Complete Installation and Caulk Gaps

What happens in this clip

Continue installing the remaining risers and treads by repeating the process outlined in the previous two steps, working your way up the staircase. Ensure each riser is adhered with polyurethane adhesive and secured with finish nails. Similarly, each tread should be dry-fitted, coated with adhesive (perimeter and zigzag), placed with expansion gaps, and nailed at the back edge. Once all risers and treads are installed, clean the stairs thoroughly. Then, use caulk or clear silicone with a caulking gun to fill in all the 1/16 inch expansion gaps for a seamless and finished look. After completion, it's crucial to stay off the stairs for 24 to 48 hours to allow sufficient time for the construction adhesive to fully dry and cure.

Goal: Install all remaining stair components and finish gaps

What's used

Tools

• Caulking Gun
• Cleaning cloth
• Finish Nailer DeWalt

Materials

• Caulk Alex
• Clear Silicone
• Finish Nails
• Polyurethane Construction Adhesive Loctite Premium

About the full video

This project provides step-by-step instructions for properly installing performance accessory stair treads and risers. It covers preparation, precise measuring and cutting, adhesive application, securing with a finish nailer, caulking expansion gaps, and installing optional return trim for exposed stair sides. The guide emphasizes the importance of specific adhesive types and proper expansion gaps for a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Step 5 of 5: Secure and Cure

After all edge strips have been applied, check that they are all securely in place. Avoid walking on the stairs or placing any heavy objects on them until the adhesive has fully cured. This curing time is critical for long-term adhesion and safety.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Add High-Contrast Edge Strips to Stairs for Low Vision

1. Step 1: Clean Stair Treads

   • 0:03–0:07 Prepare and Clean Stairs
   • 0:36–0:41 Clean and Smooth Stairs
   • 0:18–0:31 Clean the Stairs

2. Step 2: Measure and Cut Strips

   • 0:02 Measure and Cut Anti-Slip Strip
   • 0:13–0:20 Measure and Cut Strips
   • 0:55–1:05 Measure and Cut First Tread

3. Step 3: Apply Adhesive

   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip
   • 0:20–0:45 Peel and Adhere Strip
   • 2:32–3:24 Prepare Treads with Adhesive

4. Step 4: Install Edge Strips

   • 0:20–0:45 Peel and Adhere Strip
   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip
   • 0:10–0:13 Secure the First Tread

5. Step 5: Secure and Cure

   • 3:44–4:26 Final Curing and Caulking
   • 2:21–2:38 Complete Installation and Caulk Gaps (this video)
   • 3:06–3:19 Project Completion