Remove Old Carpet and Treads

What happens in this clip

Begin by thoroughly removing all existing carpet from the stairs and landings. Use pliers, a pry bar, and a utility knife to lift and cut the carpet and padding. Once the carpet is removed, use a staple remover to extract all remaining staples from the stair treads and risers. Next, carefully remove the old wooden stair treads. This can typically be done by prying them up with a pry bar, being mindful not to damage the underlying stringers or framing. Remove any nails or fasteners left behind.

Goal: Clear the staircase down to its basic framing

What's used

Tools

• Pliers
• Vice grips
• Pry Bar
• Flat bar
• padding
• and old stair treads.
• Staple Remover
• Utility Knife

About the full video

This project details the transformation of an old, carpeted staircase into a beautiful hardwood staircase. It involves removing the existing carpet and treads, precisely measuring and installing new risers and treads, laying matching hardwood flooring on the landings, and finally sanding, staining, and applying a durable topcoat for a polished, long-lasting finish.

Step 1 of 6: Remove Old Treads and Risers

Begin by removing any carpet or other floor covering from the treads. Use a pry bar and hammer to carefully loosen and remove the old treads. Work from the front edge of each tread, prying upwards to detach it from the riser and stringer. If the risers are also being replaced, remove them after the treads are off. For stubborn treads, you may need to cut through any nails or adhesive with a reciprocating saw. Ensure you are working safely, wearing appropriate safety gear.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Modernize a Dated Staircase with Rails, Lights and Treads

1. Step 1: Remove Old Treads and Risers

   • 1:39–2:35 Cut Tread Fasteners & Remove Old Treads
   • 0:01–0:09 Remove Old Carpet and Treads (this video)
   • 0:05–0:08 Remove Old Stair Components

2. Step 2: Inspect and Repair Staircase Structure

   • 0:00–0:13 Assess Existing Stairs and Planning
   • 0:09–0:14 Repair and Prepare Stair Structure
   • 3:59–6:57 Replace Damaged Stair Treads or Risers

3. Step 3: Install New Treads and Risers

   • 6:45–8:03 Install New Treads and Secure with Shims/Glue/Nails
   • 9:53 Install New Treads
   • 0:06–0:09 Install Treads and Risers

4. Step 4: Install New Balusters and Handrails

   • 5:36–6:05 Install Balusters and Handrail
   • 0:23–0:31 Install Oak Handrails and Metal Balusters
   • 3:35–4:17 Install Balusters and Fillets

5. Step 5: Sand and Finish Treads and Handrails

   • 0:20–0:25 Sand and Finish Treads
   • 0:37–0:45 Sanding the Stairs for Smoothness
   • 0:15–0:17 Sand the Stairs

6. Step 6: Install Stair Lighting (Optional)

   • 0:01–0:04 Apply LED Strip Lights to Treads
   • 7:31–9:55 Install LED Lighting and Treads
   • 0:00–0:19 Install Flexible LED Strip Lighting