How to install stair treads & banisters or replace them?
Question:I have a home built in 1915 & stairs & no banister that need replacing i baught new treads , banister rail & polls & they are not the same & they do not make the type that were there what do i do now ?
Answers:
Your best bet is to start from scratch as trying to match what you originally had may be extremely hard to find anddefinitely expensive to have it duplicated. As to where to start, if you are pretty handy, buy a book on finish carpentry from Lowes or Home Depot, one that is well illustrated and with good instructions. If you feel than that is out of your scope of ability I would recommend a good trim carpenter. In a house of that age nothing will be square, plum or true causing a lot of heartache and money. It will most likely involve a fair share of scribing and shimming and custom cutting that you may not have the ability or patience for. If you have the ability, tools and money to take it on yourself, best of luck to you, if not leave it someone who does this every day. Also be prepared to pay good money for a good trim carpenter, after all, you get what you pay for..
hire a carpenter or do some serious reading, stairs & railings are a tough project for a homeowner, if your asking what do do next hire a pro.
God Bless
Bob is right. I just replaced the treads and risers in our house, and it is not a project for the faint of heart. I've been doing construction since I was twelve (35 years ago). You need to have someone who knows how show you how to do it, or you need to be prepared to make mistakes (i.e., spend money) learning how to do it yourself.
If this is a one-time project for you, your cheapest option is to hire a carpenter.
In a home that is 90+ years old, don't trust anything to be level or square.
I would need to assess the situation before typing a book. Use the old parts, buy gorilla glue and follow directions on bottle, re-assemble parts with some water and that glue.
IF part are too damaged and can not be reused. then you need to hire a professional. I am one and can not just type all the possibilities out. sorry, there are too many variables and steps.
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