Cut Tread Fasteners & Remove Old Treads

What happens in this clip

After removing the scotia molding, position a long metal cutting blade (such as a reciprocating saw blade) between the underside of the tread and the stringer. Carefully cut through the nails that fasten the tread to the stringer, taking care not to damage the stringer or any surrounding components. Once the nails are cut, use the pry bar to lift the tread from its position. Repeat this process for each tread that needs to be replaced. Understanding that the treads are typically joined to the risers using a rabbit and dado joint (where a tongue on the tread fits into a groove on the riser) helps in anticipating how they will separate.

Goal: Cut the nails securing the stair treads to the stringers using a long metal cutting blade, then pry up and remove each old tread from the staircase.

What's used

Tools

• Long Metal Cutting Blade
• Pry Bar
• Reciprocating Saw

About the full video

This video provides detailed instructions on how to update an old, noisy, and discolored oak staircase by replacing the worn treads and resurfacing the risers. The process involves carefully disassembling the existing stairs, preparing the structural components, custom-cutting new oak treads to fit irregular spaces, and applying an oak veneer to the risers for a refreshed, modern look. The project focuses on improving aesthetics, reducing noise, and extending the lifespan of the staircase.

Step 1 of 6: Remove Old Treads and Risers

Begin by removing any carpet or other floor covering from the treads. Use a pry bar and hammer to carefully loosen and remove the old treads. Work from the front edge of each tread, prying upwards to detach it from the riser and stringer. If the risers are also being replaced, remove them after the treads are off. For stubborn treads, you may need to cut through any nails or adhesive with a reciprocating saw. Ensure you are working safely, wearing appropriate safety gear.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Modernize a Dated Staircase with Rails, Lights and Treads

1. Step 1: Remove Old Treads and Risers

   • 1:39–2:35 Cut Tread Fasteners & Remove Old Treads (this video)
   • 0:01–0:09 Remove Old Carpet and Treads
   • 0:05–0:08 Remove Old Stair Components

2. Step 2: Inspect and Repair Staircase Structure

   • 0:00–0:13 Assess Existing Stairs and Planning
   • 0:09–0:14 Repair and Prepare Stair Structure
   • 3:59–6:57 Replace Damaged Stair Treads or Risers

3. Step 3: Install New Treads and Risers

   • 6:45–8:03 Install New Treads and Secure with Shims/Glue/Nails
   • 9:53 Install New Treads
   • 0:06–0:09 Install Treads and Risers

4. Step 4: Install New Balusters and Handrails

   • 5:36–6:05 Install Balusters and Handrail
   • 0:23–0:31 Install Oak Handrails and Metal Balusters
   • 3:35–4:17 Install Balusters and Fillets

5. Step 5: Sand and Finish Treads and Handrails

   • 0:20–0:25 Sand and Finish Treads
   • 0:37–0:45 Sanding the Stairs for Smoothness
   • 0:15–0:17 Sand the Stairs

6. Step 6: Install Stair Lighting (Optional)

   • 0:01–0:04 Apply LED Strip Lights to Treads
   • 7:31–9:55 Install LED Lighting and Treads
   • 0:00–0:19 Install Flexible LED Strip Lighting