powered by

← Guide

staircase measurement

Step 3 of 4

Clip 1/3
Helpful?

Step 3 · Step 3: Measure the Width of Each Tread

Position your tape measure to run across the tread, parallel to the back riser. If your staircase is enclosed between two walls, measure from wall to wall. If one or both sides are open, measure from the absolute edge of the tread to the other side. For a classic, design-conscious look, many homeowners leave about a 1-inch border of exposed wood on each side. For example, a 36-inch wide stair often looks best with a 34-inch wide tread. Make sure to record the width for each individual step.

Tips and Tricks (2)
1

Standard residential treads often have approximately a 1-inch space on each side for a clean bordered appearance.

Standard residential treads often have approximately a 1-inch space on each side for a clean bordered appearance.

2

When ordering custom treads, consider this 1-inch setback for a bordered look.

When ordering custom treads, consider this 1-inch setback for a bordered look.

ⓘ These safety tips are AI-generated and have not been verified by a professional. They may be incomplete or incorrect. Verify independently against manufacturer instructions and local codes, and consult a qualified professional before relying on them. This is not a substitute for professional advice.

Step 3: Measure the Width of Each Tread · staircase measurement · Oak Valley Designs DIY Hub

Subscribe for exclusive updates

Be the first to know about promotions, new products, and sales.