STAIRWAY MAKEOVER PT. 5 | Removing the Carpet + DIY Stair Risers (Easy & Inexpensive!)

Click here to subscribe: kzbin.info...
Follow me on Instagram: @kelseyromito
BUSINESS INQUIRIES: [e-mail]
Materials used:
Stair Riser Material: www.lowes.com/...
Stair Tread Template: amzn.to/3p1bTYC
Construction Adhesive: amzn.to/3QpUPa6
Foam rollers: amzn.to/3Seqi0I
Caulk: amzn.to/3P27vTB
Polycrylic: amzn.to/3bzgazb
PAINT COLORS:
Back of house siding and garage door- SW Lauriston Stone
Exterior doors- SW Iron Ore
Interior walls- 1 part BM Simply White, 2 parts BM Chantilly Lace (color matched at Sherwin Williams)
White siding- 1 part SW Snowbound, 1 part BM White Dove
Kitchen cabinets- SW Agreeable Gray
All music provided by Epidemic Sound.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I’m curious- do your home projects usually go like you planned? Do they take longer than you thought they would?

[@zomfgwiiii]

They always take me sooo much longer than planned! But I’d rather it take me longer than rushing it that way I know things are done correctly and hope I don’t need to redo them.

[@ghoulgoil5029]

Never! Something always happens that delays progress.

[@rosalindbarnett257]

Apart from painting and sanding our old hardwood floors something always takes me twice as long!! Worst is not having enough material you need and having to stop work to return to the hardware store….it’s tough to get back into that rhythm.

[@green5sing]

I have decided instead of estimating how long it will take and constantly being disappointed, because I don't think I've ever been right, I just concentrate on starting. Once that happens, how long it takes just doesn't seem to be as important because I am so excited to see the end result. 🥰

[@egonzy4473]

Girl NO! None of them!

[@heathertodd7165]

I was just telling my husband that if you lived closer to me, I would hire you in a minute to do the work I need done around my house. I love doing home projects too, I just don't have the talent you do. I had hoped this would be the "final" stair video because I'm so excited to see the final product of your hard labor. I'm looking forward to the next video!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I was hoping it was going to be the final video too. Next week!

[@AkSonya1010]

People don't have the "tallent" naturally everyone learns from others. ❤❤ Be brave and watch several videos, do your research, and take your time.

[@TJ-hk7ns]

You’re doing an amazing job with your home! I love watching your KZbin channel. 🔥🌸💥

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you so much! I appreciate the support!

[@annieknott1977]

I’m so excited to see this! I’m contemplating redoing the stairs to my basement and it is so helpful to watch your process

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Awesome! I’m trying to accurately represent the process. It’s time consuming and tedious but I totally think it’s going to be worth it.

[@zeinabsufi-sheikh4898]

I have rewatched your video like 1000 times ❤️❤️ your my inspiration Kelsey

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you! I’m happy you like the videos.

[@ghoulgoil5029]

They look amazing already. The white handrail blends in with the wall, making it not as noticeable. Pretty work!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

That’s what I was going for. If I couldn’t do an oak handrail, I was trying to make it disappear!

[@rebeccacallaghan6856]

I literally wait for your videos all week and get so excited when you post a new one! Your the best on KZbin and your taste is 👌🏻 (following from Sydney)

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you so much! ❤️❤️

[@kennabaskerville6237]

Great job continues Kelsey. Thanks for sharing my friend. Can't wait for the next step. Just beautiful. Blessings ❤️

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks so much!

[@shabbysuse7821]

Wow, your attention to detail really pays off.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you so much!

[@melindareyenga6915]

It’s amazing how much and you do everything by yourself!!! Absolutely amazing!!!! If I lived near you, I would hire you in a minute!!! You are soooo talented!!!! Everything is turning out so beautiful!!!! 😊

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks so much!

[@melindareyenga6915]

@@KelseyRomitoDIY your are welcome 😊

[@barbstormo7030]

House projects never go as planned! Our son is renovating his home and has run into several issues that were "covered" up! Your stairs continue to look amazing...can't wait until next week! Have a good one....

