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SNYDERSTAIRS
Resources · Tools & Catalogs

Plan yourstair project.

Browse our wood and metal catalogs, sketch a layout in our online stair designer, or read through our material guides before you call.

Tools to plan with

Sketch a layout in the StairArtist designer or read the care guide below. Spec'ing for a job? Call or email support@snyderstairs.com for unwatermarked DWG bundles — usually same-day.

Material guides
Stained white-oak treads with white painted risers — Caruso project
Stained white-oak treads with white painted risers — Caruso project
Stair material choices

Match the treads to the floor.

A general rule of thumb for your treads is to use the wood species that matches your hardwood flooring. When the stair treads match the flooring, this provides a fluid transition from the foyer to the stairs and helps provide the consistent look that only adds value to your home.

For risers and stringers, it's very popular to paint them to match the trim color in the home — the more traditional choice. A current trend in modern homes calls for risers and stringers in hardwood that matches the tread selection.

Iron baluster detail

Wood or Metal Balusters

Balusters define your stair.

Balusters — also known as spindles — are an essential component to most every stairway. Both wood and iron balusters provide the structural support you need for a safe, code-compliant stairway, and they are the single most important factor in creating your own unique look.

The two most popular kinds are wood and iron. Wood carries a classic appeal that suits traditional homes. Iron carries a more sophisticated look that fits modern, transitional, and even contemporary takes on a colonial.

Over-the-post wood handrail flowing over turned newel

Over the Post vs Post to Post

Two installation methods.

One of the aspects of your railing that can significantly impact the style is installing the railing in an over-the-post or post-to-post fashion.

In a post-to-post staircase design, the handrails run between two newel posts. In an over-the-post staircase design, the handrails run continuously over the newel posts. Wood or metal balusters can be used with either installation method.

Post to post is a very traditional look. Over the post installations are a more elegant feel that takes you back to the craftsmanship of years gone by.

Refinished oak treads on a recent install

Material Care

Built to last a lifetime — with a little care.

Hardwood treads benefit from a humidity range between 35 % and 55 % year-round. Run a humidifier in winter and you'll never see a tread cup or a riser crack. Refinish on demand — a hardwood tread can be sanded and re-stained four to six times across its lifetime.

Iron balusters are powdercoated for durability. Wipe with a damp microfiber as needed; avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the finish. Call (610) 443-2240 if something doesn't feel right — we'll come look at it.

  • Run a humidifier in winter to keep humidity 35 %–55 %
  • Hardwood treads can be refinished 4–6 times in their lifetime
  • Iron balusters: damp microfiber only, no abrasive cleaners
  • Our own crew on every check-in call
What customers say
G
4.8
Verified reviews · 4.8★ on Google
Family-Owned Since 1987Lehigh Valley Local
What our customers are saying

Five stars across the Valley.

Honest words from your Lehigh Valley neighbors — Allentown, Bethlehem, Macungie, Center Valley. No paid placements.

★★★★★
GGoogle

Easy to work with up front and honest and flexible. Installation went the best i've ever had.

D
Darrell HotniskyVerified Google review · 2026
★★★★★
GGoogle

Snyder Stairs has been been installing new railings in our jobs for years. We have always been very happy with the quality of the installs

S
Steven DormannVerified Google review · 2026
★★★★★
GGoogle

Nick and the team did a great job on our stair project. High volume of communication to ensure expectations were aligned and install work/craftsmanship was A+

C
Christopher GroverVerified Google review · 2025
★★★★★
GGoogle

Nick and the team at Snyder Stairs did a wonderful job. On time and on budget. They were very easy to work with and provided us with a beautiful stair.

J
John LiberatoreVerified Google review · 2025
★★★★★
GGoogle

Don't go anywhere else for help with stairs PERIOD. Nick and all the folks here are extremely knowledgeable, helpful and honestly fun to work with. And at very competitive prices. Thank you!

D
Donald HagenbuchVerified Google review · 2025
★★★★★
GGoogle

Had a great experience with Snyder Stairs in updating our staircase! The were very efficient and the project was knocked out in a week. Everything went well with the timeline and install. Very flexible and easy to work with!

C
Chase MatherVerified Google review · 2025

Talk to a stair builder

Answers before you spend a dollar.

Call today for a free over-the-phone consultation. Bring photos, dimensions, or just questions — we'll help you sort through the options before you commit.

Budget on the first call · (610) 443-2240 · Whitehall, PA

Snyder Stairs shop