Laminate Stair Tread & Riser Installation

Clean the stairs thoroughly to remove dirt, grime or debris that may prevent the adhesive from sticking to the surface. Pull out existing carpeting from the stairs and scrape any residual glue off with a putty knife. Scrub the stairs with a soapy solution and hard-bristled brush and leave to dry. Add self-leveling compound to fill low spots in the stairs.

Measure the width and length of a stair’s tread and riser. If you want to install decorative stair molding on the edge of each stair tread, measure its width and subtract it from the width of the tread. The resultant figure is the width of the laminate plank for the tread, minus the molding. Also count the number of stairs along the stairway, so you know how many laminate planks you need to use.

Cut a plank to the required measurement with a handsaw. Set this plank on the tread to ensure it fits snugly over the space, from left to right. Align this plank so its back edge rests against the back edge of the tread. The gap along its front is for the molding.

Spread an even layer of wood glue over the base of this laminate plank. Lower this plank over the exposed surface of the tread and press it lightly so the glue establishes good contact with the stair’s surface.

Measure and cut the molding strip to install on the tread. Apply a bead of glue over the base and back edge of the strip. Also apply glue over the exposed edge of the laminate plank. Press the molding against the edge of the plank and the exposed tread surface.

Measure and cut a laminate plank to fit over the stair’s riser. This plank should rest on the tread plank, and its top should fall flush against the top of the riser so it ensures proper placement of the molding.

Spread wood glue over the back of this plank before placing it over the stair’s riser. Press the plank lightly to help it form a secure bond.