The type of stair tread used in your stair has a direct correlation to the degree of difficulty of the installation process.  Here are some basic tips to make it as easy as possible.

The most important element in stair installation is adhesives.  I have found polyurethane construction adhesive to be a superior product when installing treads.  Nails or screws only hold the tread in position while the glue sets.  The glue is attachment strength in stair assembly.

The mitered return tread is the easiest to install.  Simply cut the tread  1/8” to ¼” long to allow for scribing to the skirtboard.  Set your scribe or scribe block to the exact space between the mitered return and the open side skirtboard.  Then scribe the tread along the wall side skirtboard.  Cut to your mark and you have a perfect end joint.

Whenever possible, remove any temporary treads so you can have access to the back of the riser. 

Apply a liberal amount of polyurethane construction adhesive to the stringers, wall skirtboard, and to the face of the riser where the tread will be attached.

Place the tread in position and nail into the stringers,  then run screws through the back of the riser into the back of the tread.  This closes any gap at the back of the tread and creates a super strong application.

Plain treads for a wall to wall (or curb skirt to curb skirt) application,  present a bit more of a challenge.

Wall to wall treads require (2) scribe joints, one at each end.  Unless you have advanced carpentry skills the easiest way to approach this is with a template.  Simply make a template of the tread location with a piece cardboard or lightweight wood.  Once you have the template scribed to fit exactly where you want it, trace the template onto the tread, cut it to your lines, and you are ready for placement.

To make it easier to install, back cut a bevel of about 1 degree on both ends of the tread.  If you have a tight fit, this will allow you drop one end into position and then slide the other down into place.  It also allows for a space where the construction adhesive can expand and bond. 

Apply your adhesive to the stringers, both wall skirtboards, and the riser.  Drop the tread into position and nail to the framing.  Run screws through the riser into the back of the tread.

The new RetroTread replacement tread is installed in the same manner as the plain tread.  Since the RetroTread is designed to be installed over the top of an existing tread, the nosing of the existing tread will need to be cut off flush with the face of the riser.  If the existing tread is 1-1/2” thick, a new riser face will be needed to cover the portion of the tread that isn’t covered up by the RetroTread.

Tread installation requires a basic level of carpentry but the results are well worth the effort.

Ed Trimner - www.stairpartpros.com

The business atmoshere here in SW Forida is finally improving and thigs are happening. If you didn’t prepare for the upswing, you may have missed the boat.

As we get busier and the work load increases, job efficiency is essential. No more procrastination or slacking off.

You will need to get more work done in less time and hire more people only when it is necessary.

We are all happy to get back to work. Many of us have learned a great deal about performance and productivity and will be much leaner as we move forward into the new era.

But keep in mind that the market has turned the corner and is moving ahead. There is no room for slackers here.

Ed Trimner
www.stairpartpros.com

Stair remodeling has just become easier with a couple of new prodiucts.

The new RetroTread was developed to allow replacing the old carpet on your stairs with great looking hardwood treads.

It has a built-in trim under the nosing for a superior finished look.

It is available on our site along with the other standard treads. 

I have other new products to update on our site including the Transformer System.  The system is designed to replace existing wood balusters with new iron balusters.

I will be writing soon with complete descriptions and installation instructions.

It is finally getting warmer here!!  Yes, it does get cold in SW Florida, at least to us.  The work climate is heating up also.  It is time to get ready to apply your “controlled” growth plan.  Now is the time to replenish inventories while the prices are down.  There will be material price increases soon (supply and demand).  Plan your personnel growth as well.  Training your new people can be more effective and thorough when you have the time and patience to do it properly.  I remember what it was like here five years ago.  Any warm body that walked in the door was put on a job.  I don’t ever want to see that again.  Controlled growth is a way to maintain quality and retain profits through better training and gradual expansion. 

Ed Trimner

StairPartPros.com

In this economic downturn, we as business owners, have an oportunity to get back to the basic principal that has sustained us through these slow times… Customer Service!

“Customer Service” is a catch phrase that has been used so frequently that it has lost all meaning.  However, as our workload has lightened,  we are afforded more time to focus on our customer’s needs and give them the attention they deserve. 

Three years ago, customers were put on a 6 month waiting list to get anything built, and the Housing Industry (at least in south Florida) lost much of its integrity through greed and exploitation of the public trust.  Those of us who refused to compromise our values, are left with an opportunity and obligation to start rebuilding that public trust and restore the integrity of our profession.

A happy customer is a perfect way to promote a positive image for your business.  The best way…Customer Service.

Give your customer the time and assistance they need to make the decisions that they will be pleased with for years to come.

Customer Service.

Ed