How to raise stair treads without removing the stringer?
TinySeedling
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
What’s the best way to raise stair treads without removing the existing stringer? I am renovating a historic home. Aiming to keep the existing stringer to preserve the plaster work attached underneath it.
The goal is to make the stairs less steep. This can be done by raising the treads a few inches here and there, and then adding 2 steps to a hallway.
Is it OK to build on top of the existing steps?
Or remove the treads and risers, and add to the existing stringer to change it’s silhouette?
The staircase is curved towards the bottom so fairly complex.
Attached are pictures- masking tape shows where each tread needs to be raised to.
Many thanks for any input.
Replies
All risers must be equal otherwise stairs will be more dangerous than they already are
Hi, yes, currently the risers are different lengths. I am trying to figure out how to make all the risers the same without removing the existing the stringer.
I can’t wrap my head around how you could raise the last winder any higher. It would end into the window.
Yes, you are right. We are going to remove the window and install a shorter window.
Make sure it’s tempered glass. In that case I’d remove the treads and risers that need adjustment. Fir out the stringer and reinstall. If you’re careful maybe you can reuse the treads. If the elevation changes work shim with full pieces of plywood that go from stringer to stringer.
Thank you! That sounds like an excellent approach. I really appreciate it.