Step 1: Measure the Staircase

The first step in installing hardwood on stairs is to measure the staircase. It's important to measure each stair tread and riser accurately to ensure you have enough flooring for the best flooring project.

Start by measuring the width and length of each stair tread and riser using a tape measure. Then, calculate the total square footage of your staircase by multiplying the width and length of each stair tread.

Finally, add up the square footage of each stair to get the total amount of flooring you'll need for installing hardwood on stairs. Taking accurate measurements at the beginning of the project will save you time and money in the long run.

Step 2: Remove the Old Hardwood Floors

Before installing new hardwood on stairs, it's important to remove any old flooring that may be in place, along with the existing nosing. This could include carpeted stairs with a tack strip, vinyl, or even existing hardwood planks.

Removing old flooring and existing nosing on stairs that will ensure a clean, level surface for your new hardwood floors to be installed on. Begin by using a pry bar or pliers to remove any moldings or trim around the stairs.

Then, use a utility knife or flooring scraper to remove the old flooring material. Be sure to remove all nails, staples, or other debris from the stairs to create a smooth surface. Once the old flooring is removed, vacuum and clean the stairs to prepare for the installation process.

Step 3: Install the Stair Nose on the Stair Treads

The next step in installing hardwood flooring on stairs is to install the stair nose on each stair tread. The stair nose is a molding that goes on the edge of the hardwood stair tread or wooden shims to create a finished look and protect the hardwood flooring from wear and tear over time.

Start by measuring the length of each stair tread and cut the stair nose to fit. Apply wood glue to the back of the stair nose and press it firmly onto the front of the stair tread. Use finishing nails to secure the stair nose in place, making sure to countersink the nails so they are flush with the surface.

Repeat this process for each stair tread, ensuring that each stair nose is installed at the same height for a consistent look and stair runner.

Step 4: Install the Riser and Tread Piece

With the stair nose installed, you can begin installing the actual hardwood flooring on stairs. Starting at the bottom of the wooden staircase itself, measure and cut the first riser and tread pieces to size, using a saw to make precise cuts.

Apply a thin layer of construction adhesive to the back of each piece and press it firmly onto the stair, making sure it's flush with the stair nose with no excess adhesive. Use finishing nails to secure rounded edges of the pieces in place, making sure to nail at an angle to avoid hitting the edge of the piece above.

Repeat this process for each riser and tread piece, working your way up the staircase until you reach the top. Double-check your measurements and cuts as you go to ensure a precise fit.

Step 5: Cut and Trim the Hardwood

After installing the hardwood flooring on each stair, you'll likely need to cut and trim the wood to fit the unique dimensions of your staircase. This may involve cutting the flooring to fit around corners or edges, or trimming the flooring to fit precisely against the stair riser.

Start by measuring the space where the hardwood needs to be cut or trimmed, then use a saw to make precise cuts. Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges or corners. Make sure to use safety goggles and a dust mask when cutting and sanding the hardwood.

Repeat this process for each stair until all pieces fit snugly and securely on stair steps.

Step 6: Sand and Finish

With the best flooring installed and trimmed to fit your staircase, it's time to sand and finish the wood. Sanding the hardwood will help create a smooth surface and remove any rough spots or imperfections.

Start by using a coarse grit sandpaper to remove any high spots or bumps, then move to a finer grit sandpaper to create a smooth finish. Once the sanding is complete, you can apply a stain or sealer to the hardwood to protect it from wear and tear over time.

Apply the stain or sealer evenly using a brush or roller, then allow it to dry completely before applying a second coat if necessary.

The post How to Install Hardwood Flooring in a Staircase appeared first on Supreme Flooring.

We wish that question were straightforward, but sadly it’s not. The cost of stair installation varies significantly because it is dependent on the material and construction type.

To help answer the question, "How much does it cost?" we will discuss the approximate costs of different parts of your new staircase and the cost of the entire staircase depending on its style.

The Different Parts of Stairs & Their Cost

To help get to the bottom of the cost of your new staircase, we disassemble stairs into their main parts, discussing the approximate cost of each piece. Keep reading below to estimate your interior staircase installation cost.

Steps

The steps on your staircase are made up of two components: tread and risers.

Tread

Stair tread is the upper horizontal area where you put your feet when ascending or descending a staircase. There are many options for your tread including wood, metal, and concrete. Wooden steps are the most affordable per square foot.

• Concrete stairs: A concrete staircase will cost approximately $300 per step.
• Wood stairs: The cost of wooden stairs depends on the type of wood you select. For example, red oak costs approximately $60-$120 per step, whereas maple costs $60-$90 per step. The wood stain can also factor into the cost.
• Metal staircases: Stainless steel staircases run at approximately $200 per step.
• Marble staircases: Custom stairs made out of marble typically cost $100 to $120 per step.

Risers

Risers are vertical boards or sections of the step. They help connect and support successive treads.

Most interior staircases use the same material for tread and risers. However, floating stairs will not have any risers whatsoever.

Nosing

Nosing is the protruding part beyond the riser. It’s typically rounded to give an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the treads. Nosing can also make most interior stairs easier to use.

Nosing will cost approximately $3-$5 per foot. Make sure to add the cost of nosing to your staircase cost unless you are making a glass staircase or a stone staircase.

Stair Railings

Staircase railings provide extra security and safety with each step. You can hold onto the railing as you descend the staircase, holding on for more balance. Whether they are railings or wall-mounted handrails, they help decrease the risk of falls and can make your home a safer place.

There are various types of railings that you can choose from for your staircase remodel. Here are some examples and what you can expect to pay for them:

• Glass railing: Glass is an aesthetically pleasing choice for your railing, but it will cost quite a pretty penny. The average glass staircase cost is $130 per linear foot.
• Wood railing: Wood railing is the more affordable option for your renovation. Wood costs approximately $10-$30 per linear foot.
• Wrought iron stair railing: Wrought iron is a timeless choice for your staircase railing. It will cost approximately $100-$350 to install an iron railing on your new staircase.

Costs For Custom Staircase Designs

There are many staircase styles to choose from. We have included the approximate installation costs of various main staircases without labor costs. Other factors may affect these costs, such as whether the contractors remodel the old stairs or replace the staircase.

• Straight staircases: A straight staircase is one of the most common designs for interior stairs. It will cost you approximately $700-$1,500.
• Floating staircases: If you are looking to make a statement with floating stairs, you can expect to have to pay for it. The approximate floating staircase cost is $2,000-$5,000.
• Spiraling staircases: If you want to make a statement with a grand spiral staircase, you will have to be ready to open your wallet. A spiral staircase can cost approximately $1,600-$4,000.
• L-shaped stairs: Installing stairs that are L-shaped will cost approximately $900-$1,800.
• Curved staircases: A arched or U-shaped staircase will be a grand main staircase in your home, leading elegantly from one level to the next. U-shaped stairs will cost approximately $1,200-$2,000.
• Winder stairs: These stairs curve around the walls surrounding the staircase and are narrower on one side than the other. The purpose of these stairs is to fit them in a narrow room. You can expect to pay approximately $2,000-$5,000 for a winder staircase.

Install Stunning Hardwood Stairs In Your Home

Supreme Flooring has over 25 years of experience in staircase renovation. We have worked with a wide variety of stairs, including straight stairs, arched or curved stairs, and spiral staircases. Our experience and expertise make us the right choice for your renovation. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can remodel your existing staircase. We also provide free, no-obligation quotes!

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