New stair case, newel posts and handrails advice please!!

[wayneward25]

Hi we are going to be replacing a stair case and removing the old one.

It is a straight stair case swap and the new staircase will have colonial balusters and newel posts.

Can anybody please advise on the pros and cons of mdf or timber treads and which overall will be a better option as we are on a tight budget but also dont want problems later down the line.

Can anyone recommend any manufacturers online that deliver in the uk please.

Finally what are the best fixings to use for the newel posts and handrails as there seem to be quite a few options available.

Thanks in advance

 

[big-all]

mdf is ok if its covered as it has no grain so if you will ever want to varnish rather than carpet do not use mdf

 

[wayneward25]

I've heard that Mdf can fail over time and that the treads can creak when walking on them?