Prepare and Finish Wood Stair Treads

What happens in this clip

Begin by taking raw wooden planks that will serve as stair treads. Use a router to shape and finish the edges of each plank, creating a desired profile (e.g., rounded or beveled). After routing, thoroughly sand the entire surface of each plank, including the routed edges, using an orbital sander to achieve a smooth finish. Once sanded, apply a protective and decorative wood stain or finish to all surfaces of the treads using a small paint roller. Ensure even coverage and allow proper drying time between coats as per product instructions.

Goal: Fabricate and finish custom wood stair treads

What's used

Tools

• Hearing Protection
• Orbital Sander Bosch
• Random orbital sander
• Sanding block
• Paint Roller
• Spray gun
• Applicator pad
• Router Bosch
• Sanding block with abrasive paper
• Safety Glasses
• Work Gloves

Materials

• Wood Stain/Finish Decorator Paint (label visible)
• Polyurethane finish
• Wood oil
• Wooden Planks
• Laminated planks

About the full video

This project guides you through the process of installing custom-made wood stair treads onto an existing concrete staircase. It details the woodworking steps of shaping, sanding, and staining the wooden planks, followed by their secure installation using expanding foam adhesive to ensure a level and durable finish.

Step 3 of 6: Prepare Tread Edges (Optional)

For a more finished look and to reduce the risk of snags or sharp edges, you can round over or chamfer the front edge (nosing) of each cut tread. Use a router with a roundover bit or a sandpaper block to achieve the desired edge profile. This step is particularly beneficial if the tread material has a sharp or unfinished edge.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Protect Hardwood Stairs from Wear with Removable Treads

1. Step 1: Measure Stair Treads

   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 0:43–0:52 Measure and Cut New Treads
   • 0:41–1:06 Measure and Mark Treads

2. Step 2: Cut Tread Material

   • 0:19–0:22 Measure and Cut FastTread
   • 4:34–5:55 Measure and Cut Treads
   • 0:55–1:05 Measure and Cut First Tread

3. Step 3: Prepare Tread Edges (Optional)

   • 7:51–8:14 Round Over Edges and Sand Treads
   • 5:16–7:59 Round Over Tread Edges
   • 0:08–1:13 Prepare and Finish Wood Stair Treads (this video)

4. Step 4: Test Fit Treads

   • 2:13–2:35 Test Fit and Adjust Treads
   • 1:35–1:41 Dry Fit Tread and Nosing
   • 1:38–1:50 Dry-Fit Laminate Pieces to Each Tread

5. Step 5: Install Securing Mechanism

   • 3:25–4:32 Secure Treads to Stairs
   • 4:32–5:29 Finalize Tread Placement
   • 0:49–2:35 Install the Tread and Nosing Components

6. Step 6: Install Protective Treads

   • 0:20–0:37 Apply Stair Treads
   • 0:10–0:16 Install the Stair Treads
   • 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread