Step for a stairway and method for making same

Abstract

A method is provided for manufacturing or converting a stairway made from wood-composite materials to a stairway which appears for all intents and purposes to be made from architectural solid wood materials. The method contemplates providing one or more stair treads and risers interconnected on one or more support stringers. This assembly may be preexisting or constitute new construction. With the stair treads and risers in place, sheets of veneer overlay are provided which are scribed and trimmed to cover at least the end portions of each tread, riser, or both, leaving the central high traffic portion of the tread exposed. Once trimming is complete, the veneer overlays are adhered to each tread or riser. With respect to the stair treads, it is preferred that a portion of the veneer is rolled around the leading edge of the tread and fastened to the underlying surface. Any irregularities or gaps in the joints between the treads, risers, and veneer may be concealed behind strips of molding. Additional trim pieces are provided where the ends of the treads are opened or exposed, as opposed to being concealed between walls and/or trim stringers. The invention also provides for a kit for making a staircase appear as if it were made from architectural woods as well as the staircase including these components. Portions of the stairway where the composite wood materials remain exposed may be concealed by carpet runners or the like.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.