Replace Broken Steps

Tools:

power drill
circular saw
hacksaw blade
gloves
clamps
combination square
hammer
nail set
finishing nails
pry bar
pliers

1. Look for old, recycled lumber to use as new lumber will stick out like a sore thumb when used on an old staircase. Check with salvage and recycling companies for old lumber.

2. Use the hammer and pry bar to slowly pry up the step just enough to expose nails connecting it to the riser (figure A).

3. Use a hacksaw blade to cut through the nails connecting to the riser (figure B). If the hacksaw doesn't fit into the gap just use the blade, but protect your hands with heavy work gloves.

4. Cut through nails connecting the back of step in the same way. Pry up any trim that further binds the piece into position. Lift the damaged step pieces out.

5. Place the damaged step pieces onto new lumber and trace the shape (figure C).

6. Use a circular saw to cut the edges and a hand saw to cut out any special notches that fit around any molding (figure D).

7. Place wood into position and measure the distance from the edge of the step to the beginning of the riser using the combination square (figure E). Add half the width of the riser to the measurement to ensure that nails go into the center of the riser. Adjust the combination square to make marks along the top of the new steps.

8. Drill pilot holes before driving in finishing nails. This prevents the riser and the new piece from cracking, and gives the nail a path straight down.

9. Drive nails through pilot holes connecting top step piece to riser. Use a nail set to drive the nails beneath the surface.

10. Wash off new pieces with mineral spirits to bring out the grain of the wood and to remove any pencil marks.

11. Repeat procedure for any other damaged steps.