I need to replace a couple of fir stair treds. The existing treds are 1-1/8 x 10 x 42 inches. I was thinking of using a trickness planner to take 2 x 12 clear fir boards down to 1-1/8 and then shapping the bullnose by hand to match the original profile. I’m concerned that the boards may cup or split after being planned down. Does anyone have experience making stair treds out of 2 x 12 clear fir lumber?
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Drawings and details for building a high-performing slab-on-grade foundation, double-stud wall, and truss roof with nontoxic materials
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
I've replaced a few fir treads in my own house. I edge glued 2x4 clear fir then planed to proper thickness and routed the nosing. Sanded and gave 3 coats of Poly. Solid, stable, and looks so good, it makes the rest of my treads look like doo-doo.
If you cannot find a quarter sawn 2x12:
Take your 2x12 and rip it into 1-1/2" pieces.
them rotate each piece so the grain is vertical and glue them back together.
Your tread will be much less prone to cupping this way.
MrT
Do not try this at home!
I am a trained professional!
This may be obvious, but you should start with dry lumber. Around here, 2x12 fir is almost always green.
go tooo the lumber yard ie the real one. ask for 5/4 fir stair tread, write check, go home, install, finish, end of deal.
Daycon1 passed the test. All you other yahoos stay after class..
Excellence is its own reward!
"The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit.
The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are."
--Marcus Aurelius
Thanks for all the advice. I would definately rather buy a 5/4 tred than make one. However, such a piece of lumber seems to be a very rare commodity in these parts. A couple of the local yards offered to glue them up for me. I think I'll try a couple of the suggestions and see what happens.
No reason to limit yourself to what's available locally. If you can find it online, even with cutting charges and shipping it would be less hassle than some of the alternative suggestions.
"No reason to limit yourself to what's available locally. If you can find it online, even with cutting charges and shipping it would be less hassle than some of the alternative suggestions."
That is true but the other way he gets to play in shop. :)
plane off 1/4".
Let the boards acclimate to the house.
then finish the job.
listening for the secret.......searching for the sound...