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Hey guys, I'm just wondering what would be the best way to replace these stairs. I'm looking at just replacing the individual stairs.
Not sure what is currently the best approach. To remove them indidivudally.
Thanks heaps!
Hello @KaneoS
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's wonderful to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about repairing your steps.
The replacement steps at the store are called the Willmaplex 240 x 45mm 0.9m Stair Tread H3 Treated Pine Domestic Use - 900mm. The critical part of the repair is how the old steps can be removed without having to disassemble the entire staircase.
I propose measuring your step and see if the replacement set is compatible. Next, I suggest investigating how the old steps are anchored on to the stringer. Check the sides and see if they are screwed or nailed in. Once you are confident of how it's assembled you can then cut the old steps out and slide and anchor the new ones in.
If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.
Eric
Hi @KaneoS,
The stair treads are likely glued and then nailed or screwed into position through the side of the stringer. Check on the outside of the stringer for fixings. If you can't find screws, then this would probably be a case of needing to cut the tread out and then chiselling the remainder of the end of the tread out of the stringer.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
Hi @KaneoS
It believe your list is complete, I propose using Buildex 12g x 100mm 8 TPI Climacoat RapidDrive Treated Pine Screws. However, I suggest having a look at what is being used on the steps and getting the equivalent or next size up.
My best advice is to drill pilot holes on the stringer and steps to prevent them from splitting.
Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your repairs.
Please keep us updated with your progress, we look forward to seeing the start of your timber step revamp project.
Eric
Hey Eric,
I've just removed the stair and this is what the inside of the stringer looked like, I believe it's rotten.
I do think I would have to replace the stringer as well. Do you think that's the only option?
Thanks
Kane
Hello @KaneoS
I'm sorry to hear that the rot has made its way into the stingers step slot. I was really hoping that the stringers would still be in good condition or at least repairable. I suspect that there are parts that still ok but if you have a rotten one at a critical point like somewhere in the centre it would be pointless to repair it.
I'm afraid you'll need to replace the entire set. From a long-term safety point of view, you can at least rest assured that your stair structure is new and dependable. I propose having a look at the Stringer H3 Treated Pine Suits 10 Tread as a possible replacement.
However, I also recommend double checking the Wilmaplex Brochure to make sure you get the correct stringer height.
If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.
Eric
Hello @KaneoS
There is always the possibility that it might be just surface rot and the body of the stringer is still in good condition. The timber hardener you mentioned is great for door and window frames, but it does nothing for structural support. The filler of course makes everything look neat again but offers no support as well.
If you look carefully at the bottom of the stringer, you'll notice that it is supported and anchored at the very end with a post anchor stirrup. All the weight of the stringer is at the bottom end close to the area that has rot on it. In this particular instance, I suggest speaking to a builder and asking them to have a look if the stringer is still strong enough to hold the entire stair set.
At this point, I propose being ready for the possibility that the entire set will need to be replaced. But there is always a chance the builder will say that it's just surface rot and the stringer can be repaired.
If you need further assistance, please let me know.
Eric
