If you want to install laminate stairs, this article will help you do just that. It will cover the installation process, precautions, and plank thickness. Then you can move on to the gluing process. Here are some tips to make the job go as smoothly as possible. Regardless of the type of stairs you have, laminate flooring will give them a beautiful, long-lasting look.
Installation
Before you can begin installing laminate stairs, you need to prepare the staircase. If the stairs were previously covered in carpet, you will need to strip old paint and repair loose steps. You can use nails or staples to secure loose steps. Also, you need to make sure the stairs are level. Use a belt sander to level the stairs. You can also use a scraper to remove loose debris and a jigsaw to trim off the overhang. A chisel should be used to make sure the surface is flush with the riser.
Precautions
If you are installing laminate flooring on your stairs, you must first prepare the subfloor. Before starting the installation, you should sand off any high spots and clean up any debris. This will help create a level surface for the laminate planks to sit on. Once the subfloor is level, you can start installing the planks. Make sure to wait until the glue dries before moving on to the next step.
Plank thickness
One of the first steps to installing a new staircase is determining the plank thickness. Measure the height of the tread and riser from the bottom to the top and then subtract the thickness of the riser from the width of the tread. For example, if the original measurement is 11 1/2 inches, then the tread should be 11 1/8 inches. Similarly, if the plank thickness is 3/8 inches, the tread should be 11 1/8 inches.
Glue
If you’re refinishing your stairs, you’ll want to make sure to use the right glue for laminate stairs. Wood glue is a good choice for laminate assemblies. However, you’ll want to look for PVA type II glue for laminate stairs because it contains less moisture than typical wood glue. This will help create a more secure bond between the laminate and the stairs’ wood surface. This glue will help prevent warping and cracking.
Measurement
If you’re looking to install a set of laminate stairs, you’ll need to know the proper measurement of the riser and tread. Measure the riser first, then subtract the width of the tread from the measurement of the riser. If the riser is three inches wide, the tread will be eleven 1/8 inches wide. Once you know the exact measurements, you can cut the steps and risers accordingly. To install steps, follow these instructions.
Noise
If you want to install laminate flooring on your stairs, be aware that you won’t be achieving floating floor installation. But if you want to minimize sound transmission, you can also install 15mm thick acoustic plasterboard underneath the stairs. This will prevent airborne noises from reaching the steps. Listed below are some other methods you can use to minimize noise. If you can’t afford to replace your existing laminate stairs, consider the DIY alternatives.
Cleaning
There are several methods that you can use for cleaning laminate stairs. Using a rag soaked in warm water will get rid of stubborn stains, but you may need to use detergent or an ink remover if the stain is particularly deep. You can also use acetone nail polish remover if the stain is made of shoe polish or tar. If you have scuff marks, a pencil eraser will work for these, too.
