Hi Peter.
My next project is replacing our stair treads (construction lumber-carpeted) with red oak that I’m milling and gluing from rough red oak. I plan to cut, finish and replace each tread on at a time as we use these stairs ALL the time. What’s the best filler to use, and will a polyurethane floor finish be right? I don’t really want nail holes in a finished tread, so what are your thoughts on using construction adheasive to attach the treads to the stringers?
Thanks for your time,
Steve
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Concerning your question on filler, I'm assuming you mean paste filler ( correct me if I'm wrong) You really don't need to use filler on a stair tread.
For a good durable finish, consider using McCloskey Gym Seal. It is tough, durable and easy to re coat as required. It's on the yellowish side so take that into consideration. You can tint it a little using some japan color which is an oil paint. Mix a little with some mineral spirits and a little varnish, then slowly stir it into your varnish. I've done this with some raw umber ( a greenish brown) and had good success. You could also use burnt umber ( a warm chocolate brown )
I did the floors in a house I used to live in with Gym Seal. The finish was six years old when we sold the place and everyone marveled that the floors " had just been refinished"
There are other floor finishes out there. Check with local supplier of floor finishing products for some other ideas.
I can't tell you for sure if construction adhesive is the best idea, but you should check with one of the other experts.
Good luck,
Peter Gedrys
Thanks for the help. I'm glad to hear I don't need paste filler. I'm all for anything that will make the job less complicated. That' one less opportunity for me to screw up.
Thanks again.
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