How to Install Stair Treads and Risers Over Existing Stairs
To install stair treads and risers over existing stairs, begin by assessing the number of risers and treads needed and recording measurements of existing treads and risers.
Select the wood species and order the materials, considering standard tread depth of 11-1/2 inches and various widths.
Remove old floor covering and eliminate the bull nose on the exposed lumber tread by cutting it off with a handheld circular saw or jigsaw.
Clean off the edges with a flush-cut saw or hammer and chisel.
For better support, install thicker plywood over existing risers using screws instead of nails to avoid squeaks and ensure maximum riser height of 7-3/4 inches and minimum tread run of 10 inches.
Cut your own risers from pre-primed MDF trim boards, measuring and cutting each one individually for a tight fit.
Install risers with construction adhesive and finish nails.
Measure and cut stair treads individually using a circular saw or sliding miter saw, making sure to achieve a straight 90-degree cut with an angle finder if needed.
Secure treads with construction adhesive and finish nails.
Fill nail holes on the treads with fast-drying wood putty and stain to match, and fill nail holes on the risers with caulk.
Use masking tape to cover seams between risers and skirt boards, then apply caulk to the seams.
Consider prefinished stair treads from Stair-Treads.com as a convenient option, such as their RetroFit line specifically designed to match the thickness of 3/4-inch hardwood flooring.
Each RetroFit tread has a 3/4-inch body to meet code requirements and a full 1-inch bull nose once installed.
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Did You Know?
1. While installing stair treads and risers over existing stairs, did you know that the term “riser” actually refers to the vertical part of the step, while the “tread” is the horizontal part you step on? This distinction is crucial when understanding the process!
2. For a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, craftsmen often select stair treads and risers made from different types of wood. By combining different wood species, colors, and grain patterns, you can create a stunning and unique staircase that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
3. Did you know that in addition to wood, stair treads and risers can also be made from other materials like laminate, metal, or even glass? This can be a great option if you’re going for a contemporary or industrial look, providing an interesting twist on traditional staircases.
4. When installing stair treads and risers over existing stairs, it’s important to ensure they are properly secured. One method is to use special adhesive glue designed for this purpose, providing a strong and durable bond between the new treads/risers and the existing stairs.
5. If you’re looking to add an extra layer of safety and durability to your staircase, consider installing stair nosing along with the treads and risers. Stair nosing is a metal or plastic molding that fits over the front edge of the tread, providing added traction and reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Challenges With Existing Risers
During a remodeling job, one of the challenges that the author encountered was with the existing risers of the stairs. The risers were made of flimsy plywood that had warped over the years. This not only compromised the stability of the staircase but also affected its aesthetic appeal.
To overcome this issue and ensure a solid support for the new stair treads and risers, the author decided to install new, thicker plywood over the existing risers.
- The existing risers were made of flimsy plywood.
- The plywood had warped over the years, compromising stability and aesthetics.
- To solve the problem, new, thicker plywood was installed over the existing risers.
“The author encountered challenges with the flimsy plywood risers during a remodeling job. Warped over the years, these risers compromised both stability and aesthetics. To overcome this, new, thicker plywood was installed, ensuring a solid support for the stairs.”
Installing New Plywood For Support
To ensure stability and security for the staircase, the author made the decision to install new plywood over the existing risers. This step will provide a solid support for the new stair treads and risers for the long term. It is crucial to ensure that the new plywood is thicker than the existing risers in order to offer the required support. This can be accomplished by accurately measuring the thickness of the existing risers and selecting plywood that is of a suitable thickness.
Using Screws For Stability
To avoid any squeaks or creaks in the reconstructed staircase, it is advised to use screws instead of nails. Screws provide a more secure and stable connection between the treads, risers, and stringers.
The author recommends using screws to fix any squeaks in the tread by driving a 3-inch screw through the tread at the squeak location and into the stringers. This ensures that the treads are securely fastened and eliminates any unwanted noise.
To summarize, the key recommendations for avoiding squeaks in a reconstructed staircase are:
- Use screws instead of nails
- Drive a 3-inch screw through the tread at the squeak location and into the stringers
“Using screws for fastening the treads not only provides a more secure connection but also eliminates any potential squeaks or creaks.”
