How to Replace Stair Treads on an Engineered Stair Case

Remove Old Stair Treads

• 1

  Remove the staircase railings if the posts sit on top of treads.

• 2

  Remove old treads on the top stair first. Last in, first out is the policy in removing engineered stair treads. Work in reverse order because of the way treads, bullnose treads and risers create an interlocking stair tread system.

• 3

  Loosen and remove the top tread or bullnose tread, whichever was last installed during the original installation. Lift the treads with a pry bar and hammer. As nails are loosened, remove them with a nail puller.

• 4

  Inspect the old tread and stair beneath to identify the amount of adhesive used and the type of adhesive, if possible. Certain types of adhesive are water-soluble, so the use of water with household detergent can facilitate the removal process. However, most adhesives used on engineered stairs are not water-soluble. This type of adhesive can be softened with a heat gun to hasten the removal of the old treads.

• 5

  Strip the top step of both the tread and the bullnose. Loosen the top riser with a pry bar and hammer or a straight hoe. Nails are sometimes used in the tops of risers, making it necessary to remove the nails with nail pullers.

• 6

  Remove all the old engineered treads and clean the staircase. Sand the staircase until it is clean and smooth.

Install New Stair Treads

• 7

  Install treads on the bottom step first. Measure from the floor to the top of the riser. Cut a piece of engineered riser to the exact dimensions of the staircase riser. Apply construction adhesive by making a serpentine pattern on the back of the riser, or spread the adhesive with a notched trowel.

• 8

  Measure the width of the first tread. Cut a piece of bullnose tread the width indicated. Press the bullnose tread against the stair. With the bullnose tread in place, measure the exact distance from the second riser to the edge of the bullnose tread on the stair.

• 9

  Cut a piece of engineered stair tread to the specifications indicated. Apply adhesive to the stair with a notched trowel, leaving the bullnose tread area free of adhesive. Apply adhesive to the bullnose tread. If tongue and groove engineered treads are used, fit the bullnose tread and stair together and place on the staircase. Drill starter holes and use finish nails to secure the bullnose. Fill holes with a matching filler. If engineered treads are not tongue and groove, use nails to secure on the front and back edges of the treads.

• 10

  Measure the distance from the first stair tread to the top of the second stair. Measure the width of the stair. Cut a riser using the specifications of the measurements taken. Apply adhesive and press into place. Nails can be used for added security.

• 11

  Cover all staircase steps according to the previous instructions. After all treads are installed, replace the staircase railing.