Step 1 · Prepare Your Stairs: Clean & Dry for a Perfect Bond

This first step is foundational to achieving the professional-looking results and lasting safety you expect from Oak Valley Designs. We recommend beginning by meticulously cleaning each hardwood stair step. Use a vacuum or a clean, damp cloth to banish all dust, dirt, and grease. Think of it as preparing a perfect canvas for your new treads! Any lingering residue or moisture can compromise the integrity of our innovative adhesive backing, which means your treads might not bond securely and could shift. It's absolutely crucial to allow the surface to dry completely – patience here pays off! If you find any rough or uneven spots on your steps, a light sanding will create an ideal smooth surface for adhesion. A quick, but important, safety note: please avoid applying treads over stairs that have been freshly painted or varnished, as our adhesive is crafted to bond with cured surfaces, not new finishes.