Welcome to the latest DIY home renovation project! In this post, the transformation of a set of outdated, carpeted stairs into a modern and stylish feature of a lakehouse is detailed. The process involved removing old carpet, repairing the wood, and installing new laminate treads — all steps that turned this space into something fresh and beautiful.

Step 1: Removing the Old Carpet

The first task was to remove the plastic runner and old carpet. Removing carpet from stairs is a challenging job, especially because of the numerous staples and tack strips that hold it in place. The process can be labor-intensive, but it’s necessary to create a clean surface for the new design.

Once the carpet was removed, all the tack strips from the risers and treads were pulled off, and the staples were carefully removed. Afterward, a lot of imperfections were left behind, requiring some attention.

Step 2: Filling the Blemishes

With the carpet removed, the next step was to fill in the holes and blemishes left behind by the staples and tack strips. High-quality wood filler was applied to these imperfections, and once the filler dried, it was sanded smooth. The area was then wiped down with a tack cloth to remove any sanding dust, preparing the surface for priming.

Step 3: Priming the Wood

A high-quality primer designed for hard-to-coat surfaces was used to create a solid base for the final paint. This particular primer is excellent for high-traffic areas, providing durability and ensuring that the final finish would hold up over time. The primer was applied to the risers and treads, providing a good foundation for the paint.

Step 4: Painting the Risers

To add a modern touch to the stairs, the risers were painted black, which complemented the overall aesthetic of the space. The walls were also painted a soft beige, creating a cohesive look that flowed throughout the space. The decision to paint the risers black helped give the stairs a sleek, contemporary feel, while the beige walls added warmth to the area.

Step 5: Removing and Repainting the Stair Railing

The stair railing, which had originally been designed to go around carpet, was removed and given a fresh coat of spray paint. This step helped make the railing look brand new, matching the newly updated stairs. Proper ventilation was ensured during the spray painting process, and a respirator was worn for safety.

Step 6: Cutting the Treads

The next step involved cutting the new laminate stair treads to fit the stairs. A jigsaw was used for this task, but it didn’t produce the cleanest cuts. The process resulted in a few scuff marks and uneven edges. In hindsight, a router or circular saw would have been a better choice for a more precise and smooth finish.

Although the last tread turned out well, the earlier cuts required some fixing. For anyone attempting this project, it’s recommended to use the right tools, such as a circular saw, for better results.

Step 7: Fixing the Cuts and Painting the Sides

Once the cuts were made, the sides of the treads were painted black to hide any imperfections from the previous cuts. Since these sides wouldn’t be touched often, there was no need to prime them, making the black paint an effective and quick solution.

Step 8: Installing the New Treads

The new treads were installed using construction adhesive. A zigzag pattern of adhesive was applied to the back of each tread, and then the treads were flipped over and pressed into place. To ensure they stayed in position while the glue dried, the treads were taped down. The adhesive took about 12 hours to fully set, so it was important not to walk on them until they were completely dry.

Step 9: Reinstalling the Railing

Once the treads were secure, the stair railing was reinstalled. Holes were pre-drilled through the laminate treads, and screws were used to anchor the railing. To complete the look and provide additional stability, silicone caulk was applied along the seams where the treads met the risers and the wall. This not only helped hold the treads in place but also gave the stairs a neat, polished finish.

The Final Look: Before and After

The transformation was remarkable. The stairs, once covered in outdated and worn carpet, were now modern, sleek, and stylish. The new laminate treads complemented the flooring in the rest of the lakehouse, creating a cohesive flow throughout the space.

The stair railing, which had originally been designed to accommodate carpet, was refreshed with a coat of paint, giving it a renewed, polished appearance. The final result was a set of stairs that looked brand new, adding a fresh, modern touch to the home.

Conclusion

This DIY stair transformation proves that with a bit of elbow grease and the right tools, it’s possible to completely revamp an outdated feature in the home. The project was a success, and the stairs now look modern and in line with the rest of the home’s renovation. The process involved a lot of patience, attention to detail, and the use of high-quality materials, which resulted in a finished product that truly stands out.

For anyone looking to take on a similar project, it’s important to choose the right tools and take the time to do the job carefully. With the right approach, any outdated feature can be turned into a stunning focal point.