Cut and Install Nosings

What happens in this clip

Now, measure the length of each stair near its front edge to determine the required length for each nosing. Cut the prepared nosing strips to these precise lengths using a miter saw (such as a DeWalt miter saw) or a circular saw. Next, apply a generous amount of wood glue to the back surface of the nosing strip. Position the nosing in place on the front of the newly installed plywood tread, ensuring it is at least flush with the top surface of the tread, or preferably slightly higher. This slight elevation allows for sanding it down later to achieve a perfectly flush finish. Secure the nosing permanently with a brad nailer. Crucially, immediately wipe off any excess wood glue that may squeeze out onto the wood surface, as dried glue will prevent stain from penetrating evenly, leading to blotchy results.

Goal: Attach the prepared nosings to the front edge of each stair tread.

What's used

Tools

• Brad Nailer Ryobi
• Circular Saw
• Clean Cloth / Paper Towel
• Miter Saw DeWalt
• Sandpaper
• Tape Measure
• Wood Glue Titebond

Materials

• Wood Nosings

About the full video

This DIY project details how to renovate an old, carpeted staircase into a modern, painted one with new treads and nosings for under $200. The process involves removing existing fasteners, preparing and painting stringers, measuring and cutting new plywood treads and nosings, installing them with adhesive and brad nails, applying wood conditioner, stain, and polyurethane top coats, and finally, adding finishing touches like a new bottom riser and baseboard trim.

Step 8 of 11: Install Stair Nosing (if applicable)

Measure and cut the stair nosing to fit the front edge of each tread. Apply construction adhesive to the underside of the nosing and to the front edge of the tread. Press the nosing firmly into place, ensuring it aligns with the tread and creates a clean overhang. Secure the nosing with finishing nails or screws, driving them through the nosing into the tread and riser. Be careful not to split the wood.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Get a Hardwood Look on Carpeted Stairs

1. Step 1: Remove Carpet and Padding

   • 0:04–0:34 Remove Old Carpet and Padding
   • 0:21–0:50 Remove the Carpet
   • 0:44–2:00 Remove Old Carpet

2. Step 2: Remove Staples and Nails

   • 0:31–0:55 Remove Tack Strips and Staples
   • 0:13–0:38 Remove Carpet and Prep for Installation
   • 1:19–1:49 Remove Staples and Protruding Nails

3. Step 3: Inspect and Repair Stair Structure

   • 0:09–0:14 Repair and Prepare Stair Structure
   • 1:40–2:44 Prepare Surface by Filling Holes
   • 3:59–6:57 Replace Damaged Stair Treads or Risers

4. Step 4: Clean and Sand Stair Surfaces

   • 1:05–1:18 Vacuum Dust and Perform Fine Sanding
   • 0:51–0:57 Strip Old Finish from Tread Surfaces
   • 0:37–0:41 Sand the Staircase

5. Step 5: Measure and Cut Hardwood Treads and Risers

   • 6:09–11:07 Measure and Cut Treads
   • 0:43–0:52 Measure and Cut New Treads
   • 3:40–6:00 Measure and Cut Risers

6. Step 6: Install Hardwood Risers

   • 0:35–0:46 Install the Riser Boards
   • 2:49–3:19 Install Retro Risers
   • 3:55–5:35 Cut and Install Stair Risers

7. Step 7: Install Hardwood Treads

   • 10:00–11:40 Install Hardwood Treads and Risers
   • 0:49–2:35 Install the Tread and Nosing Components
   • 2:35–4:25 Secure New Stair Treads

8. Step 8: Install Stair Nosing (if applicable)

   • 4:41–5:53 Cut and Install Nosings (this video)
   • 0:37–0:41 Install Stair Nose Trim
   • 13:39–14:45 Measure and Install Stair Nosing

9. Step 9: Fill Nail Holes and Gaps

   • 16:00–16:30 Apply Wood Filler for Finishing Touches
   • 0:55–1:21 Apply Wood Filler to Blemishes
   • 0:07–0:25 Inspect and Fill Imperfections

10. Step 10: Sand Repaired Areas and Final Surface

    • 2:44–3:20 Sand Surfaces and Control Dust
    • 1:21–1:35 Sand and Clean Stairs
    • 1:47–2:00 Fill and Sand Risers

11. Step 11: Apply Finish (Stain and Sealant)

    • 0:45–0:59 Apply Protective Topcoat
    • 11:09–11:34 Apply Protective Wood Top Coat
    • 2:01–2:44 Apply Polyurethane Sealer