How To Replace Stair Treads | DIY

Moments in this video

1. 0:00–0:56 Assess and Remove Old Stair Treads From How to Install Treads on Stairs with a Mid-Stair Landing, Step 1: Assess Existing Stair Treads

   Begin by assessing the condition of your existing stair treads. In this video, the treads were covered in several layers of paint and made of old redwood, which would not stain well. The presenter had previously attempted to sand them without success. This assessment leads to the decision to replace the treads entirely. The video then shows the removal of an old stair tread using a pry bar.

2. 1:16–2:13 Measure and Cut New Stair Treads From How to Install Treads on Stairs with a Mid-Stair Landing, Step 3: Cut New Stair Treads

   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.

3. 2:13–2:35 Test Fit and Adjust Treads From How to Install Treads on Stairs with a Mid-Stair Landing, Step 5: Test Fit New Treads

   Once a new stair tread has been cut, take it inside and test its fit on the corresponding stair. Place it gently into position to check for proper length and alignment. The presenter found that some of her cuts, made conservatively, were still slightly too long. If a tread doesn't fit perfectly, take it back to your cutting area and trim off just a tiny bit more to achieve a snug fit, then re-test.

4. 2:13–2:35 Test Fit and Adjust Treads From How to Protect Hardwood Stairs from Wear with Removable Treads, Step 4: Test Fit Treads

   Once a new stair tread has been cut, take it inside and test its fit on the corresponding stair. Place it gently into position to check for proper length and alignment. The presenter found that some of her cuts, made conservatively, were still slightly too long. If a tread doesn't fit perfectly, take it back to your cutting area and trim off just a tiny bit more to achieve a snug fit, then re-test.

5. 2:35–4:25 Secure New Stair Treads From How to Get a Hardwood Look on Carpeted Stairs, Step 7: Install Hardwood Treads

   To permanently secure the new stair treads, first apply an adhesive like liquid nails to the stair stringers (the support beams) where the tread will rest. Use a caulk gun to apply an even bead of the adhesive. Then, carefully place the new tread onto the stringers, ensuring it is flush and properly aligned. Finally, use a nail gun to fasten the tread securely by driving nails into the sides of the stair structure, typically into the stringers and risers, creating a strong bond.

6. 4:25–4:47 Fill Gaps and Nail Holes From How to Install Treads on Stairs with a Mid-Stair Landing, Step 8: Fill Screw Holes and Finish

   After securing the new stair treads, use wood filler to address any imperfections. Apply wood filler to fill any gaps visible on the sides of the treads where they meet the stringers or walls. For these areas, a small metal putty knife is ideal for precise application and smoothing. For the nail holes created by the nail gun, you can simply use your finger to apply and smooth the wood filler, as it allows for better control in small depressions.

Guides that use this video

• How to Install Treads on Stairs with a Mid-Stair Landing
• How to Protect Hardwood Stairs from Wear with Removable Treads
• How to Get a Hardwood Look on Carpeted Stairs