averagejoemn

Ok, so I've run into a problem, there is a landing near the top of the stairs it is roughly 36"x33". It is currently covered with what appears to be oak. The oak isn't necessarily togune and groove but has a Z like profile. It's not in all that great of shape. My thought is to replace it.

I'm wondering if I can use the excess 1" red oak I had after I ripped each tread. I measured and I have enough material, but I don't have a way of routing in the T&G without purchasing that bit.

Can I just cut and glue up the remnant strips and then glue it in place? leaving a 1/8" expansion gap? or do I need to convert the material to T&G?

I'm not sure what's under the existing flooring but using the left over red oak would make the entire stairs the same.

averagejoemn

Also, would this be a good time to break out the biscuit joiner?

Fireguy5674

If I were doing it I believe I would find some unfinished red oak flooring. They should also be able to supply a stair nosing that would match. When it is down you can stain and varnish to match your new treads. You can try using your leftovers if you are looking for a challenge. Depending on your equipment, expertise and the look you want it maybe the way to go. Go t&g, with no glue. I would not go the biscuit joiner route.

poppa

I agree with fireguy. New flooring not that expensive and can be stained to match plus T&G stronger joints. I'd also use glue so no squeak.

averagejoemn

Called both Home Depot and Menards today, neither carry unifinshed red oak T&G. I might try a local lumber yard tomorrow. Thanks for the info everyone.

nealtw

http://www.lumberliquidators.ca/can/s/solid-hardwood-flooring/unfinished-flooring

Fireguy5674

Also try flooring stores. Unfinished is out there.

averagejoemn

I'm wondering if ill need to rent a floor nailer for this, seems like a big expense for such a small space.

Fireguy5674

For this small an area I understand the resistance to renting floor nailer. Since you said earlier you had a trim gun with 2 1/2" nails, you could try nailing and glueing the floor with that. Nail at an angle like you would with a floor nailer. Try a couple pieces to see how you do and decide if you think it will work the way you want it to.

poppa

Yes the finish nailer will work but be sure to crank up maximum air pressure and depth of nail penetration. Oak is extremely dense, which you probly already know.