Inspect and Fill Imperfections

What happens in this clip

Begin by thoroughly inspecting all surfaces of the hardwood stairs for any damage, such as holes, cracks, or gaps between wood pieces. Once identified, apply wood filler directly into these imperfections. Use your fingers or a trowel to ensure the filler is pressed firmly and completely into the gaps, creating a smooth and even surface that will be ready for sanding once dry.

Goal: Repair any damage or gaps in the hardwood stairs.

What's used

Tools

• Trowel
• Spatula

Materials

• Wood Filler

About the full video

This project guides you through the process of properly finishing hardwood stairs, covering essential steps from initial inspection and repair to sanding, staining, and applying multiple protective clear coats. It emphasizes meticulous preparation and correct application techniques for a durable and aesthetically pleasing result.

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
   • 7:20–7:30 Final Touches and Cleanup
   • 0:07–0:25 Inspect and Fill Imperfections (this video)

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