Looking to update your staircase? Learn about retrofitting stair treads by covering old ones with new wooden treads or carpet stair treads. Discover how this process can affect the height of each step and how it can give your stairs a fresh new look.
So, can you put new stair treads over old ones?
The answer is YES!
What is Retrofitting Stair Treads?
Stair retrofit: how to cover stair treads involves covering old, worn-out treads with new ones to give your staircase a fresh new look. This process can be done using wooden treads or carpet stair treads, depending on your design preference and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
There are several reasons why homeowners consider retrofitting their stair treads. It could be to update the look of their staircase, to add finishing touches to a renovation project, or simply to address the wear and tear of the existing treads. You can also retrofit stair risers, to update the look of your staircase.
Can You Put New Stair Treads Over Old Ones?
Yes, you can put new stair treads over old ones. This process can save time and effort compared to completely removing the old treads and installing new ones. It's a big job to remove old stair treads, especially if they are firmly attached. Retrofitting allows you to update the look of your stairs without the hassle of a complete overhaul.
To put new stair treads over old ones, you will need the following materials:
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New stair treads (wooden or carpet)
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Adhesive felt paper
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Access cord
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Nails or screws
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Hammer or drill
How Retrofitting Affects Step Height
Retrofitting stair treads can have an impact on the height of each step. When you add new treads over the old ones, it can increase the height of each step. This change may not be significant, but it's essential to consider, especially for safety reasons.
If the increase in step height is a concern, there are potential solutions to adjust the step height after retrofitting. This may involve making adjustments to the risers or seeking professional assistance to ensure that the steps meet building codes and safety standards.
Retrofitting with Wooden Treads
Using wooden treads for retrofitting offers several advantages. Wooden treads are durable, easy to maintain, and can complement various interior design styles. Here are the steps for retrofitting with wooden treads:
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Measure the dimensions of the existing treads.
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Cut the new wooden treads to the appropriate size.
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Apply adhesive felt paper to the back of the wooden treads.
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Place the wooden treads over the old ones and secure them with nails or screws.
Retrofitting with Carpet Stair Treads
Carpet stair treads are another popular option for retrofitting. They can add warmth, comfort, and style to your staircase. Here's a step-by-step guide for retrofitting with carpet stair treads:
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Measure the dimensions of the existing treads.
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Cut the carpet stair treads to the appropriate size.
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Apply adhesive felt paper to the back of the carpet treads.
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Place the carpet treads over the old ones and secure them with nails or screws.
Conclusion
Retrofitting stair treads is a practical and cost-effective way to update your staircase. Whether you choose wooden treads or carpet stair treads, this process can give your stairs a fresh new look while considering the impact on step height. Always ensure to follow safety guidelines and building codes when retrofitting your stair treads.