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Oh that’s so frustrating. That’s another reason why I’m a perfectionist with my projects- I don’t want anyone else to have to deal with a problem later. Also we move so much- I know everything has to meet code and pass inspections.

[@FRANCESGUM]

I'm at the point now where I just click "like" on your videos as soon as they start because I already know I'm gonna like it!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I totally appreciate that! Liked and comments help my channel so much! ❤️❤️

[@AkSonya1010]

Note for folks, For the back white panels on the stairs, you can buy the material in 4x8 sheets already finished white at the box stores. That is how I did it BUT when I went to use glue adhesive it bled through. We ended up not using the glue and just caulked around the edges. We also used smaller nails and put them up high so the treads covered them up. Four years later they still look great. Just use magic erasers to get the scuff marks off. One last recommendation. I like the poly wipe-on as well but I learned from a carpenter to use the spray cans of varathane because it's a harder finish and it seals really nicely.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks for the recommendations!

[@sharondumont9048]

Looking really good so far, I agree with you the handrail would look so much better in the light wood, maybe you can switch out later 👍🏼❤️😉🇨🇦

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Maybe down the road. The stair treads (in next week’s video) really blew the budget on this project.

[@lucillelee741]

Wow!!!!!!!! The stairs look amazing. You are a very talented lady!!!!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you so much!

[@sarareisbig8248]

Another awesome job!!! You have totally transformed your house. You are so very talented!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you so much!

[@lucybradshaw6154]

Great Job! Looking forward to seeing the finished project - I know it's going to be beautiful!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Me too! I’m so ready to get it done!

[@julielefevre4184]

Looking great! Lots of work! You will get it done and love it. Think of how pretty it will look at christmas.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

You just made me so excited! I love decorating for Christmas.

[@allisonlopez2012]

Get it girl! You are such a BOSS!! This just gets better and better 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks so much!

[@green5sing]

Wow! What a difference already!!!

[@donnayarbrough4137]

Another awesome video. Your amazing! You make me want to Challenge myself and do projects around the house. Since finding your channel I’ve been doing more. Lol keep the videos coming. Much love from Santa Fe Texas ❤️❤️

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Love to hear this! ❤️❤️

[@monicahenrion1559]

I just found your channel yesterday and subbed. I love anything DIY and have been slowly accumulating tools over the last 2 years to do my own. Can't wait to see the result of the stairs and check out your other videos!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Welcome! Glad you’re here!

[@moneymakingmikeg.9555]

Slowly but surely it's getting there Kelsey. Looking good!! Hoping all is well, Dirty Jersey out!!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Slowly for sure! Never anticipated it would take me this long but totally worth it.

[@moneymakingmikeg.9555]

@@KelseyRomitoDIY Keep fighting the fight Homie!! I've never seen steps finished with OSB. But, builders ues WHATEVER is on hand especially if they're going to be carpeted. I especially like that measuring tool!! I'm about to be 46 & NEVER seen anything like that. Hoping all is well, Dirty Jersey out again 🙏

[@Sweatpea12]

You have the patience of a saint ! 😇

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Haha! On camera! Trust me I’ve had quite a few tantrums over projects!

[@marydenney8249]

What great information on the stairs! Excited for next week. Thank you

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you!

[@pamyacuzzo6614]

Beautiful, your work is lovely! Your choices are perfect!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks so much!

[@handee_maam]

I love it!!!! It's looking so much better already!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you!

[@lisadearing5960]

Your stairs are looking so good! Can I say how impressive it was watching you go up the stairs backwards! 😄 Also I think carpet on stairs is hazardous. I have 2 family member who have slipped and fallen down their stairs while wearing socks. One was carrying her baby!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks! I’ve heard so many people say that wood stairs are too dangerous so I was a little nervous. Our cabin on vacation had wood stairs so I used those as a tester and they were totally fine. I was talking to my husband about it and he said “if I fall down the stairs, it’s not going to matter what they’re made of- I’m not getting up” 🤣🤣

[@glittergold6204]

I’ve slipped a few times on my hardwood stairs wearing socks! So have the kids. They keep asking me to carpet them

[@JohnSmith-qg6wz]

Omg you are amazing! So many cool tips! I wish I had your skills! I’m trying to work up the courage to paint the outside of my house like you did. Keep posting 💗

[@darabowen8077]

You can do it! ♥️

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks! Painting my exterior is still one of my favorite projects I’ve done. One of the hardest projects but with the biggest payoff.

