Mark and Cut Your Treads

What happens in this clip

With the nosing removed, prepare the replacement treads for installation. Begin by measuring each tread individually using a tape measure, as stairway widths can vary from one step to the next. Mark the length that needs to be cut off using a sharpie or pencil. If the tread is a double return tread, you will not need to make any further cuts as it has been manufactured to your provided dimensions. As a pro tip, use a piece of scrap wood to push the tread out at the return area. This allows you to properly scribe the skirt before cutting, which will help give you an exact fit and cut for your tread. Use a miter saw to make the necessary cuts.

Goal: Measure and cut new treads to fit the staircase

What's used

Tools

• Miter Saw DeWalt
• Scrap Wood
• Sharpie or Pencil
• Tape Measure

Materials

• Replacement Stair Treads Stair Supplies
• custom-cut to fit

About the full video

This video provides detailed instructions on how to install custom replacement stair treads. The process involves preparing the existing staircase by removing carpet and old nosing, measuring and cutting new treads, and finally installing them with construction adhesive and finish nails to upgrade the look and durability of your stairs.

Step 3 of 8: Cut New Stair Treads

Using the templates or direct measurements, carefully cut the new stair treads from your chosen material (e.g., hardwood, plywood). Ensure all cuts are straight and accurate, especially if using a miter saw for clean, professional edges. For curved or angled treads, use a jigsaw guided by the cardboard template. Wear appropriate safety gear during cutting.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Treads on Stairs with a Mid-Stair Landing

1. Step 1: Assess Existing Stair Treads

   • 0:00–0:13 Assess Existing Stairs and Planning
   • 0:01–0:04 Remove Stair Covering
   • 0:00–0:56 Assess and Remove Old Stair Treads

2. Step 2: Measure and Template Treads

   • 0:55–1:13 Measure and Mark Tread and Nosing
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 0:29–0:45 Mark and Cut New Stair Treads

3. Step 3: Cut New Stair Treads

   • 1:16–2:13 Measure and Cut New Stair Treads
   • 4:34–5:55 Measure and Cut Treads
   • 2:07–2:42 Mark and Cut Your Treads (this video)

4. Step 4: Prepare Tread Surfaces

   • 0:51–0:57 Strip Old Finish from Tread Surfaces
   • 2:06–2:59 Sand Solid Oak Treads
   • 0:33–0:39 Cut & Sand New Treads

5. Step 5: Test Fit New Treads

   • 2:13–2:35 Test Fit and Adjust Treads
   • 1:35–1:41 Dry Fit Tread and Nosing
   • 19:07–19:52 Dry-Fit and Test Treads

6. Step 6: Apply Adhesive and Fasten Treads

   • 2:32–3:28 Install First Tread and Riser
   • 1:24–1:35 Apply Adhesive and Install Treads
   • 9:53 Install New Treads

7. Step 7: Install Risers (if applicable)

   • 1:24–2:00 Install Risers
   • 0:04–0:08 Measure, Cut, and Install New Risers
   • 3:28–6:52 Install Remaining Treads and Risers

8. Step 8: Fill Screw Holes and Finish

   • 4:25–4:47 Fill Gaps and Nail Holes
   • 5:31–6:06 Apply Finish & Clean Up
   • 1:28–1:50 Clean Up and Finish