Apply Wood Filler to Blemishes

What happens in this clip

Once all fasteners are removed, inspect the wooden stairs for any holes, gouges, or blemishes. Apply a high-quality wood filler (e.g., Elmer's ProBond Wood Filler) to generously fill all these imperfections, including staple holes and areas where tack strips were. Ensure all surfaces are level and smooth. Allow the wood filler to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Goal: Repair and smooth all imperfections on the stair risers and treads.

What's used

Tools

• Spatula (Putty Knife)

Materials

• Elmer's ProBond Wood Filler Elmer's
• Minwax wood filler

About the full video

This DIY project details the complete transformation of an old, carpeted staircase into a modern, visually appealing set of stairs with laminate treads and painted risers. The process involves removing old carpet, prepping the stairs, painting, modifying existing treads, installing new laminate, and reinstalling a painted railing.

Step 8 of 9: Inspect and Repair Stairs

Examine the wood treads and risers for any gouges, splinters, or loose boards. Fill any minor holes or imperfections with wood filler. Address any loose boards by securing them with screws or nails, ensuring they are flush with the surface.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Remove Old Carpet from Stairs

1. Step 1: Secure the Area

   • 0:55–1:00 Prepare and Protect Adjacent Areas
   • 0:55–1:00 Seal Off Entryways
   • 0:26–0:34 Mask and Protect Surrounding Areas

2. Step 2: Loosen Carpet Edges

   • 0:58–1:33 Loosen Carpet from Tack Strips
   • 0:44–2:00 Remove Old Carpet

3. Step 3: Pull Carpet Up and Away

   • 0:21–0:50 Remove the Carpet
   • 0:58–3:40 Cut and Remove Main Carpet Sections
   • 0:44–2:00 Remove Old Carpet

4. Step 4: Remove Carpet Backing

   • 3:40–4:20 Remove Carpet Underpad
   • 0:02–0:09 Remove Carpet and Padding
   • 0:40–1:09 Remove Carpet Pad and Tack Strips

5. Step 5: Remove Padding

   • 2:46–3:43 Remove Carpet Padding
   • 1:00–1:25 Remove Carpet Pad
   • 1:33–1:40 Remove Carpet Padding

6. Step 6: Remove Tack Strips

   • 4:56–5:35 Remove Tack Strips
   • 0:31–0:55 Remove Tack Strips and Staples
   • 1:02–1:12 Remove Tack Strips

7. Step 7: Clean Stair Treads and Risers

   • 0:14–0:23 Initial Cleanup and Debris Removal
   • 0:23–0:26 Clean and Prepare Stairs for Finishing
   • 1:49–2:08 Clean Up Debris

8. Step 8: Inspect and Repair Stairs

   • 0:55–1:21 Apply Wood Filler to Blemishes (this video)
   • 7:20–7:30 Final Touches and Cleanup
   • 0:07–0:25 Inspect and Fill Imperfections

9. Step 9: Dispose of Materials

   • 1:07–1:12 Bag Carpet Sections
   • 7:37–8:39 Roll Padding with Tack Strips for Disposal
   • 3:46–3:50 Dispose of Carpet Debris