[@monymony68]

I’ve been looking forward to this update video 👍

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Hopefully only one more to go until the final reveal!

[@egonzy4473]

It’s gonna look sooooo good!!!!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I think so too! It better look good because it was a lot of work! 🤣

[@angelicamiller]

Love it! I personally would of painted the hand rail black ! But awesome job!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I was totally thinking about painting it black. I still might!

[@heartofchocolate9433]

Looks great!!! What we think is an easy job turns into more work especially when your detail conscious. I can’t wait to see your treads & if you add a runner. What an extensive, exhausting project but one that has so many rewards day in - day out. Have a great weekend.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you! I’ve been looking into runners but after staining the treads, I’m not sure I want to cover them. I’ll probably live them for a while to see if a runner is necessary for the kids.

[@5petes]

I hate carpet on stairs cause it’s a beast to keep clean. And what do I have? Carpet. LOL! If I don’t move 1st, maybe some day I can put your great videos to the test for myself! Great work!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I know! With two kids, I felt like the stairs always looked dirty with the carpet. I’m hoping the wood treads make that easier.

[@kimberlyakers5923]

looking so good.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks!

[@laura6981]

Loving your videos! Watching you from the Jersey Shore Monmouth County!

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@lkk4928]

It's exciting to see the stair transformation, I would love to do it on mine. You keep saying "we" but it looks like you are working alone?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I know. 🤦🏼‍♀️ I always say “we” like me + you (the viewer). It is 100% me doing these projects.

[@donnapalaussie19]

Fantastic ❤

[@lindaevans9682]

Great job!!! Can't wait to see the rest of it.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks! Hopefully next week 🤞🏼🤞🏼

[@dianemarino4860]

Love your videos. They just stated coming up on my feed. How did you aquire all your skills and how to do all of these projects?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks! I have a couple of q&a videos that you can check out where I answer this question. 🙂🙂

[@normajones3712]

Beautiful 😍👏👏👏👏👏👏.love from 🇬🇧 uk

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks so much!

[@spazmat123]

I wish particle board was a look 😂. My projects never go as planned because I usually don’t know what I’m doing 😅

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

🤣🤣🤣 Neither do I! I’ve never done stairs before. But I’m happy to be the Guinea pig for others.

[@iamwhoiamd7056]

An excellent video honey. Your voice is so calming and sweet. I love seeing a women do this work and I am not kidding when I say that I am going to do the same to my house soon. We are homeless right now but it is all going to change very, very soon.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you so much!

[@carolannbolinger3795]

I’m new! This was interesting. Thanks for sharing

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Welcome! Glad you’re here!

[@J.May55]

So happy I found your channel I love watching you work. You can do anything it seems have you had professional training? Amazing👍

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Welcome! Thank you! I’m not sure I can do anything but I’m willing to try just about anything. I don’t have any professional training- just lots of research and trial and error. 🙂

[@JohnSmith-qg6wz]

Do you spend a lot of time planning & mapping out how you’re going to do a project? I’d love to see that part of your process. You seem like a pro. Or was your dad a pro?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. If it’s an expensive project, I plan more because I want to make sure it’s exactly what I want. I posted a video recently showing how I make mood boards for each room. I’m definitely not a professional (my dad isn’t either). I just fell in love with tools and diy.

[@jansmith8021]

You should get a work table for your saw! The stool and having it on the floor has to hurt your legs

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I totally should!

