Measure and Install Stair Nosing

What happens in this clip

After all the laminate treads and melamine risers are installed, the final step for each step is to measure and install the stair nosing. Use a tape measure to get the exact length of the stair nosing for the current step. Mark this measurement onto the nosing material. Cut the nosing to length using a miter saw. Apply construction adhesive to the underside of the nosing and firmly press it into place at the front edge of the laminate tread. Secure the nosing with a finish nailer to hold it while the adhesive cures. Repeat this process for all remaining steps until the entire staircase is complete.

Goal: Complete the installation of all stair treads and risers with nosing

What's used

Tools

• Caulk Gun
• Finish Nailer (Milwaukee M18 FUEL Finish Nailer) Milwaukee
• Miter Saw (Milwaukee Chop Saw) Milwaukee
• Tape Measure

Materials

• Construction Adhesive (Liquid Nails Heavy Duty) Liquid Nails
• Stair Nosing

About the full video

This video details the process of installing laminate plank flooring on a staircase, covering crucial cutting techniques for both the laminate treads and the white melamine risers. It emphasizes achieving precise fits and clean edges using various saws and specialized measuring tools, ensuring a professional and durable finish while addressing common installation challenges.

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
   • 13:39–14:45 Measure and Install Stair Nosing (this video)

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