Install New Treads

What happens in this clip

Apply a generous bead of construction adhesive (such as Gorilla Glue Construction Adhesive) to the top edges of the stringers and along the front edge of the riser where the new tread will sit. The adhesive acts as both a strong bond and a lubricant, helping the tread slide into place. Carefully lower each custom-cut tread into its position, ensuring the rabbet joint on the back of the tread slides into the dado on the riser below it. Push the tread firmly against the riser and down onto the stringers. Use a hammer to gently tap the tread into its final, tight position if necessary. Finally, use a finish nail gun with 2 1/2-inch (8-penny) finish nails to secure the treads, driving nails through the top surface into the stringers. This combination of adhesive and nails ensures a strong, squeak-free installation.

Goal: Apply construction adhesive to the stringers and risers, then carefully install the new treads, ensuring they fit tightly into the dado joints, and secure them with a nail gun.

What's used

Tools

• Caulk Gun
• Finish Nail Gun

Materials

• 2 1/2-inch Finish Nails Senco
• Construction Adhesive Gorilla Glue

About the full video

This video provides detailed instructions on how to update an old, noisy, and discolored oak staircase by replacing the worn treads and resurfacing the risers. The process involves carefully disassembling the existing stairs, preparing the structural components, custom-cutting new oak treads to fit irregular spaces, and applying an oak veneer to the risers for a refreshed, modern look. The project focuses on improving aesthetics, reducing noise, and extending the lifespan of the staircase.

Step 3 of 6: Install New Treads and Risers

Position the new risers first, securing them to the stringers and sub-tread or nosing of the tread below. Then, install the new treads. Ensure the front edge of the tread (the nosing) extends slightly past the riser. Treads are typically secured through the stringers from underneath with screws or nails, and also by adhering them to the sub-tread and riser. Use construction adhesive for extra strength. Make sure each tread is level and firmly attached. If using pre-finished treads, be careful not to scratch them during installation.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Modernize a Dated Staircase with Rails, Lights and Treads

1. Step 1: Remove Old Treads and Risers

   • 1:39–2:35 Cut Tread Fasteners & Remove Old Treads
   • 0:01–0:09 Remove Old Carpet and Treads
   • 0:05–0:08 Remove Old Stair Components

2. Step 2: Inspect and Repair Staircase Structure

   • 0:00–0:13 Assess Existing Stairs and Planning
   • 0:09–0:14 Repair and Prepare Stair Structure
   • 3:59–6:57 Replace Damaged Stair Treads or Risers

3. Step 3: Install New Treads and Risers

   • 6:45–8:03 Install New Treads and Secure with Shims/Glue/Nails
   • 9:53 Install New Treads (this video)
   • 0:06–0:09 Install Treads and Risers

4. Step 4: Install New Balusters and Handrails

   • 5:36–6:05 Install Balusters and Handrail
   • 0:23–0:31 Install Oak Handrails and Metal Balusters
   • 3:35–4:17 Install Balusters and Fillets

5. Step 5: Sand and Finish Treads and Handrails

   • 0:20–0:25 Sand and Finish Treads
   • 0:37–0:45 Sanding the Stairs for Smoothness
   • 0:15–0:17 Sand the Stairs

6. Step 6: Install Stair Lighting (Optional)

   • 0:01–0:04 Apply LED Strip Lights to Treads
   • 7:31–9:55 Install LED Lighting and Treads
   • 0:00–0:19 Install Flexible LED Strip Lighting