Install New Treads and Secure with Shims/Glue/Nails

What happens in this clip

Before permanent installation, dry-fit each new tread and riser combination. Check everywhere for a good, tight fit and minimal gaps. While tiny gaps can be filled later, strive for as few as possible to avoid relying on excessive filler. To ensure a gap-free fit at the bottom of the tread against the previous riser, place cardboard shims at the top of the newly installed riser. Apply a generous amount of strong construction adhesive (like PL Premium) to the underside of the new tread, then press it firmly down onto the existing tread and against the riser. Use a nail gun to secure the tread in place by firing nails into the tread and riser.

Goal: Install new treads, ensuring a strong, gap-free, and squeak-free connection.

What's used

Tools

• Caulking Gun
• Nail Gun Milwaukee
• Brad nailer

Materials

• Cardboard Shims
• Nails
• PL Premium Construction Adhesive PL Premium
• Gorilla Glue Construction Adhesive

About the full video

This project transforms a carpeted staircase into a modern hardwood staircase by replacing old carpet, installing new wooden treads and risers, and updating the railing with metal balusters. The process involves extensive demolition, precise measurement and cutting, careful installation of new wooden components, and fitting the new metal balusters.

Step 3 of 6: Install New Treads and Risers

Position the new risers first, securing them to the stringers and sub-tread or nosing of the tread below. Then, install the new treads. Ensure the front edge of the tread (the nosing) extends slightly past the riser. Treads are typically secured through the stringers from underneath with screws or nails, and also by adhering them to the sub-tread and riser. Use construction adhesive for extra strength. Make sure each tread is level and firmly attached. If using pre-finished treads, be careful not to scratch them during installation.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Modernize a Dated Staircase with Rails, Lights and Treads

1. Step 1: Remove Old Treads and Risers

   • 1:39–2:35 Cut Tread Fasteners & Remove Old Treads
   • 0:01–0:09 Remove Old Carpet and Treads
   • 0:05–0:08 Remove Old Stair Components

2. Step 2: Inspect and Repair Staircase Structure

   • 0:00–0:13 Assess Existing Stairs and Planning
   • 0:09–0:14 Repair and Prepare Stair Structure
   • 3:59–6:57 Replace Damaged Stair Treads or Risers

3. Step 3: Install New Treads and Risers

   • 6:45–8:03 Install New Treads and Secure with Shims/Glue/Nails (this video)
   • 9:53 Install New Treads
   • 0:06–0:09 Install Treads and Risers

4. Step 4: Install New Balusters and Handrails

   • 5:36–6:05 Install Balusters and Handrail
   • 0:23–0:31 Install Oak Handrails and Metal Balusters
   • 3:35–4:17 Install Balusters and Fillets

5. Step 5: Sand and Finish Treads and Handrails

   • 0:20–0:25 Sand and Finish Treads
   • 0:37–0:45 Sanding the Stairs for Smoothness
   • 0:15–0:17 Sand the Stairs

6. Step 6: Install Stair Lighting (Optional)

   • 0:01–0:04 Apply LED Strip Lights to Treads
   • 7:31–9:55 Install LED Lighting and Treads
   • 0:00–0:19 Install Flexible LED Strip Lighting