Table of Contents
How do you finish an unfinished staircase?
Steps to Refinishing Your Stair Treads: Sand. Start by sanding down the treads to bare wood with the 80 grit sandpaper. Clean. Vacuum between passes, then wipe down the treads with a tack cloth. Sand again. Clean again. Treat the wood. Stain the treads. Apply the Finish. Sand, then repeat two more times.
What do you cover basement stairs with?
The 2 best solutions for basement stairs are: 1) carpet and 2) hardwood/wood…or even better a combo of these two – wood plus a carpet runner. What is this? Now, if you have concrete steps, I would just recommend doing carpet. It is the easiest, safest and least expensive option.
How do you make old basement stairs look good?
If you like the look of basement, you don’t have to cover up your stairs at all. Instead, try painting or staining or stain your existing stairs to give them a like-new appearance. First, though, it’s important to sand the stairs down and get them very clean.
How do I make basement stairs more inviting?
For safety reasons, make it a priority to upgrade or replace flimsy basement stairs. You’ll likely want to close open wooden steps with risers and possibly carpet to create an inviting entrance to your underground haven. Don’t build onto existing steps, unless the wood is good and the construction is sound.
What varnish is best for stairs?
Polyurethane Varnish – a clear water based polyurethane varnish is the simplest to use. Apply it with a brush but bear in mind it dries quickly so make sure you work fast. The second coat can be applied within 24 hours and it dries to a hard and durable finish.
What do you cover unfinished stairs with?
Stair tread covers, or stair overlays, are handy products for improving the look and the slip resistance of existing stairs. Tread covers go right over the old step treads—the horizontal board that you walk on. Some covers also conceal the old step risers—the vertical boards between the treads.
Can you put marmoleum on stairs?
Marmoleum® can be installed on stairs, however it is NOT recommended to be wrapped on stairs. The substrate must meet all the requirements set forth in the Substrate Evaluation & Preparation section of the Forbo Installation Guide. A stair nosing must be used with an individual piece of Marmoleum® for each stair.
How do you cover concrete basement stairs?
To cover over concrete stairs, run a line of carpet from top to bottom. When covering wood stairs, fairly narrow strips of carpet are typically run down the center portion of the stairs, leaving bare areas on each side. For concrete stairs, cut the carpet to fit edge to edge.
How do you stain basement stairs?
How To Stain Stairs In 5 Steps Prepare The Area. Move anything near the stairs away. Prepare The Stairs. Determine if you need to use a chemical stripper to remove the stain. Read Directions On Stain Container. Directions can be slightly different from stain to stain. Apply 2 Coats Of The Stain. Apply 2 Coats Of Varnish.
How much does it cost to redo basement stairs?
The national average cost to install a basement staircase is $1,100 to $3,200, with most homeowners paying around $2,100 for a 12-step wooden staircase with a wood handrail. A short, wooden, straight staircase without a handrail can cost as little as $960.
Do basement stairs need support?
Yes, the stringers need to be supported along their length, but they can span a few feet too, depending on 1) the width of the stairs, 2) the number of stringers, and 3) size of riser board. 1) The wider the stair the more load will be transferred to the stringers.
How do you use an unfinished basement?
The best way to make your unfinished basement feel complete is by adding accents and decor just as you would to any other room in your house. In addition to the basement ideas above, like hanging string lights and adding area rugs, bring in other details that will add warmth, texture, and ambiance.
What is a false stair tread?
False Tread and Riser Caps are used to give the appearance of Solid Treads with a carpet runner going up the center of the staircase but without the expense. Tread End Caps go on the open side of a stair typically where the balusters will be.
Should I stain or varnish my stairs?
Varnishes tend to be more durable and are better for a higher gloss finish if this is desired/required. Oils are better if a more natural appearance is required and are easier to maintain if they start to look worn over time.
Can I use interior varnish on stairs?
Ideal for use on all interior wood, including doors, windows, skirting, panelling, sills and banisters. A clear, water-based floor varnish suitable for any low to medium traffic wooden floor. Easy sanding, non-yellowing and no primer needed. A polyurethane varnish for use on all interior wooden flooring and stairs.
