Place and Secure First Tread

What happens in this clip

Once the stairs are clean and dry, begin installing the carpet treads. The video shows a person carefully positioning the first tread onto a wooden step. Align the tread by ensuring it is centered or placed according to any pre-marked guidelines. Once positioned correctly, press down firmly across the entire surface of the tread, paying particular attention to the edges and corners, to activate the adhesive backing (if applicable) or secure the non-slip material. Use your hands to smooth out any air bubbles and ensure full contact with the stair surface.

Goal: Properly place and secure the first carpet stair tread.

What's used

Tools

• Hands
• J-Roller or Seam Roller
• Heavy book wrapped in cloth

Materials

• Oak Valley Designs Carpet Stair Treads Oak Valley Designs

About the full video

This DIY project demonstrates the straightforward process of installing carpet stair treads on a wooden staircase using pre-manufactured treads. The project aims to enhance safety, reduce noise, and improve the aesthetic appeal of stairs. The process involves unboxing the treads, preparing the staircase, carefully placing and aligning each tread, and securing them to achieve a professional and finished look.

Step 3 of 8: Position and Align First Tread

Take one carpet tread and align its edges with the pencil marks made in Step 1. For spiral stairs, ensure the tread follows the curve of the step and that the front edge is parallel to the riser or the nose of the step. Double-check the alignment from multiple angles.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Carpet Treads on a Spiral Staircase

1. Step 1: Measure and Mark Tread Placement

   • 0:10–0:16 Measure and Mark Stair Tread Placement
   • 0:00–0:11 Measure and Align First Stair Tread
   • 0:05–0:18 Measure Each Stair Individually

2. Step 2: Clean Stair Treads

   • 0:09–0:45 Prepare and Clean Stair Treads
   • 0:34–0:40 Clean the Stairs
   • 0:36–0:41 Clean and Smooth Stairs

3. Step 3: Position and Align First Tread

   • 3:25–4:32 Secure Treads to Stairs
   • 0:00–0:11 Measure and Align First Stair Tread
   • 0:10–0:18 Place and Secure First Tread (this video)

4. Step 4: Apply Adhesive (if required)

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
   • 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs

5. Step 5: Press Carpet Tread into Place

   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread
   • 0:21–0:26 Press Down Firmly

6. Step 6: Secure Edges (if applicable)

   • 1:19–1:59 Lay and Secure Carpet Sections (Repetitive)
   • 0:30–1:07 Secure Carpet with Staples
   • 7:38–8:56 Install Final Riser and Top Landing

7. Step 7: Repeat for Remaining Treads

   • 0:18–0:24 Install Remaining Treads
   • 0:13–0:21 Install Remaining Treads
   • 1:01–1:15 Install Remaining Stair Treads

8. Step 8: Inspect and Clean Up

   • 0:02 Final Touches and Inspection
   • 0:31–0:38 Inspect and Finish Installation
   • 0:13–0:17 Complete Installation and Final Inspection