Hello, please forgive me if the pictures don;t load on my first try.. But attached is a picture of my stairs, and I thought this method may save a few headaches for others.. Our existing stairs was basically a crappy pine that was grained to look like oak, and then 15 layers of paint applied over that.. Pretty much a hopeless case. Our options were (1) Live with it (2) tear out and start over (3) give it a facelift.. I went for option #3

The treads were all made at the shop, and tacked over the existing treads.. Making each step a full 1.5" thick (very sturdy)

We took the trim off of the existing posts (so they were just square stock) and make new posts that slip over the old ones.. Tacked up the original hand rail, and made some new slat spindles..

On the skirts, we did a 1/4" oak plywood overlay, and trimmed in 2" oak stock to give a panel look..

We all tend to think in terms of 'total replacement' when all that may be needed is an 'overlay approach' ..

Thanks,


Rob Bennett
House Of Yesteryear

That is a great looking job you've done, and in my mind the best choice. Your stairs are original but with a facelift. How much did you add to the thickness of each tread and do you notice the difference in a couple of places ?

Hello Rob,
I truly think you did a tremendous job and I really like the effect on the skirt board as well as the posts and balusters.

On the outside of the stair case the mission motif is outstanding. and a good use of oak.

My compliments.

Respectfully,

Ralph Jones

Well thank you for the compliments...


On the treads, Ther were 1" before (pine) and I added 3/4" oak.. I edge glued a piece of the end to give me my thickness (for my roundover) and to hide the old tread underneath. I would say with everything in place, the treads are just shy of 2" ... Most new treads are 5/4 (1" and 1/4")

I notice a difference in the strength.. but it still has a few of the squeaks (like an old stairs) simply from the nails holding the old tread in place..

If there are any members that read this, and are considering it.. I am happy to take a few close up shots, and answer any questions (so you know what you are getting in to.. ) I would not call it an easy job by any means.. But I think it is certainly a good alternitave to gutting an old stairs..


I did forget to mention one thing.. The main post, as you walk in the door, was fitted with a cap that can be removed, so a post light can be added at a later date.. I did get the light done, and will be adding it in the next day or so... Since we do plan to sell the house this year or next.. it does give the buyer a way to remove the post light (if unwanted) and replace the top cap on the post...