Those pix help a LOT! Good job! The main (obvious!) cause is structure-movement, as PG suggests. * Most of the cracking, being ON the caulking, implies a few things...wrong/cheap caulking, cheaper paint, bad/no prep. * Even top-notch Latex paint has its stretch-limit though... * All old caulking needs to be scraped-out completely. I'd maybe lightly scuff-sand those top edges of the stringer/wall-edge too. This will provide a better grip for the NEW primer & caulk. * Prime the stringers. Apply caulk when primer dries. Apply 2 coats new paint when caulk has cured-out. * I'd suggest Sashco's "Big Stretch" series of caulks. Just get the White. It's paintable when cured. >>> NOTE...Your paint WILL crack long b4 this caulk reaches ITS limit! Good luck, Faron

Something that I did is to sponge paint or texture sponge my transition color over the top of bottom half of wall-just make a line following your steps about 30-36" down nice and straight- use frog tape to make it perfect-then continue with your second color to rest of the basement. also keeps finger prints and marks to a minimum as the folks and children who use the stairway will not be noticeable. Don't have to have a fit when they touch the wall (!) Folks in general don't seem to love sponge painting idea anymore but I get compliments all the time on my transition paint job in the stairwell. Good-luck to you with whatever solution you choose!

Glad to see this post. I was not going to mention it on your other post because you didn't ask an opinion about the stair spindles or banister. Irks me when unsolicited advice is given! So, the trim on your fireplace wall doesn't bother me as much as the wood spindles on your staircase. I'd paint the spindles a cream to match your bookcases/mantle. Since we can't see your floors, I am not sure how much darker they are than your railing and newel post. You can always dry rubbing a darker stain on those. Maybe a gel stain? For the wall...As others mentioned over on the other thread, I think all you need is accessories on your mantle. You may not even need to lower the artwork.

Wallpapering seems daunting. Here are two pics of my staircase. (Second one won’t post, but there is a small window at the top of the stairs) Until I can replace them, I plan to paint the wood rails Benjamin Moore, Kendal charcoal, which is the same color as our kitchen cabinets. To the right, when you walk in is the staircase and to the left an open living room with these curtains hanging. (See link below) To give an idea of my colors. I have lots of green in the hosue as well, its my favoite! https://www.houzz.com/products/signature-everglade-teal-blackout-velvet-curtain-single-panel-50x96-prvw-vr~132701761?lid=65582148