Kidsgrove · Stoke-on-Trent · South Cheshire

Doors, Woodwork & Staircases

Woodwork is where good decorating shows. Doors, skirting, spindles and frames sanded, filled and finished to a smooth, crisp result with no brush marks, runs or gaps.

12+ years' experience  ·  Fully insured  ·  Free written quotes
What's covered

The detail that finishes a room

Booked on its own or as part of a room. Updating tired woodwork can transform a house without touching the walls.

Internal doors

Panelled, flush and glazed doors, painted in the right order for an even finish.

Front & period doors

Taken back, repaired and finished in a deep, rich colour, including carved detail.

Skirting & architraves

Dents filled, gaps caulked and edges cut in sharply against walls and floors.

Staircases

Spindles, newel posts, handrails and strings, including varnished stairs painted for the first time.

Frames & window boards

Door and window frames, sills and boards, prepared and finished to wear well.

Panelling & fitted joinery

Wall panelling, fitted cupboards and kitchen cabinets.

Two levels of woodwork

Refresh or full redecoration?

Gloss shows every flaw beneath it, so woodwork is where preparation matters most. Your quote will say clearly which level your woodwork needs.

Compare Refresh Full redecoration
Best for Sound paintwork that's scuffed, dull or discoloured Chipped or flaking paint, heavy layers, bare timber, or varnished wood being painted
Preparation Cleaned, degreased and sanded to give a key Failed paint and heavy build-up removed, sanded back to a smooth, sound surface
Repairs Small dents and chips filled Dents, splits and open joints filled, every gap caulked
Bare timber Spot-primed where needed Knotted and primed, or an adhesion primer on varnish
Coats One or two top coats Undercoat plus one or two top coats
Result Fresh, clean and bright Glass-smooth, crisp and long-lasting
Staircases & older homes

Careful work, without taking over your home

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Stairs painted in stages, so you can still get up and down while it dries

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Doors wedged open while drying, so they don't stick to the frames

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Dust controlled and cleaned up as I go

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In older homes, old paint layers can contain lead. I use safe methods to prepare them, with no dry sanding or burning of suspect paint.

Finishes

Choosing a finish for your woodwork

I'll recommend the right finish for how the woodwork is used and the style of your home.

Gloss

High shine and very hard-wearing. The traditional choice for skirting and doors.

Satin

A softer, mid sheen that's modern, durable and forgiving of small imperfections.

Eggshell

A low sheen, popular for period homes and for matching woodwork to walls.

Water or oil-based?

Water-based dries quickly and stays white. Oil-based flows beautifully but can yellow over time. I'll advise on which suits your job.

Case studies

Recent woodwork projects

Weathered white double door in a brick building entrance, with arched transom and signs on the left.
Bright yellow ornate door set in a brick building entrance with steps and black iron railings.

Carved Victorian front door restoration

Small beige kitchen with cabinets, granite counters, sink, stove, dishwasher, and tiled backsplash.
Modern kitchen with dark green cabinets, built-in oven, countertop, sink, and window.

Kitchen Cabinet
Painting



Wooden staircase with carpeted steps and dark railing in a narrow hallway
White-painted staircase with paneling and balusters, carpeted steps, and a brown floor below.

1930s Hallway, Stairs & Landing Makeover



"

I cannot rate this young man enough very efficient communicated the whole way through decorating our whole house, he sure knows his stuff if you want a decorator this is your man. Nothing is to much trouble. Thank you soo so much. 5* from me would be more

Amy

Questions

Woodwork FAQs

  • Can you paint varnished or stained wood?

    Yes. Varnished and stained wood is sanded to give a key, then primed with a specialist adhesion primer so the new paint grips properly and doesn't peel.

  • Can we still use the stairs while you're painting?

    Yes. I paint staircases in stages, for example alternate treads or one side at a time, so there's always a safe way up and down while the paint dries.

  • How long before I can close my doors?

    Most water-based paints are touch-dry in a few hours, but it's best to leave doors slightly open overnight so they don't stick to the frames. Paint takes a couple of weeks to fully harden, so treat it gently at first.

  • Should I choose water-based or oil-based paint?

    Water-based paints dry quickly, have less smell and stay bright white. Oil-based paints give a very smooth, traditional finish but take longer to dry and can yellow over time, especially in rooms with little daylight. I'll recommend the best option for your woodwork and the look you want.

  • Do you paint kitchen cabinets?

    Yes. Cabinets are deep cleaned, degreased, sanded and primed with an adhesion primer, then finished in a hard-wearing paint

Want crisp, clean woodwork?

Free survey and a written, itemised quote. Photos help me give you an idea of cost straight away.