Expert: Dave Johnson - 10/16/2007

Question
The stairway drywall has a space between it and the treads. It was covered by carpeting. I took the carpeting out. I want to hide the gaps by running a (reverse stringer) board up the stairway. It would  look like an upside down decorative stringer. Can I do the complex cut out with a jig saw? Is there another solution to this problem of careless workmansip. I  don't want to tear  out the stairs.

Thank You

Answer
Hi Dolores,
Yes, this can be done with a jig saw.
You'll need to make a pattern, which is no easy feat.
Hopefully the treads are far enough from the drywall to allow a board (3/4") to slide in.
Then the only critical cuts will be the risers making the patterning easier.
TAKE YOUR TIME! lol   use short piece to start and learn from any mistakes.
Best of luck,

Dave