Interior Trim and Staircase Painting in Larimer County
a Case Study by CertaPro Painters® of Fort Collins
Interior Trim and Staircase Painting in Larimer County
In January 2026, CertaPro Painters of Fort Collins completed a detailed interior trim project involving a full stain-to-paint conversion of a staircase railing and banister in a residential home in Fort Collins, Colorado. Located in a desirable southwest Fort Collins neighborhood near Horsetooth Reservoir and Spring Canyon Park, the home had already transitioned most interior trim from stained wood to painted finishes. The staircase railings and banister were the final stained elements remaining, making them a prominent focal point in the home’s foyer and entry area.
The goal of the project was to convert the stained wood millwork to a modern painted finish that matched the rest of the home while ensuring long-term durability for this high-contact surface.
Condition Before the Project
Before the project began, the staircase railings and banister were finished in stained wood while the rest of the home’s trim had already been painted. Because stained wood surfaces cannot simply be painted over, the project required a full stain-to-paint conversion process to ensure proper adhesion and long-term durability.
The glossy finish of the existing stain needed to be properly prepared through deglossing and scuff sanding to create a surface profile that paint could bond to effectively. Without this preparation, painted railings are prone to chipping, peeling, or early failure due to frequent hand contact.
Stain-to-Paint Conversion on Prominent Millwork:
Converting stained wood railings and a banister to paint is a more involved process than simply repainting an already-painted surface. CertaPro followed a proper multi-step process – scuff sanding and deglossing to remove sheen and profile the wood for bonding, application of a full prime coat using Sherwin-Williams Extreme Bond Primer, and two finish coats of Emerald Trim Enamel. Skipping or shortcutting any of these steps on high-contact surfaces like railings leads to premature chipping and failure.
Floor Protection:
New carpet was anticipated prior to the start of the project, requiring thorough floor and surface protection throughout to prevent any drips or splatter on freshly installed flooring. As the staircase is the primary route between floors in the home, our team staged the work carefully, maintaining clear access at the end of each day, and keeping the work area clean and safe throughout the project.
Technical Specifications:
Railings & Banister: Sherwin-Williams Emerald Trim Enamel Acrylic Urethane — Semi-Gloss, Black
Primer: Sherwin-Williams Extreme Bond Primer — full prime coat over scuff-sanded and deglossed stained wood
Sherwin-Williams Emerald Trim Enamel is one of the hardest-wearing interior trim products available, offering exceptional scuff and mar resistance — an important quality for high-contact surfaces like stair railings that see daily use.
Before Photos
The photos below show the home’s staircase and trim before the work began. Click on any image to open the photo album.
In-progress Photos
These photos show how our team prepared the home to fully protect all surrounding areas during painting. Click on any photo to zoom in.
Final Results
The completed staircase transformation delivered a bold, modern black finish that now aligns with the rest of the home’s painted trim. The conversion eliminated the final stained wood element in the interior, creating a cohesive and updated design throughout the entryway and surrounding living spaces.
With proper preparation, premium products, and careful staging in an occupied home, the project was completed in just two days while maintaining safety, cleanliness, and long-term durability.
After Photos
The photos below show the project results. Click on any image to open the photo album.
Project Information
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