Measure and Cut New Stair Treads

What happens in this clip

Each stair in a staircase is often slightly different in length, so it's crucial to measure and cut each new tread individually. Place an old, removed stair tread side-by-side with a new, uncut tread. Use the old tread as a template to mark the exact length needed on the new tread with a pencil. The presenter uses a circular saw for cutting; a table saw is another suitable option. When operating the circular saw, ensure both hands are firmly on the tool and your feet are well out of the way to prevent accidents, as this is a common point of injury.

Goal: Precisely cut new stair treads to the specific dimensions of each step.

What's used

Tools

• Circular Saw Ryobi
• Miter saw
• New Stair Tread
• Old Stair Tread
• Pencil

About the full video

This DIY project provides detailed instructions on how to replace old, worn-out stair treads with new ones. The process covers everything from initial assessment and removal of existing treads to precise measurement, cutting, secure installation using adhesive and a nail gun, and finally, filling and sanding imperfections in preparation for staining.

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

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