Install Stair Nose Trim

What happens in this clip

After the laminate tread is installed, apply a bead of construction adhesive along the front edge where the new laminate tread meets the riser. Position the custom-cut stair nose trim piece, which provides a finished edge and extends slightly over the riser below. Press it firmly into place. Use the nail gun to secure the stair nose trim, typically by nailing down into the tread and potentially into the riser. Apply clamps across the newly installed stair nose to hold it tightly against the tread and riser until the adhesive has fully cured. Repeat the entire process for each stair, working your way down the staircase.

Goal: Complete each step by installing the stair nose trim piece. Apply construction adhesive to the front edge where the tread and riser meet, place the trim piece, and secure it with a nail gun. Use clamps to maintain pressure during curing.

What's used

Tools

• Caulk Gun
• Clamps
• Nail Gun

Materials

• Brad Nails Unspecified
• Construction Adhesive Unspecified

About the full video

This video provides a condensed overview of replacing existing carpeted stair treads and risers with laminate flooring, including custom cutting, adhesive application, and securing new laminate planks and stair nose trim, finishing with the upstairs landing.

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
   • 0:37–0:41 Install Stair Nose Trim (this video)
   • 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