
Looking to update your staircase without replacing the whole thing? At Hawthorn Joinery, we renovate existing staircases across Stockport, Cheshire and South Manchester.
By changing the handrails, newel posts, baserails and spindles, we can completely transform a tired or dated staircase. Options include solid oak, clear glass panels, black metal spindles and traditional oak-and-white designs.
Every staircase is different. Therefore, each renovation is measured and planned around your existing stairs, the style of your home and the finish you want to achieve.
We offer a range of staircase styles to suit both traditional and modern homes. Each option can be adapted to work with your existing staircase.

Solid oak is a popular choice because it is durable, attractive and easy to match with different interior styles. It works well in both period properties and modern homes. We can replace existing handrails, baserails, newel posts, spindles and newel caps with matching oak components. Where required, visible staircase strings and other timber sections can also be over-clad to create a more complete finish. Oak can be left ready for finishing, treated with a clear oil or professionally stained and lacquered. Therefore, the final colour can be chosen to complement your flooring, doors and other woodwork.

Glass panels are a good alternative to traditional timber spindles. They allow more light to pass through the staircase and can make a hallway feel brighter and less enclosed. Clear toughened glass can be combined with oak handrails, baserails and newel posts. Depending on the staircase design, the panels can be secured using glass clamps or fitted into grooved timber rails. Although glass creates a modern appearance, the warmth of the oak prevents the finished staircase from feeling too stark. This combination works particularly well in open-plan hallways and darker entrance areas.

Black metal spindles create a clean, contemporary look without replacing the full staircase. They can be paired with solid oak handrails, baserails and newel posts to add contrast and detail. Several spindle designs are available, including plain square profiles and more decorative styles. As a result, the finished balustrade can be kept simple or given a stronger feature appearance. Metal spindles are also durable and easy to maintain. For that reason, they are a practical option for busy family homes as well as modern renovation projects.

An oak-and-white staircase combines painted components with natural timber details. Usually, the strings and spindles are painted white, while the handrails, baserails, newel posts or caps are finished in oak. This style creates a lighter appearance while still introducing the warmth of natural timber. It also suits a wide range of properties, from traditional houses to more modern family homes. Painted components can be supplied ready for final decoration. Alternatively, professional spray finishing can be arranged where this has been included in the quotation.

Many traditional staircases can be modernised without losing their original shape or character. By removing dated components and replacing them with cleaner profiles, the whole hallway can feel more current. Popular changes include replacing turned spindles with square oak or black metal alternatives. Old handrails and newel posts can also be exchanged for simpler designs. However, not every traditional detail needs to be removed. In some homes, a combination of traditional proportions and modern materials gives the best result.

