How to Redo My Basement Stairs

Scrub the stair treads to remove dirt or debris that can prevent the tile mortar from adhering to the surface. Fill any low spots on the treads with compound and allow it to dry according to the time specified on the label’s directions.

Extend the measuring tape along the topmost stair tread to determine its width. Divide the width by 2 to calculate its center, and transfer this measurement on the tread with a grease marker. Lay a ceramic tile on the tread, above the center point, and 1/8 inch spacers on each side. Set a tile on each side of the spacer, and continue the process of laying tiles until you reach the edges of the tread that cannot accommodate whole tiles.

Measure the exposed gap on the tread between the edge of each last tile and the stringer or wall. Cut two tiles to size so they fit over the ends of the tread using a tile saw.

Mark the edges of each tile along the tread using a grease marker so you know their placement when installing them over mortar. Extend the marks over the remaining treads of the basement stairs so the grout lines match, forming a symmetrical stairway. Remove the tiles and spacers and set these aside.

Follow label directions for preparing thinset mortar in a plastic tub. Scoop some mortar and spread a 1/4-inch-thick layer over the tread using a notched trowel. Because the mortar dries quickly, spread enough to place two or three tiles.

Lay the tile over the center of the tread, with its edges lined up against the marks. Press the tile lightly so it adheres to the mortar and the stair surface. Set plastic spacers on each side. Lay another tile on either side of the center tile, lining their edges with the tread marks.

Check that the tops of the tiles are level. Adjust a tile that is slightly higher or lower by removing or adding mortar underneath. Continue this process of spreading mortar and laying tiles over this tread and the remaining treads along the basement stairway. Remove the spacers after 24 hours.

Prepare grout according to label directions. Spread a thin layer of grout over the gaps between the tiles using a grout float. Wipe the tiled surface with a wet sponge after 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess grout. Repeat this process of grouting the tiled stars.