Apply Adhesive to Treads

What happens in this clip

After cutting a stair tread to its final size, flip it over to expose its underside. Apply a generous amount of strong construction adhesive or specialized carpet adhesive to the back of the tread. Distribute the adhesive evenly, focusing on applying a continuous bead around the perimeter and adding a few wavy beads or dots in the center. This ensures maximum adhesion across the entire surface and helps prevent future lifting.

Goal: Securely bond the treads to the stair steps

What's used

Tools

• Caulk gun
• Construction adhesive
• Liquid Nails
• Stair treads

About the full video

This project provides a step-by-step guide on how to install pre-made stair treads onto a wooden staircase. The process involves precise measurement and dry-fitting, cutting the treads to size, applying adhesive for secure bonding, and finally, fastening the treads with a staple gun to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Step 4 of 8: Apply Adhesive (if required)

If your carpet treads do not have a pre-applied adhesive backing, apply a high-quality carpet or fabric adhesive. Use a putty knife or a spreader to apply a thin, even layer of adhesive to the back of the carpet tread or onto the stair tread itself, ensuring full coverage up to the edges. Avoid applying too much, which can squeeze out and create a mess.

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

4. Step 4: Apply Adhesive (if required)

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads (this video)
   • 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