# Removing Rails From Basement Stairs
Most basement stair rails are attached to a bracket that is screwed into the wall using wall anchors. You may want to remove a basement stair rail to replace, repair or paint it. Since the basement stairs can be a dangerous place in the home, especially for seniors, it is important that the rails do not fall into a state of disrepair. You can remove the rails from basement stairs using a straightforward procedure that requires little time and effort.
Things You'll Need
- Utility knife
- Phillips screwdriver
- Standard screwdriver
Instructions
-
-
1
Cut around the base of the brackets if they were caulked or painted after being secured with their screws. This extra step will ensure that the wall doesn't get damaged when the brackets are removed. Use a utility knife the cut the caulk or paint, taking care not to cut into the drywall or other surface to which the brackets are attached.
-
2
Remove the screws that secure the rail to the bracket starting at the top of the rail. It is usually easier to remove the rail first and then remove the brackets from the wall. Unfasten the screws using the proper type of screwdriver depending on the type of screws used. Have someone hold the rail as you remove the screws to ensure it doesn't fall.
-
3
Unscrew each bracket and remove it from the wall.
-
1
Interior Home Repair
- Removing Paint From a Red Brick Wall
- How to Remove a Mantel From a Brick Wall
- Removing Paneling From a Plaster Wall
- Removing Border Paper From Wall
- How to Remove Wallpaper From Plasterboard
- How to Remove Carpet From a Staircase
- Removing a Wall and Adding an Archway
- How to Remove a Microwave From a Wall Bracket
- Removing Tacks From Stairs
- How to Remove Paint From Exterior Stairs
- Removing Insulation From a Basement
- Removing Grout From a Plaster Wall
