How to Reface Indoor Stairs

Remove the existing stair treads using a pry bar. Wedge the pry bar under each tread and pry it up. If you plan to reuse the existing stair treads, pry carefully to avoid damage to the wood. Mark the bottom of each stair tread if you reuse them so they go back in the same spots.

Measure the size of each stair riser as a guide for cutting the veneer. While the risers should be similar in size, you may find some variation. You'll have fewer difficulties and avoid redoing the cuts if you measure each riser individually.

Wipe the existing riser surface to remove any dust or other debris. The veneer needs a flat, clean surface in order to stick well without any bumps in the finished product.

Cut the wood veneer to size using a utility knife and a straight edge so it fits the riser surface exactly. Remove the backing from the veneer to expose the adhesive.

Place the veneer in position on the riser. Position the piece precisely as you won't be able to reposition it once the adhesive touches the existing riser material.

Secure the veneer to the riser using a veneer scraper, a specialty tool that resembles a paint scraper but is designed for veneer. Start in the middle of the riser and run the scraper horizontally to the outside edge of the riser. Go back to the middle and run the scraper to the opposite outside edge. Move the scraper up slightly to continue pressing down the veneer. You want to run the scraper horizontally over every surface of the veneer working up and down from the middle point.

Sand the veneer if you plan to stain it with the treads. Since it is made from wood, most veneer can be stained. Check with the manufacturer for staining instructions for the specific veneer product you use.

Sand the existing treads if you plan to reuse them. If you purchase new stair treads, sand them lightly if needed. Wipe away any dust remaining on the treads.

Squeeze construction adhesive along the stair stringers that support the stair treads. Position the treads in place. Secure the treads further with finishing nails on each stringer.

Smooth wood putty into the finishing nail holes with a putty knife. Scrape away excess wood putty. Allow the putty to dry completely.

Apply wood stain to the veneer and treads in the desired color. Follow the specific instructions on the stain to get the best finish. Brush polyurethane over the stairs when the stain dries. The polyurethane protects the stairs from wear.