Wooden Staircase Finishing & Restorations
Staircase Restoration Specialists
reveal the true beauty of your staircase
We specialise in restoring and finishing wooden staircases in both contemporary and period properties. From original staircases and handrails to bespoke new installations, we approach every project with care, craftsmanship and an appreciation for the character and style of each property. Using traditional restoration methods and specialist finishing techniques, we bring new life to staircases that are decades, and sometimes centuries, old, enhancing the natural beauty and character of the timber. For new and bespoke staircases, we create finishes that complement the surrounding interior, carefully considering colours, tones and textures. Whether you’re looking for traditionally French polished handrails, authentic aged effects, elegant painted finishes or beautiful natural wood tones, our experienced family team can achieve a finish that suits both your staircase and your home. Breathing new life into an existing staircase or adding the perfect finishing touch to a new installation, we provide beautiful, durable finishes designed to stand the test of time.
Get in touch to discuss your staircase restoration or finishing project. We’re always happy to offer friendly advice and guidance.
Our staircase services include:
– Staircase restoration and finishes
– Bespoke and designer staircase finishes
– Original or exitsting wooden staircases
– Traditional French polished handrails
– Contemporary and new-build staircase projects
– Lacquers, natural waxes and oils
– Specialist wood, aged and painted effects
– Complete timber staircase finishing and protection
Looking for a new or adapted staircase?
If you’re looking for a new staircase or need alterations to an existing one, we’re happy to recommend Hampshire Staircase Refurbishments, a local staircase company specialising in building and adapting staircases.
Our Project - Finishing Oak Balustrade
Making Good Beside Glass: Finishing Work on a Hampshire Staircase
Some of our best work is the kind nobody notices. This staircase refurbishment, for a family home near Yateley, Hampshire, is a good example.
The Project
Hampshire Staircase Refurbishments (HSR), a specialist we have worked with on a number of projects, asked us to help with a solid oak staircase they were refurbishing. The homeowners wanted a more open, contemporary look, with the spindles replaced by glass.
The original oak was beautifully made and in excellent condition, so HSR kept the main structure, newel posts and handrails rather than replacing them. That meant our finishing had to blend with the original oak.
The Challenge
The spindles had been let into the treads, each one sitting in its own diamond-shaped recess cut into the wood. Once HSR had carefully removed them, those recesses were left behind.
With spindles in place, nobody would ever see them. Beside clear glass, they would have been obvious. There is nowhere for an old repair to hide next to a glass balustrade.
Our Work
We sanded back the areas where the spindles had been let in and refinished them to blend with the surrounding oak. The aim was simple: once the glass was fitted, the treads should look as though the recesses had never been there.
It is patient work, and it is easy to spot when it has been rushed. Done properly, it leaves nothing to see.
The Result
The staircase kept its original oak structure, newel posts and handrails, and gained a clean, open glass balustrade. The treads beside the glass are clear and even, with no trace of the work behind them.
If you are thinking about an oak staircase with glass of your own, Hampshire Staircase Refurbishments have more information about their “Wood and Glass Staircases in Hampshire” https://hampshirestaircase.co.uk/services/wood-and-glass-staircases/
Have a Finishing Job in Mind?
Whether it is an old repair that needs to disappear or a finish that needs bringing back to life, we would be glad to hear about your project.
Get in touch with G Dance Polishing to discuss your staircase restoration or finishing requirements.
Common Questions about STAIRCASES
What types of staircases do you work on?
Solid wood and veneered, including traditional, period, and modern staircases.
Can an old or worn staircase be restored rather than replaced?
In many cases, yes. Well-built staircases are often worth restoring and can be brought back to life with careful preparation and the right finish.
What finishes are suitable for wooden staircases?
We offer both traditional and modern finishes, depending on the staircase and how it’s used.
Options may include hard-wearing lacquers, or French polish where appropriate.
Will the staircase be slippery after finishing?
We use finishes suitable for stair use and can incorporate slip-resistant properties where required, while still achieving a high-quality appearance.
How long does staircase restoration or refinishing take?
Timeframes vary depending on size, condition and finish choice. We’ll give you a clear estimate before starting, usually 1 or 2 weeks.
How durable are your staircase finishes?
With normal use and care, a properly finished staircase will wear evenly and age well.
Can the work be done with minimal disruption?
Yes. We plan staircase work carefully to minimise disruption and dust. Where possible, we phase the work so access can be maintained, and we take steps to protect surrounding areas.
Can you change the colour or tone of the staircase?
Yes. We can colour-match staircases to suit your interior. We prepare samples for options.
How do I get a quote for staircase work?
We usually ask for photos and then discuss details. In some cases, a site visit may be recommended to further assess. Give us a call or fill out a contact form below or on our contacts page here.

