Preparing Stair Treads

• Most stair treads are deliberately oversized so they can be trimmed at their back and sides for a customized fit. As a result, the width and depth of each step must be measured individually. You can mark dimensions freehand with a metal straightedge or place the tread on or in front of the step to determine where to cut. Use a linoleum knife and the straightedge as a guide to obtain a clean, smooth edge when cutting. Place the tread onto the step and double-check the fit, trimming edges as necessary.
  
  The surface on which the stair tread will rest must be completely flat to provide unbroken contact between step and tread. Any depressions in wood or ceramic tile surfaces must be filled, tiles and boards glued or nailed into place and the entire surface sanded smooth before treads are applied. Rust must be cleared from steel steps, which should be treated with an anti-corrosive primer. All steps and stair tread surfaces that will adhere should be cleaned with denatured alcohol to remove dust, dirt and other contaminants.
  
  

Installing Stair Treads

• Rubber stair treads can be adhered with either contact adhesive or rubber flooring adhesive, but contact adhesive must be used for vinyl treads. Another alternative is to use flexible adhesive tape specially designed for installing stair treads. If you decide to use spreadable adhesive, begin by applying it to the stair surface, including any "lip" or nosing that may be at the front of the step. Next, apply a line of epoxy nose caulking to the internal angle of the stair treads. This will fill any space between stair and step, ensuring a tight fit and preventing creaks when weight is applied to the stairs. Finally, apply adhesive to the underside of the stair tread. Leave ½ inch of space between it and the epoxy nose caulking you already laid down to prevent adhesive failure. If you use adhesive tape, remove the backing on one side and apply the tape to the underside of the tread, leaving 1 inch of clearance between it and the nose caulking. Peel the remaining paper backing from the tape when you're ready to place the tread.
  
  Slide the tread into place and fit the nosing firmly to the step. Then hold the rear portion of the tread up off the step as you push back steadily to secure the nosing. Working from front to back, press the tread firmly into place. Using a J-type hand roller promotes bonding between tread and step when rolled across all surfaces. Refrain from putting weight onto the treads until the adhesive dries completely, and wait at least one week before you wash them.