Due to some misleading investigation at the top of the stairs, started tearing off what I thought was just a notched skirt.
I stopped when I realized this was actually a mortised stringer. Does the amount of material I removed here above the stair treads lend some structural integrity to the stringer, or would I be okay piecing back together the top of what I have removed and leave it in place? I would then repair the squeaky treads by removing the drywall underneath the stairs instead.
Thanks!
Replies
Yes, what you tore off affects the integrity of the stringer. How much so, depends on several factors. These are a few I can think of. If you answer them, maybe someone with some structural knowledge will be able to provide an answer.
How much of the stringer did you tear off? How deep is the remainder of the stringer? How is the stringer supported, e.g., just top & bottom, or nailed/screwed to studs along it's length?
My guess is you're buggered. Remember stair integrity is a major safety issue. Not just for one person at a time, but for multiple people, crews carrying furniture or building supplies, etc.
BZ,
You should have no problems. When you get the underside open you will be able to discern if that’s true or not. While the whole carriage shows fasteners above the treads, the critical fastening is below. Add fasteners below as necessary.
Squeaks? Each riser should be glued and screwed to the tread, if not...add screws.
During the heating season most likely the wood is shrunk down and you might be able to tighten things up.....
You’re fine - stringer is still solid behind the treads and risers, probably 1/2”-5/8” thickness (looks like sheetrock comes down on that portion in the photo but double check for it anyway). Also the tread/riser connections are still providing a minor additional support - enough for what little you ripped off.
If you’re still worried - and if you are under there anyway - tack up a nice looking ledger under the stringer’s edge for more support.