The ballisters, newel posts and handrails were in disrepair and were reconstructed with computer-matched parts.  The finish is Minwax dark walnut and four coats of hand-rubbed orange shellac.  The wood panels replicate quarter-sawn oak with a faux finish called country graining.  This was achieved using a mix of burnt umber and apple cider vinegar over two coats of an oil-based paint applied with blue-steel graining combs and graining rollers.  This was the inspired work of artist Dan Mulligan, Chester, NJ.