Working on old or historic stairs can be relatively easy with the knowledge of how these staircases were constructed.
The return nosings are generally removable to be able to tighten loose spindles or balusters.
The handrail joints are bolted from the underside of the handrail and plugged to disguise them.
The spindles are often nailed in with cut nails, exposing these nails will allow you to punch them home and tighten the tops of the loose spindles.
Access to the underside of the staircase is desirable to be able to fix loose treads and risers.
Lath and plaster may need to be removed to get access to the underside of the flights.
New spindles may need to turned of balusters cast.
