Stair Repair

[Old_Geezer]

Anyone know how to easily replace a stair riser ?

Web pages I've found seem to suggest removing the tread above it, but that's not on as treads & risers are keyed into the string.

They also suggest it isn't common for the stairs to be nailed, these are. The top tread is already splitting slightly as if previous owners had tried and failed to lift it. And being near the top where they go around the corner it's above a wall the riser I wish to replace is not accessible from below.

I could smash it out but how to get a new one in and secure it ?

[douglas9401]

Smash it out as you say then replace with two pieces of suitable timber with a half lap joint, screwed and glued. You'll be able to inset the pieces into the strings then screw through at an angle to secure.

[Old_Geezer]

Sounds a plan. I'll give that consideration. Thanks.

[The Builder]

I think Douglas's plan is the simpler way to go, OG. Dismantling the staircase is the only other option.

Why do you need to replace it?
Is it plywood?

[Old_Geezer]

The riser split horizontally a while ago when I tried to reroute a cable that bizarrely went through it (as I discovered on removing the carpet). Could not reinsert the part that came out, and now given up on fitting it back in. Have now removed it. Ground off nails that used to stick up I to it. Pondering whether to glue in quadrant as no way to renail it. May post photos later.

[Old_Geezer]

...have now removed it completely. Ground off nails that used to stick up into it ...

As typed !

[Old_Geezer]

FWIW

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d36/bright_/20150402_143602_zps5xg14iwy.jpg
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d36/bright_/20150402_143551_zpsfdodrj6m.jpg
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d36/bright_/20150402_143534_zps6xlaohhy.jpg
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d36/bright_/20150402_1435251_zps6udvclzv.jpg