How to Joint a Stair Nose

Inspect the riser to ensure it is firmly in place. Because you have to install the stair nose over the riser, you need to ensure the riser is installed properly. Sweep the subfloor thoroughly so it is free from debris or residual dirt. These elements prevent the nosing’s adhesive from bonding with the surface.

Inspect the subfloor for bumps or dips, and smooth these out until the surface is level and flat. Sand bumps in the floor until smooth, or insert floor-leveling compound into dips or low spots on the subfloor and leave to dry according to the time specified on the label’s directions.

Measure the top of the stair where you want to install the nose. Transfer the measurements to the nose material and cut over the marks with a miter saw.

Apply a thin bead of construction adhesive over the back of the stair nose. Also apply adhesive over the edge of the stair. Center and lower the nose in place over the stair. Press it lightly to help the adhesive bond. Wipe any glue that oozes out through the edges of the nose with a wet rag.

Pre-drill pilot holes along the edge of the nose and all the way through to the subfloor. Space the holes six to eight inches apart. Hammer a nail through each hole until its top falls slightly below the surrounding nose surface.

Scoop tinted wood putty that matches the shade of the nose with a putty knife. Fill the nail holes with the putty, forming a small mound on top of the hole. Scrape excess putty at the top of the mound with the edge of the knife. Allow the putty to dry for the time specified on the label directions.

Sand the dried putty to smooth it out in line with the surrounding surface.