How can I Cover a Gap in my Stairs?

Q: we have spaces where the hardwood was laid on the floor. we don’t know how to cover these gaps, at the edges of the stairs, other than using quarter round, which still leaves gaps between the riser and the stair nose.
any suggestions for a not so skilled person?
Tom
A: Based on your description it sounds like the gaps you are referring to are against the wall. If this is the case you should be able to cover these gaps rather easily using a stringer (also known as a stair skirt). Normally the skirt is put in place against the wall before installing your treads and risers, but in a case where you have a gap that quarter round or similar trim (such as base moldings) you could use a skirt or make a modified one from some lumber like a 1” x 6” then stain to match the color.

There are several great write ups you can find online about how to make your own stringers/stair skirts, just make sure you measure the gap and get an accurate idea of how much space you will need to cover.