Entries by Stair101

Is pine or oak better for stairs?

Pine vs. Oak for Stair Treads: Making the Right Choice for Your Home Summary: When it comes to selecting the ideal wood for your stair treads, both pine and oak present compelling options, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Oak, a hardwood, boasts superior durability and a classic aesthetic, making it well-suited […]

How hard is it to change a newel post?

How Hard is it to Change a Newel Post? A Step-by-Step Guide While replacing a newel post might seem daunting, it’s a surprisingly manageable project for those comfortable with basic DIY skills. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process, outlining the steps involved and highlighting key considerations for a successful outcome. Summary: Changing […]

Can you use plywood for stair risers?

Can You Use Plywood for Stair Risers? A Comprehensive Guide While the simple answer is yes, you can use plywood for stair risers, there’s much more to consider than just slapping any sheet of plywood on your staircase. This guide dives deep into the nuances of using plywood for stair risers, covering everything from material […]

What color should stair risers be?

What Color Should You Paint Your Stair Risers? Summary: While the traditional bright, glossy white is a popular and safe choice for stair risers, offering a clean and classic look that complements most interiors, it’s far from the only option! The ideal color for your stair risers depends on various factors, including your home’s architectural […]

Should stair risers be painted or stained?

Painting vs. Staining Stair Risers: Choosing the Right Finish Summary: While both paint and stain can enhance the appearance of stair risers, the best choice depends on the desired aesthetic, the existing staircase design, and the level of maintenance desired. Painting offers versatility in color and finish, while staining highlights the natural beauty of wood […]

What size wood to use for steps?

Selecting Lumber for Stair Treads: Finding the Right Size and Type Summary: Choosing the right wood for stair treads involves considering both dimensional requirements and wood species. For dimensional stability and load-bearing capacity, treads should typically be constructed from lumber that is at least 1 ⅛ inches thick and have a minimum width of 10 […]

What goes first the tread or the riser?

Building a Staircase: Tread First or Riser First? Summary: In typical staircase construction, the tread is installed before the riser. This sequence provides crucial support for the riser and ensures stability. However, certain design choices or specific construction methods might necessitate a different order. Understanding the interplay between treads, risers, and the overall staircase structure […]

How do you make stair risers look good?

Elevating Your Staircase: Creative Ideas for Stair Risers Summary: Stair risers offer a blank canvas for design, adding visual interest and personality to your home. Beyond simple decals, a range of options like paint, tile, wood veneers, and wallpaper can dramatically enhance your staircase. When choosing a design, consider your home’s overall style, safety regulations, […]

What kind of nails to use for stair risers?

Selecting the Right Nails for Stair Risers When constructing or renovating a staircase, choosing the appropriate nails for attaching the stair risers is crucial for ensuring a secure, durable, and aesthetically pleasing result. While various types of nails exist, finish nails are generally the preferred choice for stair risers due to their holding power, discreet […]

Should stair risers be glued?

Gluing Stair Risers: Adding Strength and Reducing Noise Stair risers, the vertical boards between each step, are typically attached to the staircase stringers using nails or screws. But should you also use glue? While not always strictly necessary, gluing stair risers can offer several benefits, contributing to a stronger, quieter, and more durable staircase. The […]