Replacing Carpeting on Basement Steps with Oak Stair Treads

The carpeting on the stairs to our finished basement is very worn and soiled.  We have tried cleaning it over the years without much improvement, due to the nap being very compressed.

We've hired a wood flooring company to replace the carpeted steps with oak stair treads.   We were offered two options from different companies.   One company quoted doing retro stair treads that are designed to cap the existing treads.  The treads would then be finished in place. The second company quoted putting actual stair treads over the exist treads and adding a scotia.   The treads would be finished before being attached to the exist treads.

In both cases, we would be responsible for painting the risers and stringers after the treads were installed.

Tearing out the current steps and rebuilding new staircase was considered and discussed with another company.  However, they explained they only work with contractors who would do demolition prior to installation.  Thus, much more complex and costly.

We decided to go with the putting actual stair treads, instead of retro stair tread caps for mainly one reason.  The polyurethane was applied offsite and would be cured before being brought into the house.  Thus, less odor from from the finish which would be less respiratory discomfort for the family.  

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This is not financial nor remodeling advice. Please consult a professional advisor.

Copyright © 2025 Achievement Catalyst, LLC

Repairing Instead of Replacing Windows

Our 35 year old windows are original and solid wood.   The sashes are in still good shape, no rot.  However, some of the sills and nose had warped.   In addition, the windows were slightly askew when opening and when closed.

We got an estimate on replacing all the windows with aluminum clad wood windows and composite doors.   The estimate was only for replacing the window sashes and liner, but not the window frame, which results in a slightly smaller window opening.  The cost was expensive, about 15% of the purchase price of the house.

To be honest, I really like the feel of solid wood windows.  My first house was 100 years old with original windows. the ones with counter weights and ropes.

Instead we worked with three different business (two of them sole proprietorships):  one repaired window sills, one repaired sashes and window glass in the doors, and one that repair the mechanisms.   Total cost 5% of replacing windows and doors or 0.75% of the cost of the house.

At 1/20 the cost of replacing windows, we decided to do the repairs option.  The repairs have been completed and we are very satisfied.  Admittedly, it took more effort to find the craftsmen that did the work, which I did through referral.  But it was worth it, for both the quality and savings.

For more on Ideas You Can Use , check back every Tuesday for a new segment.

This is not financial nor maintenance advice. Please consult a professional advisor.

Copyright © 2025 Achievement Catalyst, LLC