, contributing to the clean, modern aesthetic.
- Stain & Finish: The star of the show was our custom-mixed, medium-tone coffee coloured stain. After staining, every wood component received three coats of a commercial-grade, water-based polyurethane. This topcoat provides a hard-wearing, non-yellowing finish that protects the wood from daily wear and tear while showcasing its natural beauty.
The Process & Timeline: A Site Diary
A staircase renovation is a meticulous process that requires precision at every stage. We followed a carefully planned schedule over the course of the project to minimize disruption for the homeowners.
Week 1: Demolition and Structural Fortification
Our first few days on site in Scarborough were dedicated to careful deconstruction and preparation. We began by removing the old carpet, underpad, and staples—a tedious but necessary task. Once the carpet was gone, we dismantled the dated wooden railing and balusters.
With the staircase stripped to its bones, we could assess the underlying structure, known as the stringers. In many older Toronto homes, stringers can settle or weaken over time, leading to squeaks and uneven steps. This was our chance to make things perfect. We spent a full day sistering new lumber onto the existing stringers, reinforcing the entire structure to be rock-solid and completely squeak-free. We also checked every step for level and consistency, ensuring the rise and run complied with the Ontario Building Code for safety and comfort. The final prep step was to sand and prime the stringers and wall skirts for their fresh coat of white paint.
Week 2: Installation and Artistry
This week was all about bringing the new staircase to life. Our carpenters began by installing the new Poplar risers, followed by the solid oak treads. Each tread was custom-cut and dry-fitted on-site to ensure a flawless, tight fit with no gaps. This is where true craftsmanship makes a difference. We use a combination of construction adhesive and fasteners to ensure a permanent, silent bond between the tread, riser, and stringer.
Next, we securely installed the new, substantial oak newel posts, anchoring them directly into the floor joists for maximum stability. This is a critical safety step, as the newel posts are the primary anchors for the entire railing system. With the main construction complete, our finishing team took over to apply the custom coffee-coloured stain to the treads and the yet-to-be-installed handrail. This process was done with meticulous care to achieve a consistent, rich colour across every piece.
Week 3: Finishing Touches and Final Reveal
The final week was focused on protection and detail. We applied three coats of durable polyurethane to the treads and handrail, with light sanding between each coat to create a perfectly smooth and resilient surface.
Once the finish was fully cured, it was time for the final assembly. We installed the newly stained handrail and then began fitting the matte black wrought iron spindles. According to the Ontario Building Code, the gap between spindles can be no more than 4 inches to ensure safety for children. We carefully measured and drilled each placement, securing the spindles for a rigid and secure guardrail.
The last day was spent on the final details that elevate a project from good to great: caulking all seams, touching up paint, and performing a thorough cleaning of the entire work area. We concluded with a final walkthrough with the homeowners, who were overjoyed to see their vision realized.
The Final Look: A Transformative Centrepiece
The transformation was breathtaking. The once-dark and enclosed stairwell was now a bright, open, and undeniably elegant focal point of the home. The medium-tone coffee coloured hardwood treads exude warmth and sophistication, their beautiful oak grain catching the light. The crisp white risers provide a stunning contrast, making the entire structure feel lighter and more expansive.
The matte black spindles add a touch of modern drama, their clean vertical lines drawing the eye upward. The new staircase doesn’t just connect two floors; it connects the home’s entire design aesthetic. It feels solid underfoot, looks timeless, and has fundamentally changed the character of the home’s entryway from the moment you walk through the door.
Design Takeaways
- Embrace Contrast: The dynamic interplay between the warm wood, clean white, and bold black is what gives this design its powerful impact. Don’t be afraid to mix materials and finishes.
- Invest in the Bones: A squeaky or flimsy staircase will undermine even the most beautiful materials. Reinforcing the underlying structure is the most important investment you can make in a stair renovation.
- Colour Matters: The choice of a medium-tone stain proved to be the perfect solution. It adds character and warmth without overwhelming the space, making it a versatile foundation for any decor.
- Safety is Style: Adhering to building codes for railing height and spindle spacing isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s fundamental to good design. A safe staircase is a beautiful staircase. If this kind of detailed transformation appeals to you, we invite you to request a free quote to discuss your own project.
Maintenance Tips for Your New Hardwood Stairs
To keep this Scarborough staircase looking its best for decades, we provided the homeowners with a few simple care instructions:
- Regular Cleaning: Sweep with a soft-bristle brush or use a vacuum’s hard floor attachment to remove grit and dust that can act like sandpaper over time.
- Damp, Not Wet: For deeper cleaning, use a microfibre cloth lightly dampened with water and a pH-neutral wood floor cleaner. Never use a soaking wet mop or harsh chemicals like vinegar or ammonia.
- Protect the Surface: Place mats at exterior doors to reduce the amount of dirt tracked in. Avoid wearing high heels on the stairs, and keep pets’ claws trimmed to prevent scratches.
- Future Refresh: The beauty of solid hardwood is that it can be refinished. In 15-20 years, if the finish shows signs of wear, the treads can be professionally screened and recoated to look brand new again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to renovate my staircase in Scarborough?
For a cosmetic renovation like this one—where we are replacing treads, risers, and railings without altering the location or structural framework of the staircase—a permit is typically not required in Toronto. However, all work must strictly adhere to the current Ontario Building Code for safety, including requirements for handrail height, guardrail strength, and spindle spacing. Our team is fully versed in these codes and ensures every project is 100% compliant.
How do you ensure the new stairs won’t squeak?
Squeaks are caused by friction between wooden components. We prevent this in three ways: first, by reinforcing the underlying stringers to create a rigid, unmoving foundation. Second, by using a premium construction adhesive in addition to mechanical fasteners when installing each tread and riser. Third, by ensuring every single piece is custom-cut for a precise, tight fit. This comprehensive approach results in a silent, solid staircase.
Can you match the stain of our new staircase to our existing hardwood floors?
Absolutely. This is one of our specialties. We understand that creating a seamless flow between your floors and your new staircase is crucial. Our team can create custom stain samples on the same wood species as your stairs (e.g., Red Oak) and adjust the formula on-site to achieve a perfect match with your existing medium-tone coffee coloured hardwood flooring or any other shade you have in your home.
The right staircase can completely redefine your home’s entryway. It’s the first thing guests see and the path your family travels every single day. If this Scarborough transformation has inspired you to rethink the staircase in your own home, we’d love to help you explore the possibilities. Contact us today for a free quote and let’s create a beautiful, lasting first impression together.