Install First Stair Tread
From How to Install Carpet Treads on Concrete Basement Stairs · Step 5 of 6 · Video by Oak Valley Designs

Showing 0:59–2:07 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
Begin installation by peeling off the clear plastic liner from the back of the first carpet stair tread to expose the pressure-sensitive adhesive. Carefully align the rounded front edge of the tread with the front edge of your stair step. Ensure it is centered and snug against the step riser. Once positioned, firmly press down on the entire surface of the tread with your hands to activate the adhesive and secure it in place. The presenter demonstrates that if alignment isn't perfect, the tread can be peeled off and repositioned without damaging the wooden stairs.
Goal: Securely attach the first carpet stair tread
What's used
Tools
- Oak Valley Designs Bullnose Carpet Stair Tread Oak Valley Designs
About the full video
This project demonstrates the straightforward installation of Oak Valley Designs' Bullnose Carpet Stair Treads and a matching Landing Pad. The video highlights the product's features, including a reinforced front edge, built-in padding, and pressure-sensitive adhesive, which allows for easy, repositionable, and non-damaging application to wooden stairs, enhancing safety and aesthetics.
Step 5 of 6: Install Carpet Treads
Starting from the back of the stair tread and working forward, carefully align the carpet tread with the edges of the concrete step. Once positioned, apply firm, even pressure across the entire surface of the tread. Starting from the center and working outwards, use your hands or a hand roller to ensure complete adhesion and to eliminate any air pockets. Pay particular attention to pressing down the edges.
Every video in How to Install Carpet Treads on Concrete Basement Stairs
Step 1: Clean Concrete Stairs
- 1:19–2:05 Cleaning the Concrete Surface
- 1:13–1:50 Apply Cleaner to Stairs
- 0:00–0:01 Prepare Concrete Stairs
Step 2: Measure and Mark Treads
- 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread
- 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
- 7:20–9:07 Measure and Cut Carpet
Step 3: Cut Carpet Treads
- 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces
- 3:07–3:56 Plan and Cut Carpet Pieces
- 0:37–0:59 Measure and Cut Carpet
Step 4: Apply Adhesive
- 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
- 0:09–0:25 Apply Flooring Adhesive
- 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs
Step 5: Install Carpet Treads
- 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
- 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread (this video)
- 3:25–4:32 Secure Treads to Stairs
Step 6: Allow Adhesive to Cure
- 3:06–3:19 Project Completion
- 3:44–4:26 Final Curing and Caulking
- 0:31–0:38 Inspect and Finish Installation
How to Install Carpet Treads on Concrete Basement Stairs
A high-level outline for installing carpet treads on concrete basement stairs to improve safety and aesthetics. This involves preparing the stairs, cutting the treads to size, and securely adhering them to the concrete steps.
Read the full guide Browse all guides
Planning this project? Shop Oak Valley Designs.

