These steps were really getting me down. And the up wasn't too great either. As we got settled into the house, David started talking about 'flipping' them. I nodded in agreement, not letting my complete lack of architectural understanding get in the way of supporting his plan. I would follow him around as he pointed at walls and talked about 'runs' and 'rises'.
I did understand that the stairwell was steep,cramped and had a dangerous switchback at the top. There was an awkward solid plank 'banister' at the top, leading into the cramped and narrow hallway. Turns out, all you need is a weekend, a few crowbars and a mini van full of lumber to fix all that. I suppose my husband's amazing carpentry skills may also have helped a bit.
We removed the dining room wall that the old steps were anchored to. I use the term 'anchored' very loosely. All the supports of the staircase were very loose. We removed everything and started over. David seems to think that the town Building Inspector may want them to meet some sort of code. I do hope it's the Pirate Code.
The steps start in the kitchen and run straight up, no turns. They are roughed in for now, but functional. The difference on the second floor is dramatic. Here the plank half wall that was the bannister is removed. The new stair well is just left of the carpet. The hallway is now double the width with the removal of the attic stairs. We replaced those with a pull down unit. The chimney is framed out and will be left exposed in the hallway. See the hall picture above right with the radio for the 'before' view.
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