Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/Slippery Slope!

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Expert: - 2/5/2010


Question
Joseph,

  I recently pulled the carpet of of my wood staircase and refinished it. I used a shellac to seal my steps, and now they are like ice. What would have been a better option for sealing them? Is there anything i can do to fix my staircase?

thanx, cat

Answer
I've always used a satin polyurethane on stair treads (same material used on flooring).  I've never dealt with shellac nor do I know a fix.  I would recommend contacting a paint store like Sherwin Williams and find their recommendation.  Sorry I'm not a lot of help here.

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Volunteer

Joseph G. Swallow

Expertise

I can answer all staircase balustrade questions where handrails, newels posts, balusters (wood and metal), and stair treads are concerned. I cannot help with cabinetry and floor (outside of stair-related treads and risers), as well as stain and finish issues unless staircase related.

Experience

30 years in the stair industry. Founder of Hardwood Creations in Southern California and CEO of Westfire Manufacturing, Inc. I was a stair builder for 10 years, both in custom and production housing. Have estimated over 750,000 single family homes and provided materials to lumber yards and builders for 12 years. Was an expert witness in several staircase related law suits in Southern California. Stair codes, installation help, stair handrail and balustrade installation are what I know best.

Organizations
NAHB of Portland, OR. Was a member of ICBO for 9 years.

Education/Credentials
Cal State Fullerton, Cypress College

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