Proper Height And Width Measurements
It is essential to adhere to certain measurements when installing stair treads and risers. The maximum riser height should be 7-3/4 inches, and the minimum tread run should be no less than 10 inches. These measurements ensure the safety and comfort of anyone using the staircase. By following these guidelines, you can create a staircase that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- The maximum riser height: 7-3/4 inches.
- The minimum tread run: 10 inches.
“By following these guidelines, you can create a staircase that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.”
Fixing Squeaks In The Treads
To address any squeaks in the stair treads, the author suggests the following solution:
- Drive a 3-inch screw through the tread at the squeak location
- Tighten the framing
This simple yet effective solution helps eliminate annoying noises and ensures a stable and secure staircase. By fixing the squeaks in the treads, you can enhance the overall functionality and comfort of your staircase.
“To address squeaks in stair treads, drive a 3-inch screw through the tread at the squeak location and tighten the framing.”
Installing Custom Cut Risers And Treads
For a more personalized and precise installation, the author decided to cut their own risers from pre-primed MDF trim boards. This allowed for a tighter fit and ensured that each riser was aligned perfectly. To achieve this, it is recommended to measure and cut each riser individually. This way, you can account for any variations in the size of the existing stairs and achieve a seamless and professional finish.
Risers can be cut to length using various tools such as a miter saw, handheld circular saw, or hand saw. Width can be ripped using a handheld circular saw with an edge guide or a table saw with a rip fence. Once the risers are cut to size, they can be installed using construction adhesive and finish nails. This ensures a secure and sturdy installation that will withstand regular use.
Similarly, each stair tread should be individually measured and cut to length using a handheld circular saw or sliding miter saw. An angle finder can be used to ensure a straight 90-degree cut for the treads. It is important to note that if the stair construction is slightly out of whack, the stringers might affect the angle of the cut for the treads. Therefore, it is essential to take this into consideration and make any necessary adjustments during the installation process.
In conclusion, retrofitting stair treads and risers is a simple and effective solution for DIY’ers looking to enhance the safety and aesthetics of their staircase.
- Measure and cut each riser individually
- Tools for cutting risers: miter saw, handheld circular saw, or hand saw
- Install risers using construction adhesive and finish nails
- Measure and cut each stair tread individually
- Tools for cutting stair treads: handheld circular saw or sliding miter saw
- Use an angle finder to ensure a straight 90-degree cut for the treads
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put new stair treads over old treads?
Yes, it is possible to put new stair treads over old treads by utilizing a simple glue application method. By placing a few beads of glue on the old step and applying some glue along the top edge of the new riser, the new treads can securely adhere to the existing ones. The minimal amount of glue used in this process is more than sufficient to hold the stair treads in place, ensuring a stable and functional staircase.
Are stair treads nailed or glued?
When it comes to securing stair treads, neither nails nor staples should be relied upon as the main method of fastening. Experts advise that a reliable adhesive is the key component in ensuring the durability and stability of the treads. While there may be constraints on the use of fasteners at times, a strong adhesive is essential to maintain the integrity of the stairs. Additionally, it is important to note that using the stringer as a level for the treads is not recommended, as this could lead to irregularities in the stair construction.
What is the rule for stair riser treads?
The rule for stair riser treads depends on the specific regulations set by organizations such as OSHA and IBC. The OSHA standard states that the maximum rise should not exceed 9.5 inches, and the minimum depth of each tread, known as the run, should also be 9.5 inches. On the other hand, according to the IBC, a single stair flight should not exceed a maximum rise of 12 inches. These guidelines aim to ensure the safety and usability of stairs by maintaining a suitable balance between the height and depth of each step.
How can I properly prepare existing stairs for installing new stair treads and risers?
To properly prepare existing stairs for installing new stair treads and risers, there are a few steps you can follow. First, remove the old treads and risers carefully, ensuring that any remaining nails or adhesive are fully removed. Inspect the stairs for any damage or signs of wear and address them by repairing or replacing any damaged sections.
Next, measure the dimensions of each step precisely to ensure accurate cuts for the new treads and risers. Cut the new materials to the correct size, allowing for slight overhang on the treads for a clean and finished look. Apply construction adhesive to the back of each tread and riser, then place them firmly onto the steps, starting from the bottom and working your way up.
Finally, secure the treads and risers in place using nails or screws from the backside of the stairs for a seamless appearance. Fill any gaps or seams with a wood filler and sand the entire surface to create a smooth finish. Finish the job by staining or painting the stairs as desired, allowing for proper dry time between coats.
