Joints of the wooden staircase with silicone

Since I only own existing property myself, Neubauer would have to comment on how to proceed here. It is always said that construction must be carried out according to the generally accepted rules of technology that a builder can expect. Usually, aesthetics and design are not/rarely included (which in this case should nevertheless be punished by practicing the joint for three years). However, if it is meant to cover up that the steps are clearly too short, this can certainly amount to a relevant defect (structural integrity, safety).

What is supposed to happen to the wall? Wallpaper + paint? Then I would completely remove the silicone joints and have them replaced with acrylic, which can then be painted cleanly. A reasonably competent painter will do this much better than the attempts shown here.

That looks really bad :eek:.
How big are the gaps under the silicone seal?
In my opinion, that is unacceptable. The silicone has to come off.
I wouldn’t put silicone or acrylic between the wall and the stair steps.
Both will look terrible after a few years even if you keep painting over them.
If the gaps are not too big, I would leave them as they are.
Alternatively, use wiping or small triangular moldings.
Unfortunately, we faced the same decision. Our steps are also partly not completely straight.
The consideration was actually silicone, acrylic, or fine triangular moldings.
In the end, we left it as is and are happy about it. If the gaps are not too big, you won’t notice after a few months anymore.