Old Manhattan Stairs

[hihofink]

Hi,

Our stairs used to look like this (in fact this is an upper floor)

Now they look like this

how would you recommend i restore our steps? What type of wood should i use? Any details will be much appreciated.

Thanks so much

Josh

 

[hihofink]

Hello,

I have been given two types of proposals for this job.

1. Very Expensive, but replace Riser, Banisters, Stringers, and Treads.

2. Less Expensive, put new oak step over existing step (shave nose so not viewable).

Is option 2 a reasonable option or should i be replacing the steps and risers completely.

Also, are there different grades of Oak, is there a specfic Oak that is recommended?

Thanks

Josh

 

[marshman]

you could restore them by having them shot blasted, that would bring them up like new but it would fill the house with dust.
as its a lower floor can you seal this area off totally.

 

[Symptoms]

Josh - assuming that you will strip-off all the old varnish/paint using mechanical, as well as chemical means, what you are left with is the carpentry solutions.

Assuming the tread surfaces are only slightly worn (difficult to tell from the photos) then the least disruptive method of repair is to cut off the nosings flush to the risers - a router then finish the corners with a handsaw. Attach new nosings with biscuit joints and glue.

If the tread surfaces are too far gone, then replace as in your option 2. However, in the UK this wouldn't be possible 'cos of the regulations (all risers have to be the same height and the top one wouldn't be); maybe in the States your codes don't cover this so you could 'get away with it'.

 

[hihofink]

Josh - assuming that you will strip-off all the old varnish/paint using mechanical, as well as chemical means, what you are left with is the carpentry solutions.

Assuming the tread surfaces are only slightly worn (difficult to tell from the photos) then the least disruptive method of repair is to cut off the nosings flush to the risers - a router then finish the corners with a handsaw. Attach new nosings with biscuit joints and glue.

If the tread surfaces are too far gone, then replace as in your option 2. However, in the UK this wouldn't be possible 'cos of the regulations (all risers have to be the same height and the top one wouldn't be); maybe in the States your codes don't cover this so you could 'get away with it'.

treads are pretty worn - indents of over 1 cm - someone could definetly trip. i assume its legal - i will check with code. thank you for your help.

what does it mean to be shot blasted?

 

[marshman]

what does it mean to be shot blasted? pregnant girlfriend, angry father, shotgun.

small grained material that is fired using compressed air to clean.