How to Paint the Risers White

Stair risers will take some abuse no matter how hard you try to treat them delicately. Shoe scuffs, stains and scratches are all part of day-to-day wear and tear. Painting the risers white can mean a big cleanup job. That means you want to protect the stairs as much as possible. Use an oil-based paint for this job for best results. If the fumes are too much, use a latex enamel.

Things You'll Need

• Moist rag
• Primer (oil-based for oil paint, latex for latex paint)
• Painter's tape
• 2-inch paintbrush

Instructions

1. Clean off the risers with a moist rag, and put tape on the areas around the risers for protection.

2. Paint primer onto the risers with a 2-inch brush. Use horizontal strokes. Don't use more primer than you need. Watch out for drips. Allow the primer to dry per instructions.

3. Apply the first coat of paint. Use the horizontal stroke method you used for the primer. Less is more here. It's better to use thinner coats, and more of them, for both longevity and sealing purposes. Allow the paint to dry.

4. Apply a second coat, and a third if necessary. Allow to dry between coats.

5. Remove the painter's tape.

References

• Apartment Therapy: White Stair Risers, How to Paint Them and Keep Them Clean
• This Old House: Secrets of a Perfect Paint Job
• Ace Hardware: Paint