Install Lower Stair Treads and Risers

What happens in this clip

Beginning with the lowest steps, carefully place each white oak tread and riser into position on the stair frame. For hidden riser board attachment on interior stairs, a common method involves applying a strong construction adhesive (e.g., Titebond Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive) to the back of the riser board and pressing it firmly against the rough stringer or the back of the sub-tread below it. To further secure it, small finish nails can be angled and driven through the top and bottom edges of the riser into the adjacent framing or treads, then countersunk and filled with wood putty that matches the wood stain, rendering them invisible. Alternatively, specialized clips or brackets can be used that attach to the framing and interlock with the riser, allowing it to snap into place without visible fasteners. The goal is to achieve a seamless, clean look as seen in the finished stairs in the video. The treads are also secured with construction adhesive and potentially nails that are either hidden or filled.

Goal: Carefully position and secure the pre-cut treads and risers on the lower section of the stair frame, using hidden fasteners for a clean aesthetic.

What's used

Tools

• Caulk Gun
• Finish Nailer
• Rubber Mallet

Materials

• Construction Adhesive Titebond
• Finish Nails
• Wood Putty

About the full video

This project involves the installation of white oak treads and matching risers on an existing interior stair frame, designed to achieve a clean, finished look with hidden fasteners. It also covers the meticulous installation of a cable railing system, ensuring precise alignment and height for a seamless appearance. While the user requested a 'Deck Stair Building' context, this video depicts an indoor stair renovation; therefore, the hidden fastener techniques described are general methods applicable to interior stair risers to achieve a no-visible-fastener look.

Step 5 of 5: Install Anti-Slip Treads or Risers

Select anti-slip treads or riser covers that are sized appropriately for your stairs. Clean the existing oak treads thoroughly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for attachment, which may involve adhesive backing, screws, or clips. Ensure each tread or riser is securely fastened and lies flat against the oak surface. If using adhesive, ensure sufficient curing time before allowing foot traffic. For screw-down options, ensure screws are countersunk to avoid creating a tripping hazard.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Make Oak Stairs Less Slippery

1. Step 1: Clean the Oak Stair Treads

   • 0:03–0:07 Prepare and Clean Stairs
   • 0:45–0:50 Scrub and Agitate the Wood Surface
   • 0:35–0:44 Apply Wood Cleaner to Stairs

2. Step 2: Sand the Stair Treads

   • 2:06–2:52 Sand Stair Treads and Risers
   • 1:01–1:17 Sand Stair Treads
   • 1:05–1:18 Vacuum Dust and Perform Fine Sanding

3. Step 3: Apply Anti-Slip Coating

   • 0:46–0:59 Spray Clear Anti-Slip Coating
   • 0:11–0:25 Apply First Coat of Non-Slip Spray
   • 2:27–3:10 Apply Paint to Stairs

4. Step 4: Apply Anti-Slip Tape or Strips

   • 1:12–1:19 Prepare Steps and Apply Non-Skid Strips
   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip
   • 1:14–1:23 Apply Non-Skid Strips to Steps

5. Step 5: Install Anti-Slip Treads or Risers

   • 0:18–0:37 Install Lower Stair Treads and Risers (this video)