Repairing Cracks on Wood Stair Risers

Sand the area of the riser where the crack is located. Use a medium grit sandpaper to remove the top finish from the wood and ensure it is as smooth as possible.

Spread a wood fill that matches the riser's wood grain using a putty knife. Use the edge of the knife blade at a low angle to the surface to spread the wood fill. Hold the knife at a greater angle to the surface to remove excess wood fill. Press the wood fill into the crack and make it as smooth as possible. Allow the wood fill to dry according to the directions on the can.

Smooth the dried wood fill by sanding it with a fine grit sandpaper. Apply a second coat of wood fill to cover any shrinkage that the first coat may have experienced. Allow the second coat to dry and sand with a fine grit sand paper. Paint or stain to match the rest of the wood.