Staircase cladding can be used to cover worn or painted timber while retaining the original structure underneath. Oak cladding and matching trims are carefully measured, cut and scribed to fit the existing stairs. Depending on the project, we can clad staircase strings, landing aprons, newel posts and other visible sections. This work is often completed alongside a new balustrade so the staircase has one consistent finish. Because the main staircase remains in place, cladding usually causes less disruption than installing a completely new flight.
Many older staircases remain solid and structurally sound. However, their handrails, spindles and timber details may no longer suit the rest of the home.
A staircase refurbishment allows you to keep the main structure while replacing the parts that affect its appearance. As a result, you can achieve the look of a new staircase without the cost and disruption of removing the whole flight.
Renovation also gives you more choice over the final design. For example, you can combine oak handrails with white spindles, use clear glass to open up the hallway or introduce black metal spindles for a more modern finish.
✓ Less disruption to your home
✓ Faster installation
✓ Modernises your hallway
✓ Increases kerb appeal
✓ Adds value to your property
✓ Oak Staircase Renovations
✓ Oak & White Staircases
✓ Oak Handrails with White Spindles
✓ Painted Staircases
✓ Traditional Turned Spindles
✓ Modern Square Spindles
✓ Glass Staircase Panels
✓ Clamped Glass Balustrades
✓ Fully Bespoke Joinery Solutions
✓ High-Quality Craftsmanship
✓ Made-to-Measure Joinery
✓ Reliable & Professional Service
✓ Local Joinery Company
✓ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 Google Rating
The cost depends on the size and shape of the staircase, the materials selected and how much of the existing structure is being changed.
Replacing handrails and spindles will normally cost less than a full refurbishment involving newel posts, oak cladding and glass panels. Photos can often be used to provide an initial estimate before arranging a survey.
Yes, provided the main staircase is structurally sound. In most cases, the existing flight can remain while the visible balustrade and timber components are replaced.
We will assess the condition of the staircase before confirming the proposed work.
Most staircase refurbishments take between two and five days depending on the size and complexity of the project. Larger staircase renovations involving extensive cladding, bespoke joinery or additional work such as understairs storage may take longer. We will always provide a realistic timescale before work begins.
In most cases, no. Many existing staircases are structurally sound and can be completely transformed by replacing outdated components and adding modern finishes. A staircase renovation can often achieve the appearance of a brand-new staircase without the expense and disruption of a full replacement.
Yes. Oak staircase components can be left natural, stained to achieve a darker finish or professionally spray finished to match your interior. We can provide samples and discuss the various finish options available to help achieve the look you are after.
Yes. Many customers choose to combine a staircase renovation with bespoke understairs storage. We can design and build made-to-measure cupboards, drawers and storage solutions that complement the style of your newly renovated staircase while making better use of the available space.
We provide bespoke staircase renovations throughout Stockport, South Manchester and Cheshire. Whether you’re looking to replace dated spindles, install oak handrails, add glass panels or completely transform an existing staircase, we can help create a design tailored to your home.
We regularly carry out staircase renovations throughout Stockport, including Bramhall, Cheadle Hulme, Hazel Grove, Poynton and the surrounding areas. Popular upgrades include oak handrails, black metal spindles and complete staircase refurbishments.
Our staircase renovation services are available throughout Cheshire, including Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Northwich, Middlewich and Nantwich. Every staircase is tailored to suit the style of your home and existing layout.
We also work across South Manchester, including Didsbury, Chorlton, Sale and Altrincham, helping homeowners modernise outdated staircases without the cost of a full replacement.
We’re proud of the reputation we’ve built through quality workmanship, honest advice and reliable service. Here’s what some of our customers across Stockport, Cheshire and South Manchester have to say about working with Hawthorn Joinery.
EXCELLENT
Based on 65 reviews
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Swetha KrishnanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We’re absolutely delighted with our new banister! The installation was fantastic from start to finish, and the finished result looks amazing. Really happy with the quality of the work and would definitely recommend!Posted on Google![]()
C GTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We would highly recommend Hawthorn Joinery. Mark and Jon fitted our kitchen and the quality of the work was 10/10! Thanks again!Posted on Google![]()
Katie DentonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We’re absolutely thrilled with the work Mark has donefitting our wardrobes. We have fitted wardrobes in other rooms and wanted the same in another room. We sourced the wardrobes and asked Mark for his help to fit them. He’s done such a great job! It’s like they’ve always been there and all in one day! Brilliant to work with and would definitely use again 🙌🏻Posted on Google![]()
Elaine PayneTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had John do us a stair case renovation. Fantastic job. Looks lovely. He worked long days in 30°+. Very precise and left everywhere clean n tidy. Would definitely recommend.Posted on Google![]()
Sheila UreTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mark did a stair case renovation transforming my open tread, delapidated, eyesore of a staircase, into faboulous oak one. Marks craftmanship, attention to detail and pride in his work is exceptional. Due to the above I have asked Mark to build fitted wardrobes in two bedrooms, oak tv unit and oak nest of tables. I highly recommend Mark. Mark has now created the bespoke beautifully crafted wardrobes in two bedrooms. Professional sprayed and interiors done to suit my storage needs.Posted on Google![]()
Andrea HarjayTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mark refurbished our staircase and the under-stairs storage doors, and we couldn't be happier with the result. The quality of his workmanship is outstanding, and we absolutely love how everything has turned out. Throughout the project, Mark was always punctual, polite, and professional. Communication was excellent from start to finish, and he left everything clean and tidy at the end of each day. We would highly recommend Mark to anyone looking for a reliable and skilled craftsman. We certainly won't hesitate to ask him back for future projects.Posted on Google![]()
Michael PollitTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mark has done a lot of work for us. He always works to a very high standard and goes the extra mile. I would definitely recommend Mark.Posted on Google![]()
Chris DawsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We are delighted to recommend Mark. Very recently he fitted a kitchen for us. He was thorough, efficient and skilled. He sorted snags and problems in the design given him and we have ended up with a lovely new kitchen.Posted on Google![]()
Alex PoynterTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mark designed, built and installed a single bed with wardrobe, storage cupboards and drawers over a stair bulkhead jn our little girl’s 2x2.4m box room. From start to finish Mark’s communication and professionalism were exceptional. He made lots of thoughtful points on the design, provided accurate drawings and sent a detailed quote. During install the work was of the highest standard and every detail was finished with fantastic craftsmanship. At the end of each day everything was left clean and tidy. Would throughly recommend and would definitely use again for future projects.
If you’re thinking about updating your staircase, just get in touch and we can have a chat about what you’re looking to achieve. We can talk through options and give you a rough idea on price, then arrange a visit if needed.
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