Measure Treads and Mark Laminate

What happens in this clip

Using your measuring tape, accurately measure the width and depth of each individual stair tread. The depth measurement is taken from the very edge of the bullnose (the rounded, protruding part of the stair tread) to the face of the existing riser (the vertical board at the back of the step). It is crucial to measure each tread separately, as stairs are rarely identical in size or perfectly square. Once measurements are taken, record them on a notepad. Then, transfer these precise measurements onto the Cap-A-Tread laminate material, marking the cut lines clearly with a pencil.

Goal: Accurately measure each stair tread and mark the laminate pieces for cutting.

What's used

Tools

• Measuring Tape Stanley
• Notepad
• Pencil

Materials

• Cap-A-Tread Laminate Cap-A-Tread

About the full video

This project provides a comprehensive guide on how to install Cap-A-Tread laminate flooring on stairs. It covers the initial preparation, including the removal of old carpet and staples, precise measurement of treads and risers, cutting the laminate pieces to fit, and securing them with construction adhesive. The result is an updated, durable, and attractive staircase.

Step 1 of 4: Measure Stair Tread Depth

Place a tape measure at the very front edge of the stair tread, ensuring it is flush with the nosing. Extend the tape measure straight back along the tread surface until it meets the riser (the vertical part of the step). Record this measurement as the tread depth.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Measure Stair Tread Depth and Nosing Overhang

1. Step 1: Measure Stair Tread Depth

   • 0:54–1:39 Measure Stair Tread Depth
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate (this video)
   • 0:24–0:56 Understanding Tread Depth and Nosing

2. Step 2: Measure Nosing Overhang

   • 0:55–1:13 Measure and Mark Tread and Nosing
   • 5:03–6:09 Determine Tread Overhang and Length
   • 0:28–1:15 Measure and Mark Nosing Length

3. Step 3: Measure Total Tread Depth (Including Nosing)

   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 0:54–1:39 Measure Stair Tread Depth
   • 0:31–1:01 Measure Riser Height and Tread Depth Consistency

4. Step 4: Record Measurements

   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 0:31–1:01 Measure Riser Height and Tread Depth Consistency
   • 0:55–1:13 Measure and Mark Tread and Nosing