[@goombabear]

It would have been do much easier if the builder used real wood treds and risers. Even so, when I removed the carpet from my stairs it was a mess. The builders used a million staples for the carpet padding. The holes had to be removed and filled in. There was much muck on the wood, it needed a good sanding. From then on it was easy, I painted the treds and risers with white floor paint, it looked really nice and it was much easier to keep clean.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Yes that would have been much easier and way less expensive!

[@kristinboatright938]

Can you provide specifics on what you used for the risers? Need to know what to get from the home improvement store.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I used 1/4” mdf sheets and cut them to size

[@marypucci6814]

You get quite workout doing these stairs.

[@ginamaria2579]

Yes sometimes when I get started I ask what in the world have I gotten myself into 😣🤣😂

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Every. Single. Project. Then when I’m done, I’m always like I don’t know why I ever doubted myself. 🤣🤣

[@saezell1]

Another great job.

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you!

[@lindahughes530]

Looking great❤️

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks!

[@KatePriest28]

Can you please list tools and products that you used? Thank you so much 😊

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I usually list as much as I can in the video description. If you have a question about a specific tool or product, let me know.

[@autobotdiva9268]

Musical stair risers 😂😂😂

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

🤣🤣🤣

[@TiffineySmith-m3h]

Did you do the treads. Do you have a video of it?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpiulq1vq9GmqsU

[@mikehitsiniwanhaud8000]

So let me ask, why do you cut the front of the stair to make it flush with the riser instead of just cutting a pc of plywood and bringing the riser flush with the top of the step? Does it make a difference?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

No I don’t think it makes a difference. Honestly that never occurred to me. 🤣 I think either one of those would have worked.

[@gustavoandrespinzonlandaza5015]

How many hours did it take?

[@ginamaria2579]

You doing such an awesome job ☺️💕 where did you learn your tool and carpentry skills ??

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you! Here’s a q&a where I answered that question. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eKTEYn6mapalY8U

[@ginamaria2579]

@@KelseyRomitoDIY oh thanks

[@flyeaglesfly-j8z]

No safety glasses when using the compound miter saw? Playing with fire.

[@brittanyowens8171]

How many nails did you use to hold the risers?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

I think I did one in each corner and one in the middle.

[@kimburris829]

what did you use for the balusters please? where is it available?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

www.stairnation.com/product/hollow-plain-bar-iron-baluster/ Loved these and very inexpensive!

[@lauretiu]

Can you put an Amazon link for the parts u used for the jig you made for threads?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Link is in the video description under stair tread template

[@lauretiu]

@@KelseyRomitoDIY oh, my bad, thank you very much. wish me luck with my stairs! 😅😅 i definitely need it since it's my first stairs project(tnx for the video)

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

@@lauretiu awesome! I hope it goes well. It’s a big project but it makes such a big impact!

[@shanahmuhammad4106]

@kelseyromito Where did u get your treads from? Did you purchase them rounded on the edges or did you round them yourself? Thanks

[@tonyherrera9710]

how are the Risers holding up so far?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Really well. They get scuffed but are wiped off easily.

[@loeyheart50]

I didn't notice the mention of brand of paint and how many coats used on the risers?

[@brandonromito643]

👍

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

😘😘

[@cristinaravelo6031]

😳😲👏👏👏👏👏

[@maurakennedy5952]

Your pulling a lot make sure you dont do your back in best wishes thanks

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Back was definitely sore from pulling out that carpet. Nothing a good long bubble bath couldn’t take care of!

[@pkfan5112]

This cardboard is very cheap material, as too much work involves, should use 1/4” plywood

[@hellewellejus2895]

Gawd that carpet was ugly😂😂😂😂I hope you will go for some nice wood

[@crazybellagirl1779]

De hecho has estudiando para Arquitectura y ingeniera. Estas haciedo un excelente trabajo congratulations ❤

[@annparsons2112]

I've seen all your videos. Who taught you carpentry?

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thanks for watching! Here’s a q&a video where I answer that question. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eKTEYn6mapalY8U

[@wandadelacruz2486]

Bravo 👏🏻 Kelsey, you’re amazing

[@KelseyRomitoDIY]

Thank you!

[@akarimonet]

Starting to look so good