Transforming a Tuscan Eyesore in the Center of the Home to a Modern Showpiece
By Sabrina Bennardo, LCSW
When we bought this townhome we knew that one of the first things that had to go was the staircase. We had a vision for our staircase renovation and the best team to help bring it to reality. Here’s how it went down.
STAIRCASE RENOVATION: BEFORE
I knew the perfect engineer Frank Bennardo, PE for this job who also happens to be my husband. We have a passion for these type of projects were we combine our skills together. He handles the technical side, as I call the guts, while I handle the design and make it pretty. Together we relish in the glory.
This was an 8 week process from start to finish. It would have taken half of the time if the talented teams we used were not as busy. Always worth the wait for the best!
STEP 1 – DEMO DAY!!!
(My favorite next along with paint day)
House already looks and feels more modern without the posts.
STEP 2 – CUSTOM WOOD POSTS INSTALLATION
STEP 3 – REMOVAL OF CURVED EDGE OF TREAD TO SQUARE OFF
.jpg)
STEP 4 – CARPET REMOVAL & SANDING OF WOOD
STEP 5 – STAIN SELECTION
This is possible! With qualified experts, such as Paul at Kingdom flooring, you can achieve these staircase renovation results. He recommended they bleach the wood for 24 hours and it was well worth the time and extra investment to get the red out.
This was the most difficult,since I knew the color I wanted to achieve and none of the samples below were it. The goal was to make RED oak wood look like WHITE oak in a driftwood color tone.
Final Stain Selection: Weathered Oak by MinWax and Loba 2K invisible wood finish gave it the pure matte finish we wanted to achieve.
STEP 6 – GLASS INSTALLATION
We selected a 1/2″ Fully Tempered ANSI Z97 safety rated glass which was installed in a notch created in the top & bottom rail. The glass is lifted into the top notch which is deeper than the bottom notch & dropped into place forming a secure bite top & bottom.
STEP 7 – PAINTING & CAULKING
Expertly done by PhD Painting with meticulous preparation and precision.
STAIRCASE RENOVATION: THE BIG REVEAL
We are thrilled with the final results and are very appreciative of the hard work and effort by the entire team to make this happen!
Built and Installed by: ANSCHEUTZ ALUMINUM https://anschuetzaluminum2.business.site
Wood Stain by: Kingdom Floors of Boca http://wood-floors-refinishing.com
Paint by: Phd Painting https://phdpaintingpros.com
In Summary - Reminders
There are strict building codes that govern the life safety requirements for railings. From the allowable spaces between pickets, railing height, grabrail specifications, as well as the required horizontal and vertical loading requirements (with factors of safety) that govern the design.
This railing was designed by structural engineering professionals and permitted with the city to meet these codes. We strongly advise to seek professional consultation when designing and installing a life safety device such as a railing or stair rail. Engineering Plans is happy to review your request and provide guidance if needed.