Cut and Install Stair Risers

What happens in this clip

Take a new white riser and place it against the back of the prepared stair tread. Mark the riser for both length and height, accounting for any slight imperfections or variations in the existing stair structure. Use a pencil to transfer these measurements to the riser. Then, use a table saw for precise cuts to trim the riser to the exact size. Once cut, double-check the fit in place. Apply a generous bead of construction adhesive (Loctite PL3X Stronger Premium) to the back of the riser. Press the riser firmly into place against the existing stair, ensuring it's properly aligned, and then secure it with 2-inch nails using a nail gun. Repeat this process for all risers on the staircase, working your way up.

Goal: Attach new risers to the existing stairs, creating a fresh, uniform look.

What's used

Tools

• 2-inch Nails
• Caulk Gun
• Construction Adhesive Loctite PL3X Stronger Premium
• Nail Gun Ryobi (P320 Airstrike 18-gauge brad nailer)
• Pencil
• Risers RetroTread
• Safety Glasses
• Table Saw Ironmax
• Miter saw

About the full video

This DIY project demonstrates how to transform old, worn stairs into elegant oak stairs by adding new risers, treads, and bullnose molding, followed by a protective polyurethane finish. The process involves preparing the existing stairs, precise cutting and installation of the new components, and a final finishing touch to enhance durability and aesthetics.

Step 6 of 11: Install Hardwood Risers

Apply a bead of construction adhesive along the back of the hardwood riser where it will meet the existing stair structure. Position the riser against the front of the stair. Ensure it is perfectly vertical (plumb) and flush with the edges of the tread above. Secure the riser by driving finishing nails or screws through the back of the riser into the stair structure. Use a nail gun for efficiency if available. If there's an overhang, ensure it's even.

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 (this video)

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
   • 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