When installing hardwood flooring on an existing set of stairs made of softwood what is the proper installation method? Is it OK to cut the nosing off the softwood tread and install hardwood nosing on top of the remainder of the existing softwood tread using staples and glue or do you have to install a new set of stairs so that the hardwood treads are routered into the runners? The stairs in question are enclosed on both sides and not accessible from below. What does the Ontario Building Code say?
Answer:
Because building codes are minimum standards, I pay no attention to them and do not know what their demands are. I would remove the bull nose from the treads and if there are no squeaks in them, go ahead with the installation of the hardwood. Neither should you need too much in the way of nails. Glue and air driven fasteners should do a nicer job.
