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 5 of 8: Apply Adhesive

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your chosen carpet treads regarding adhesive application. Some treads come with self-adhesive backing, while others require a separate adhesive. If using a separate adhesive, apply a consistent, even layer to the back of the carpet tread or to the stair tread itself, ensuring full coverage without excessive pooling. Use a notched trowel for even spreading if recommended by the adhesive manufacturer.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Choose and Install Wool vs Synthetic Carpet Treads

1. Step 1: Choose Carpet Tread Material

   • 4:26–5:07 Understand Wool Rug Properties
   • 0:37–0:54 Overview of Rug Materials
   • 7:51–8:45 Choosing Rugs for Specific Rooms

2. Step 2: Measure Staircase Dimensions

   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 0:18–0:49 Measure Stair Tread and Riser

3. Step 3: Purchase Carpet Treads

   • 0:02–0:04 Acquire and Prepare Carpet Treads

4. Step 4: Clean Stair Treads

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

5. Step 5: Apply Adhesive

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads (this video)
   • 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs
   • 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread

6. Step 6: Install Carpet Treads

   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread
   • 1:16–2:09 Install Carpet Treads with Adhesive

7. Step 7: Trim Excess Material

   • 0:09–0:56 Trim Excess Carpet and Complete Installation
   • 0:16–0:25 Trim Excess Carpet Along Edge
   • 3:59–4:29 Final Trimming and Inspection

8. Step 8: Allow Adhesive to Cure

   • 27:37–29:21 Curing and Final Reveal
   • 3:44–4:26 Final Curing and Caulking
   • 2:21–2:38 Complete Installation and Caulk Gaps