Replies

1. 
   JohnWW | Jun 27, 2006 07:22pm | #1

   Unless it is a very simple installation it is almost impossible to install prepainted stairs without scuffing up the finish or having to cut through the paint for precise fitting.  Typically a prime coat and possibly the first finish coat is applied prior to installation, with the expectation that one or more additional coats will be applied after the installation is complete. 

   Prepainting components while they are separate is usually a lot more convenient than painting an assembled stair and railing assembly, so prepainting usually saves a fair amount of time and tedious work. 

   John White, Shop Manager, Fine Woodworking Magazine

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   Edited 6/27/2006 3:00 pm ET by JohnWW

   
   

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   Edited 6/28/2006 10:12 am ET by JohnWW

1. 
   bymco | Jun 28, 2006 04:10pm | #2

   Paint on the spot with special coating or just normal spray or brush? Are there any modern methods to deal with this situation, you know, this will make our house very dirty and smells terrible.

1. 
   JohnWW | Jun 28, 2006 04:23pm | #3

   Water based latex paints are relatively low odor, certainly better than oil based products.  Paints can be brushed or sprayed, but spraying of course requires more equipment and expertise to do properly.  Brushing shouldn't create a mess if done with reasonable care.

   There are several small makers of paints that are especially low emission and low odor.  I have seen them advertised in alternative and natural lifestyle magazines, but I don't have any direct experience with them.

   John W.

1. 
   bymco | Jun 29, 2006 06:15pm | #4

   Do you have any information of popular stair companies who have good market share and advanced technologies? LJ smith stair system is a big one?

    

    

1. 
   JohnWW | Jun 29, 2006 06:43pm | #5

   I always built my own stairs and I've been out of the construction business long enough that I don't know much about current manufacturers.  If you went to the Fine Homebuilding website you can post this question on their "Breaktime" forum and get some knowledgable replies.

   John W.