Secure New Stair Treads

What happens in this clip

To permanently secure the new stair treads, first apply an adhesive like liquid nails to the stair stringers (the support beams) where the tread will rest. Use a caulk gun to apply an even bead of the adhesive. Then, carefully place the new tread onto the stringers, ensuring it is flush and properly aligned. Finally, use a nail gun to fasten the tread securely by driving nails into the sides of the stair structure, typically into the stringers and risers, creating a strong bond.

Goal: Install new stair treads firmly and durably onto the staircase frame.

What's used

Tools

• Caulk Gun
• Liquid Nails (Construction Adhesive)
• Nail Gun Ryobi
• Nails

About the full video

This DIY project provides detailed instructions on how to replace old, worn-out stair treads with new ones. The process covers everything from initial assessment and removal of existing treads to precise measurement, cutting, secure installation using adhesive and a nail gun, and finally, filling and sanding imperfections in preparation for staining.

Step 7 of 11: Install Hardwood Treads

Apply construction adhesive to the top of the riser and the front edge of the stair stringer where the tread will rest. Carefully place the hardwood tread onto the stair, ensuring it is flush with the riser and that the nosing (if applicable) extends properly over the riser. Secure the tread by driving finishing nails or screws through the tread into the stair stringers and riser from the top. Predrill holes if necessary to prevent splitting the hardwood. Ensure the tread is level and firmly attached.

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 (this video)

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

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