wrought iron or white wood for stair remodel?

13 years ago

I am buying a home with a beautiful stairway in the entry. The problem is the stairs are outdated. I know I want medium-dark stained Superior Alder for the handrail and posts -- but I am not sure what kind of post (I am not in love with box newell) and absolutely cannot decide between white wood or wrought iron baullisters (I hope I am using all of the lingo correctly). Any advice?

Featured Answer

K B

13 years ago

Two very distinct looks. As with so many decor decisions, if budget is not an issue, which will you enjoy more? IMHO white balusters are more classic and simply prettier. The key point being just that--it's my opinion. While I would never remove wrought iron, I don't think it's so remarkable as to go to the effort to have it installed. But again that's my opinion. It also seems you would have more control over the cost if you are just having the balusters painted, while it would be harder to gauge what add'l expenses you may have to incur if you replace them.

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Comments (18)

PRO
Rockin' Fine Finish
13 years ago
What's your budget look like that might determine what you use
elysehhoh
Original Author
13 years ago
Around $5000. From what I hear, the cost of having someone paint each piece of wood white makes wood about the same price as iron. If nothing is special order.
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elysehhoh
Original Author
13 years ago
Could spend $6000. I have one bid for iron that is under $6000.
decoenthusiaste
13 years ago
Painted will be more classic, yet generic, for decor purposes. When you go for wrought iron you start tending to limit decor choices I think.
PRO
Art Iron Works Inc.
13 years ago
With that budget ill do something like this.
For sure with time the wood baluster will start shaking. That happen to every wood staircase.
Plus with wrought iron the design options are endless. And it's forever.
PRO
Art Iron Works Inc.
13 years ago
Like I said... Endless.
Lisa Patterson Ŧ
13 years ago
I opted for the wrought iron rails in my new home. The reason being that they are easier to keep clean and do not show dust as easily. Their wear and tear is a bit better and their over all look is more elegant (in my opinion). One of my houses had white ones. With kids running up and down the stairs all the time I found myself scrubbing each rail with a magic eraser more often than I liked.
PRO
Rockin' Fine Finish
13 years ago
Do a black rail with white wood balusters in high gloss from fine paints of Europe this look is very classic and very refined
elysehhoh
Original Author
13 years ago
I appreciate all of your thoughts! I have not thought of some of these pros and cons before.
PRO
Flourish Design Elements
13 years ago
If you're looking for something completely different and unique for a newel post please check out our website www.flourishde.com. We do custom as well.
calamityjane4
13 years ago
It would beautiful and dramatic to paint the balusters a satin black and the handrail stained! I think wrought iron will date your home and it is becoming a "fad", since so many are doing it. When choosing a black, have it mixed with some dark brown, it will soften it. I have seen this done and it is stunning!
Brenda
13 years ago
I'll toss in a vote for painted. I can't help but think of all that 1970's bad iron railings when I see the new trendy wrought iron ones.

When in doubt, stick with a classic.
PRO
CMR Interiors & Design Consultations Inc.
13 years ago
The wood would be cheaper and gives you a fresher look in the house. White.
elysehhoh
Original Author
13 years ago
Great thoughts, this is very helpful. Those are very pretty newel posts.
dhayden56
10 years ago
what about alternating the white and the wrought iron?
Angel 18432
10 years ago
2013 post - Perhaps poster will up-date us.
PRO
The Iron Studio
10 years ago
Beautiful staircase. Keep in mind you have a LOT of wood. You need to decide if you want more wood or bring in another element....iron. Since there is so much I would suggest simple but elegant wooden newel posts with light simple iron pickets. You could even add a touch of scrolls,
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organic in a few places - not everywhere.

Your $5k budget doesn't seem like it will get you very far. I would recommend getting quotes and living with what you have till you can afford to completely re-do the staircase. Staircases make a statement. Good luck.
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