Measure and Cut Treads

What happens in this clip

After the risers are installed, measure the depth and length of each individual stair tread. According to these measurements, cut your new hardwood treads. It's crucial to be accurate, as even small errors can lead to visible gaps. You may need to make slight adjustments to ensure a gap-free fit. A track saw, set at a 5-degree angle as demonstrated, can be particularly useful for making precise, straight cuts.

Goal: Prepare and cut new hardwood treads to fit each step precisely.

What's used

Tools

• Miter Saw Bosch
• Table saw
• Pencil
• Tape Measure
• Track Saw Makita
• long straight cuts on treads.

Materials

• Hardwood Tread Blanks

About the full video

This project transforms a carpeted staircase into a modern hardwood staircase by replacing old carpet, installing new wooden treads and risers, and updating the railing with metal balusters. The process involves extensive demolition, precise measurement and cutting, careful installation of new wooden components, and fitting the new metal balusters.

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 (this video)
   • 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