Although a curved or flared stair may be most formal, fancy railings, newels, rosettes, mouldings, etc. can make a straight staircase more elegant.

Here's a short guide to stairparts and railings.

Pieces of stairs:

Railings:

• Balusters: Spindles or pickets that connect the railing to the ground- square, plain, fluted, twisted or octagonal in a variety of styles.
• Newel post: Main post at top and bottom of stairs and on platforms.

Stairs:

• Treads: The section of the stair that one steps on.
• Risers: The section of the stair that is perpendicular to treads
• Stringers: This section holds the treads and risers together and adds stability.

All parts of the stairs can be finished the same, some parts can be painted while others are stained, the treads can be totally carpeted, or have carpet applied just up the middle runner style so the ends are exposed (tread caps).

Stairs can be made in many different styles, but because what one person thinks of "Colonial" is another person's "Victorian" it's a good idea to actually look at the styles available to make a final choice.

When repairs are necessary: Because stairs are made of pieces, it may be possible to just replace one piece if the staircase is not too old. If it is an older staircase, it may be necessary to replace the entire railing so they match or have one or two custom made to match the others.

Because it may be necessary to remove the entire railing to repair or replace just one baluster, a skilled finish carpenter should tackle the job.

-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com