Eggshell or Satinwood for stair rail?

[Lovehearts101]

Painting our stair rail from fresh wood.

We are keeping the actual banister as wood but painting the spindles white.

I think I prefer the look of eggshell but I’m reading that it might not be very hardwearing?

A stairway handrail is probably one of the most touched bits of any house. But I think in most homes, spindles don't get much contact (I do not have toddlers though).

I'm imagining if people are complaining about eggshell not doing well, it was on a handrail/bannister, not spindles, so if you prefer eggshell I think you should go for it.

I've got Farrow & Ball Modern Eggshell on the handrail (they were already painted, not new wood). No issues so far – but it's dark, so don't know if it's fair to compare. Also, I've come to accept that stair finials will need touching up no matter what the finish or colour.

@Lovehearts101. Eggshell is super hard wearing! We use F&B for interior woodwork and it’s perfect. Satin has a sheen which I’m less keen on. They all might chip if you bang them with something hard but after 14 years our spindles are like new. Neither does it yellow! It’s a good product.

We had a similar dilemma a few months back when repainting the spindles and base rail in our hallway. Personally, I love the softer, more traditional finish of eggshell, it feels less glossy and more in keeping with older-style interiors. That said, I was also worried about durability, especially with kids constantly grabbing onto everything!

In the end, we went with a high-quality water-based eggshell (also from Farrow & Ball), and it’s held up beautifully so far. As others have mentioned, the spindles don't get nearly as much wear as the bannister itself, so if you're leaving the handrail as natural wood, I think you're fine opting for eggshell on the spindles. It's much easier to touch up later too, if needed.

One tip: make sure the surface is well-prepped and primed, paint longevity is often more about the prep than the finish itself.

If you’re still unsure or considering professional help, I found some really useful resources on paint finishes and prep over at this site click here for a good overview.

Hope that helps! Let us know what you go with.

Hello Lovehearts101,Great question! I've had experience with both eggshell and satinwood finishes, and I can share some insights.Eggshell Finish:- Pros: Eggshell finish has a subtle sheen that gives a smooth and elegant look. It's easier to clean and maintain compared to flat finishes.- Cons: It might not be as hardwearing as satinwood. It can be more susceptible to scratches and wear over time, especially in high-traffic areas like stair rails.Satinwood Finish:- Pros: Satinwood finish has a slightly higher sheen than eggshell, which can add a bit more shine and durability. It's more resistant to scratches and wear, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas.- Cons: It might require more maintenance to keep it looking its best, as it can show fingerprints and smudges more easily.Recommendation:- If you prioritize durability and want a finish that can withstand more wear and tear, satinwood might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more subtle and elegant look and are willing to do a bit more maintenance, eggshell could be a great option.Additional Tips:- Preparation: Make sure to properly prepare the surface before painting. Sand the wood lightly and apply a good primer to ensure the paint adheres well and lasts longer.- Maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain the finish to keep it looking its best. Use mild cleaning solutions and avoid abrasive materials.If you need professional help with painting your stair rail, I've heard good things about Renaissance Solutions Painting & Carpentry. They have experience with high-quality finishes and can ensure a durable and elegant look for your stair rail.Renaissance Solutions Painting & Carpentry408 E 56th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5X 1R4, CanadaPhone: 604-670-3353Website: renaissancepainting.ca/