New slab on existing treads?
Q: I am looking at replacing my carpet covered stair treads with the oak slab treads. The existing treads are 1 1/2″ thick pine. Can I remove the treads and risers and replace with new? If I place the new treads on top of the existing ones the stair steps will not be the same highth on the top and bottom steps. Should I use a thinner, 1/2″ or 3/4″ thick tread with a 1″ lip? Also how difficult is it to remove the existing treads and risers? I am an experienced woodworker so I can make any type of tread I need to.
A: You are correct that putting a new slab on top of the existing treads will put the bottom and top treads, possibly out of code, with the bottom one being higher and the top lower. I am a floor refinisher/installer. Not a staircase expert. However, if you have access to the rear of the stair case, you should be able to remove the treads, which should be held in place with wedges. The typical thickness of slabs now, I think, is 1 1/8, which would leave a gap in the slot which is in the stringer. I guess you could get any thickness made if price is no object.
Send to a friend