How to Lay Laminate Wood Floors on Exposed Stairs

Prep the stairway before installing laminate flooring. Remove existing carpeting or runner and clean the surface thoroughly to remove residual glue. Vacuum the surface to remove dust, dirt and debris. Fill dips or low spots in the stairs with self-leveling compound. Leave the compound to dry for the time specified on the manufacturer’s directions.

Measure the width and length of each stair’s riser and tread. Calculate the width of a stair nose molding strip so you know how much space to leave in front of each tread. Each nosing overlaps the edges of the laminate planks on the riser and tread. Count the number of steps along the stairway, including the treads and risers, to determine how many planks you need.

Cut a laminate floor board so it fits snugly from left to right over a tread. Dry fit this plank to ensure its back rests flush against the back of the tread or the base of the riser. Leave the required gap along the front of this plank to accommodate the stair nose molding.

Apply wood flooring glue over the base of this plank according to the manufacturer’s directions. Center and lower this plank over the stair tread. Press it lightly to help it establish a good bond with the tread surface.

Cut stair nose molding to the width of the tread. Apply wood glue along the edge of the molding before placing it against the edge of the laminate plank. Press the molding or lightly tap it with a mallet so it forms a secure bond.

Cut a laminate plank to cover the stair riser. Dry fit the plank to ensure it rests on the installed tread plank and its top is level with the top of the riser to provide proper placement of the nose molding. If required, trim excess length along its sides with a saw.

Apply floor adhesive over the back of this plank. Position this plank against the riser, directly over the installed tread plank. Press it lightly to help the adhesive bond. Continue this process of installing planks for stair risers and treads until you reach the end of the stairway.