How to Edge Your Staircase

Replace the edging on a newly completed or deteriorated staircase with sections of wood that match the type and color of the edging currently in place. Measure the stair width, cut sections of wood to size with a table saw and sand the noses of the edges so they conform to the step’s shape. Fill in holes that held the old edging to the step with wood fill. Mark spaces for the insertion of new screws and then use an electric drill to make new holes. Attach the edging to each step using a screwdriver and wood screws. Re-sand the steps before staining and sealing the entire staircase.

Protect family members who might not be sure-footed by removing your existing stair edging and replacing it with any of the glow-in-the-dark front-edge treads that are on the market. Measure your stair steps to determine the size of replacements with illuminating properties and buy enough to cover your staircase. Use the pre-drilled holes on the new treads to position each edge and secure them to the steps with screws to add a non-slip, durable glow that allows your family safe passage in the event of a power outage and other emergencies that might require stair illumination.

Slide fiberglass stair step covers over your existing staircase if you don’t want to remove the existing edges but you need a way to add traction to the steps to reduce slip and fall possibilities when folks use your stairs. Follow OSHA recommendations by adding high-performance edging available in standard and custom sizes that range from 3 to 12 inches deep and extend to 120 inches wide for panoramic staircases. Choose a color that matches your staircase so you don’t have to strip and re-stain everything. Slide a fiberglass edge cover over each step and secure each one with screws.

Save your staircase from continued deterioration by protecting the edges with aluminum stair edging that’s easy to install and adds years of wear to each stair step. Measure the width of your staircase for accurate sizing. Use a pen to indicate cut lines and employ a mitre saw to cut each piece of aluminum stair edging to size. Position each aluminum strip atop a step edge and drill holes into both the stair and the metal so screws slide easily into the two to create a tight hold.