Refaced Staircase with Segmented Tread and Riser
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for refacing residential staircases are either expensive, require skilled labor, or result in staircases that are not code compliant, with visible fasteners and complex installations, making them impractical for DIY and prone to altering the rise/run and tread depth.
Innovation Solution
A method involving installing replacement treads over existing treads and risers, with the replacement tread overhanging the original tread by the same distance and the replacement riser extending from the tread with shims to maintain the original rise/run, allowing for easy installation and compliance with building codes, using pre-finished, pre-cut components to simplify handling and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If new treads are placed over the existing treads, then labor cost is reduced and installation is simplified, but the staircase no longer complies with building codes due to altered rise/run or tread depth
Solution Approach 1:
The replacement stair component is segmented into a tread portion and a riser portion that are detachably connected. This allows the tread to be installed over the existing tread while the riser portion is positioned against the existing riser, maintaining proper rise/run dimensions for code compliance while keeping installation simple
Solution Approach 2:
The riser portion acts as an intermediary element between the replacement tread and the existing riser. It maintains the correct vertical dimensioning and provides a mounting surface for fasteners, ensuring code compliance while enabling simple installation over existing stairs
2Ease of operation
If the replacement riser is attached to the original riser below the original tread, then installation is simplified, but the rise/run of the refaced staircase is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The riser portion is pre-configured with predetermined thickness and dimensions that are calculated to maintain the correct rise/run ratios. This preliminary preparation ensures that when installed, the staircase meets building code requirements without requiring complex measurements or adjustments during installation
3Ease of operation
If fasteners are installed from the upper side of the replacement tread, then installation is simplified, but the fasteners are visible and aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is extracted from the visible tread surface and relocated to the riser portion. Fasteners are installed from the side or back of the riser portion, removing them from the aesthetic field of view while maintaining simple installation procedures
4Strength
If the replacement tread and replacement riser are formed as an integral piece, then structural strength is improved, but the apparatus becomes bulky to transport and handle
Solution Approach 1:
The replacement stair component is divided into separate tread and riser portions that can be transported and handled independently. These segments are then assembled on-site through detachable connection, achieving the structural strength of an integral piece while maintaining the handling advantages of separate components
Data Source
AI summary
A refaced staircase having original treads and original risers with replacement treads and replacement risers is disclosed. A replacement riser extends down from each original tread, and a replacement tread is placed over the original tread and overhangs the replacement riser. The replacement tread preferably includes a scotia facing the original tread that hides the seam between the original tread and the replacement riser.