FHB # 168 “tricks for finishing stairs”
The article is from the aspect of a finnishing carpenter. The framing guys have put in a temporary stairway and have used 2 X 12 for the tread. Since the rough framing is 2X lumber the rise and run are already set
The author removes the 2X material and replaces it with 1/2 ply and 1″ oak tread matching the old tread of 2X keeping the rise uniform.
My question is I have a tempory stairs going up just 4′ . I had planned to cut new stringers. (made some errors on the orginals)
It seems a shame to toss the old 2 X 12 treads. Why not glue and nail (finish) the oak tread to the 2x and just adjust for the 2x when cutting the new stringers.
The article has the author glueing and nailing (finish) to 1/2 ply
any thoughts
Replies
One critical factor is the finished floor thickness at both landings, below and above the stairway. This will affect the actual rise of each step, which cannot vary more than 3/8", IIRC. As you build on top of each tread, the rise on the stairway remains constant, but the rise at the bottom step becomes larger, and the rise at the top step decreases accordingly. Therein lies the problem with your suggestion, in most cases.
"...an open mind is a powerful thing. The ability to listen to others is invaluable."
Jim Blodgett
I had planned to cut new stringers....
I don't see any inherent problem, as long as Huck's points are addressed with the new stringers -
Make sure your existing treads are flat (as is the new oak) so things don't rock or squeak -
If you are going to cut new stringers anyway just go ahead and plan for a 1" thick tread. We always put the oak on the stringers with some adhesive and finish head trim screws. Lately we have been cutting oak plugs to fill the screw holes. Looks great when done and no squeaks.
It certainly will not hurt to put the 2x12 on first but you don't need to and it cuts more out of the stringer and makes them weaker. Maybe you can find another use for the 2x lumber.
James