How to Add Stair Treads to Existing Cement

Level out any hollows, unevenness or broken areas on the surface and “nose” of the existing concrete. The use of a leveling tool is required to be certain the step is level from front to back and side to side. Use a fast drying concrete to fill in large blemishes. For slight variations in surface, choose a concrete resurfacer or an underlayment compound that claims to bond to concrete.

Sweep and clean the surface thoroughly prior to applying the treads. Be certain to allow recommend drying and curing times for any fillers used to level the stairs. There should be no inconsistencies in the surface, nor any adhesives, dirt or other debris present.

Trim oversize treads to fit the steps, both front to back and sided to side. The tool needed for trimming depends on the material of the tread used. Bevel the back edge of the tread that fits against the riser for best results.

Begin work on the top step and work your way down. You may work on one or two steps simultaneously.

Turn the tread over and fill the nosing -- the front edge of the tread that overhangs the riser of the step below it -- with epoxy-based nosing caulk, if the concrete step does not have a nosing. Most concrete steps are squared off, with no step overhang. The purpose is to have no empty space between the tread and the concrete step.

Choose a contact adhesive, or any adhesive recommended by the tread manufacturer. Spread adhesive on the underside of the tread, and on the step itself.

Press the tread onto the step firmly, starting at the front with the nosing portion and pushing back toward the riser. Use a hand roller to completely adhere the tread to the step.