Refinishing wood steps that were covered by carpet, removing discoloration.

ransmit said:

I'm trying to finish wood steps that were carpeted. After sanding them I've noticed they are discolored where they were carpeted compared to the small area that was exposed for the banister spindles. Also discolored around scratch mark apparently from where carpet was cut. I've tried oxalic acid to bleach it. It only worked for the black marks from the tack strip nails not for the discolored area. How can I even out the natural wood color?

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Not sure if the discoloration can be reversed or evened out. If it can't be done, why not consider painting the steps (treads) a dark rich brown or even black, and paint the risers, spindles and trim a light complimentary color or white semigloss. :yes: Not sure what style the rest of your house is, but I like the look of painted steps I'm about to do mine too, my steps and spindles are stained a dark walnut but the look seems dated to me.

An example of painted treads.