8-Step Guide for Stair Riser Installation
Installing stair risers is a great step in the process of building or renovating an open staircase. Risers are the vertical boards that cover the back of each step, creating a closed and finished appearance. The stair treads are where you step to ascend a staircase.
By adding risers to your steps you can change the appearance of your staircase and can increase the overall safety of your stairs. In the case of our example, items can slip between the stairs falling down to the lower level and small pets can climb these stairs with ease but have the possibility of slipping through the gap between the stair treads. With the installation of new stair risers, we block the ability to have items falling through these gaps adding safety to our renovated staircase.
Here’s a general guide on how to install stair risers and how we performed this project at Henry Home and Yard.
Materials and Tools
- 3/4 inch or 1/2 inch plywood for stair risers
- Measuring Tape
- Straightedge
- Speed Square
- Pencil
- Utility Knife
- Circular Saw
- Drill
- Saw Horses
- Wood Glue
- 2 1/2 Inch Construction Screws
- Wood Putty
- Clear Caulk
- Paint Brush
- Paint or Stain depending on your desired finish.
Stair Riser Installation Steps
1. Measure and Cut:
- Measure the height and width of each riser. Make sure you measuring each step individually, as stairs may not be the same dimensions.
- Apply measurements to the riser material. In our case 3/4 inch plywood.
- Use a straightedge or carpenter’s square to draw straight lines for cutting.
- Cut the risers along the lines using a saw.
2. Prepare the Staircase:
- Ensure that the stair stringers, treads or framing are clean and free of debris. In our example we removed the carpet with a utility blade and pulled staples adhering the carpet to the stairs.
3. Apply Adhesive:
- Apply wood glue adhesive on the back and front of the riser that touches the treads. There shouldn’t be wood glue on areas that are visible of the risers. This adds extra adhesion for the stair riser against the stair tread.
4. Position the Risers:
- Press the riser against the back of the step, making sure it fits snugly.
- Align the top of the riser with the top of the step. Make sure the bottom of the riser is flush with the back of the lower tread.
5. Secure with Screws:
- Use a drill and pre-drill screw hole areas to prevent the wood from splitting. Make sure to measure the distance that divides equally with your tread length.
- Approximately 3-4 screws should be adhered to the top of the tread drilling down into the riser and the riser bottom into the tread back.
- There should be 6-8 screws in total adhered to each stair in these various positions.
6. Repeat for Each Step:
- Repeat the process for each step in the staircase.
7. Fill Screw Holes:
- For a finished look, fill any screw holes with wood putty and sand the filler once it dries for a smooth surface.
8. Finish:
- Fill gaps around the riser fronts and backs using clear caulk and allow it to dry before applying stain or paint to your new risers.
- If the risers are unfinished or if you want to change their appearance, you can paint, stain, or apply a finish according to your preference. In this case our customer wanted a painted back riser, leaving the front of the stairs risers and treads unfinished for carpet installation.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific materials and adhesives you are using. Additionally, local building codes may have specific requirements for stair construction, so be sure to check and comply with these regulations. If you’re unsure or if the project is extensive, it may be advisable to consult with a professional carpenter or contractor to complete your project.