DIY Stair Makeover | Ugly Carpet to Updated Laminate Stairway

Moments in this video

1. 0:31–0:55 Remove Tack Strips and Staples From How to Remove Old Carpet from Stairs, Step 6: Remove Tack Strips

   After removing the carpet, carefully pull off all the tack strips from the risers and treads. Next, use a hammer and pliers to remove all the remaining staples embedded in the wood underlayment and along the edges of each tread. This is a tedious process, as there can be numerous staples on each stair. The video shows using both a hammer claw and pliers for this task.

2. 0:31–0:55 Remove Tack Strips and Staples From How to Get a Hardwood Look on Carpeted Stairs, Step 2: Remove Staples and Nails

   After removing the carpet, carefully pull off all the tack strips from the risers and treads. Next, use a hammer and pliers to remove all the remaining staples embedded in the wood underlayment and along the edges of each tread. This is a tedious process, as there can be numerous staples on each stair. The video shows using both a hammer claw and pliers for this task.

3. 0:55–1:21 Apply Wood Filler to Blemishes From How to Remove Old Carpet from Stairs, Step 8: Inspect and Repair Stairs

   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.

4. 0:55–1:21 Apply Wood Filler to Blemishes From How to Get a Hardwood Look on Carpeted Stairs, Step 9: Fill Nail Holes and Gaps

   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.

5. 1:21–1:35 Sand and Clean Stairs From How to Get a Hardwood Look on Carpeted Stairs, Step 10: Sand Repaired Areas and Final Surface

   After the wood filler has dried, sand all filled areas smooth and flush with the surrounding wood surface. Use an orbital sander or sandpaper for this task, ensuring a smooth finish. Once sanding is complete, use a tack cloth to thoroughly wipe down all stair surfaces, removing all sanding dust and debris to prepare for priming and painting.

Guides that use this video

• How to Remove Old Carpet from Stairs
• How to Get a Hardwood Look on Carpeted Stairs