Unusual corner moldings on stairs in old house

Lori Jackson
by Lori Jackson
We discovered the shadow of some unusual moldings in the corners of the steps on our stairs in a 100 year old house. Appears to have been triangular--almost like a bit of a triangular prism with the one corner fitting tightly into the stairs. Has anyone seen similar moldings and be kind enough to share a photo?
  6 answers
  • Are you talking about under the steps? Or on top exposed when you walk up them? Corner blocks are common under the steps. These were often used to simply keep the steps from moving. In most cases they were glued into place in order to keep the step from squeaking. its not uncommon to find that they are missing as the glue failed they simply fell off and got thrown away. On the top of the steps, under the lip of each step is also common as a decoration and reinforcement of each step. Many times these are removed by the people that install carpet so they can tuck the carpet under each step and create a tight sharp edge. Nothing unusual about them.
  • Michelle Thompson Michelle Thompson on Jul 25, 2014
    Lori, I live in a house that was built in 1832. I have some triangular metal pieces of which you speak on my stairs too. I don't believe they offer any type of support, just decorative.
  • Lori Jackson Lori Jackson on Jul 25, 2014
    These would have fit into the corners on either side where the tread comes into contact with the riser and the baseboard. Michelle, my husband thought they might actually have been intended to keep dust out of the corners. I would love to see a picture.
  • Michelle Thompson Michelle Thompson on Jul 25, 2014
    Lori... Will absolutely post a pic...
  • Michelle Thompson Michelle Thompson on Jul 25, 2014
    Lori your hubby may be correct... Was thinking of asking a lady at the historical society since I live in a historic home...maybe she can give some insight
  • Michelle Thompson Michelle Thompson on Jul 25, 2014
    Lori your hubby is correct. Just posted pic of corner piece in the 'ask/post' section