Asked on Apr 08, 2018
Stairs coming away from the wall in old house - help!
by
Karen
+1
The house was built in 1897. The stairs have lasted for generations. Now they are coming away from the wall. We put up some 2” x 6” stilts with brackets as a temporary fix. Now I want to know if the diy community has some advice, or should I call in a pro for the big bucks? Thanks!
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Hi Karen, here is a link that seem to specialize in old houses, and issues with stairs! Hope this helps! https://www.oldhouseonline.com/articles/repair-stairs
If you want to keep the house with the original stairs, call in someone to restore it. Restoration can be expensive, make sure you get a contract spelled out what will be done. Also you can call a carpenter to fix it. Google Home Advisor, to find someone in your area to do the work. These professionals are screened, and you'll find different prices for the same job.
You might be able to secure each step to the wall using an "L" bracket and screws. Attach each bracket to the bottom of the step and the wall. If you have sheetrock you need to use a wall anchor. You also need to brace the steps against the wall while attaching the brackets.
Is the house shifting on the foundation ? Sometimes the house is pulling away from the stairs vs the stairs pulling away from the house.