Complete Installation and Caulk Gaps

What happens in this clip

Continue installing the remaining risers and treads by repeating the process outlined in the previous two steps, working your way up the staircase. Ensure each riser is adhered with polyurethane adhesive and secured with finish nails. Similarly, each tread should be dry-fitted, coated with adhesive (perimeter and zigzag), placed with expansion gaps, and nailed at the back edge. Once all risers and treads are installed, clean the stairs thoroughly. Then, use caulk or clear silicone with a caulking gun to fill in all the 1/16 inch expansion gaps for a seamless and finished look. After completion, it's crucial to stay off the stairs for 24 to 48 hours to allow sufficient time for the construction adhesive to fully dry and cure.

Goal: Install all remaining stair components and finish gaps

What's used

Tools

• Caulking Gun
• Cleaning cloth
• Finish Nailer DeWalt

Materials

• Caulk Alex
• Clear Silicone
• Finish Nails
• Polyurethane Construction Adhesive Loctite Premium

About the full video

This project provides step-by-step instructions for properly installing performance accessory stair treads and risers. It covers preparation, precise measuring and cutting, adhesive application, securing with a finish nailer, caulking expansion gaps, and installing optional return trim for exposed stair sides. The guide emphasizes the importance of specific adhesive types and proper expansion gaps for a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Step 8 of 8: Allow Adhesive to Cure

Refer to the adhesive manufacturer's instructions for the recommended curing time. This can range from a few hours to 24-48 hours. Avoid walking on the stairs or placing heavy objects on the treads during this period to ensure the adhesive bonds properly and the treads remain securely in place.

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
   • 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 (this video)