How to Install & Finish Wooden Stair Treads With Exposed Ends

Measure the distance from the wall to the farthest side of the post, or between the outside edges of the posts on both sides of the stairs. Cut the wooden stair treads down to this width.

Cut a piece of bullnose molding down to the same width as the step. Hold the molding up to the front edge of the step and measure the space between the back of the step and the back edge of the molding. Trim the stair tread lengthwise to fit into the space from the back of the step to the molding.

Measure the spaces between the posts on the staircase, as well as the width of the posts. Recreate these measurements at the stair’s end. Cut the holes for the posts out with a jigsaw.

Lay the wooden stair tread onto the step so that it fits at the back of the stair with the posts in the holes created for them. Use the adhesive or nails recommended by the tread manufacturer to secure the tread in place.

Measure from the back of the stair to the front of the stair. Cut a piece of bullnose molding to this width. Measure the distance from the outside edge of the post to the side of the stair and trim the molding lengthwise to fit this space.

Apply wood glue to the back of the bullnose trim for both the front of the stair and the exposed end of the stair. Press each piece of trim into place and hold it in place for five minutes to allow the adhesive to take hold.