Stair services we provide
Stairs are often the first place a home shows wear, and they are visible from the main living areas. We handle the staircase as part of a floor project or on its own.
- Sanding and refinishing existing hardwood treads
- Replacing cracked, split or damaged treads
- New risers, including painted risers for contrast
- Removing carpet and installing hardwood treads and risers
- Nosing, landing and transition details that match the floors
- Refinishing handrails where wood is exposed
Why stairs are detailed work
Each tread has to be sanded largely by hand or with detail tools, and edges, nosings and corners take time. Treads must be secured to stop movement and squeaks, and the stain must be matched so the staircase looks like it belongs with the floors around it.
Carpet-to-hardwood stair conversions
Many homes have carpeted stairs over construction-grade treads that were never meant to be exposed. Removing the carpet usually reveals tack strips, staples and treads that are not suitable for finishing. In those cases we install new hardwood treads and risers rather than trying to refinish what is underneath.
Safety and care
Matte and satin finishes are less slippery-looking and hide wear better than gloss. Stair runners can be added after the finish has cured. Keep treads clean of grit, which wears finish fastest on stairs.
Common questions
- Can you match new stair treads to my existing floors?
- Yes. We match species where possible and use custom stain so treads and floors read as one color.
- Can carpeted stairs be changed to hardwood?
- Yes. After removing the carpet we usually install new hardwood treads and risers, because the original treads underneath are often not finish-grade.
- Can stairs be refinished at the same time as the floors?
- Yes, and it is usually the best approach so stain and finish match. Stairs may add time to the project schedule.
Related services
Further reading and nearby areas
Where we work
Prospect Hardwood Flooring of Maryland is based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, and serves communities across the state, including Annapolis, Severna Park, Arnold and Gaithersburg, plus the rest of Anne Arundel and Montgomery counties.
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We measure, check your subfloor and moisture levels, and give you an itemized estimate with no obligation.