Hi — Quick question about framing the open side of my basement stairs after I open them up for a remodel job.
My goal is to open them up and then install a newel post and balusters running all the way down to the treads.
My question is: Do I need to replace the existing treads and risers with wider ones?
I THINK I should frame the new wall to be level with the stringers and then install new risers and treads with some reveal. Is there a standard reveal to use?
Thanks…
Replies
If your stairs were factory-built closed stringer, you may have a real hard time getting them apart without damaging the stringers. You'll have to re cut the one on the open side and then install your new treads and risers. The overhang is typically 1", and should be the same at the riser and the side skirts.
If it were mine, I'd probably just order new open stairs, assuming you can get them in the house and there aren't any obstructions to installation. Or start from scatch, the labor involved in dissecting your steps will be more than the effort to construct new framing. Or build a knee wall to just above the top of the stringer, cap it with oak or pine, and install the railing system on that. A little more contemporary than I like, but certainly the most expedient.
I looked into doing exactly what you're talking about. And was talked into what the pictures show. Couldn't be happier with the results.
Hey kgregor4 -- Yes, that would certainly be easier and is what TomRocks recommends above. Yours look pretty good too. Do you have any pics of the construction process?
Tom -- My stairs are not factory built.. I think I could get them apart, but I certainly would ruin a lot of finish work already complete on the inside of the closed stair. I agree the look of a totally open stair is superior, but kgregor's added moldings make the easier option attractive too.
I have never installed newel posts, spindles, or railing. Can anyone suggest a brief article detailing the joinery, specs, etc?
You've been thinking about this project for at least 6 months now.
Without casting any aspersions here, the questions you've just posed suggest to me that this might be a project you'd be better off engaging someone else to tackle.
If you'll still determined, seek examples of the parts and joinery at a local lumber yard. Probably not the big box places. Not far from me N.A. Mans has a showroom with several examples. Short flights (3-4 steps) of open / closed / with landings. And a great selection of the various profiles (Handrails / Balusters / Newel Posts / track and spacers etc.) that can be easily assembled.
Good luck whatever you decide.
I guess I should have started a new post...
Ok, so my day job interferes with my hobby. I started working on finishing the basement a while ago. I opened up the stairs successfully back at the framing stage and am now doing the finish carpentry.
I just need a picture of how the parts go together.
Spend some time at this web site:
http://www.coffmanstairs.com/