This is how to efficiently remove all types of stair covering

Are you planning to renovate your staircase? Good choice! When renovating a staircase, we fit new stair treads over the existing steps. Before our fitters can get to work, the old stair covering must be removed. The best way to do this depends on the type of covering and how it is fixed in place.

Is your staircase currently covered with carpet that has been glued down? If so, there are two types of adhesive you might come across:

• Water-based adhesive (white glue) – you can loosen this with soap and water, or even with cola. Leave the solution to soak in and then carefully peel the carpet away. Any remaining residue can be removed in the same way.
• Synthetic-based adhesive (yellow adhesive) – for this, you will need a special adhesive remover. Always start in a corner and work the carpet loose bit by bit using a screwdriver. Take care not to damage the wood underneath.

Tip: work from top to bottom and from the top of the step to the bottom. This is the most efficient way. Small traces of adhesive can be left in place; they will be hidden by the new step covers.

Sometimes floor coverings are not glued down but fixed with nails. In that case, you simply need to remove the nails. Pull the covering loose and remove the nails using a claw hammer, crowbar or pliers.

Has the staircase been both nailed and glued? If so, once you’ve removed the nails, you’ll still need to remove the glue using the methods mentioned earlier. It’s double the work, but don’t worry: the surface doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth.

With over 25 years’ experience and more than 80,000 staircases renovated, Upstairs is the leading specialist in staircase renovations. Our skilled craftsmen install top-quality stair tread covers, finished with the unique Upstairs Original Top Coat. Scratch-resistant, hard-wearing and easy to maintain – ensuring your staircase is not only beautiful, but also durable and safe.

Would you like a staircase that will last for years to come? Book a consultation or visit one of our showrooms to discover the possibilities.