Step 3 · Step 3: Measure the Tread Width

Now, let's measure the width. Run your tape measure across the front of the tread, keeping it parallel to the riser at the back. If your stairs are enclosed between two walls, measure from wall to wall. If one side is open, measure from the finished edge across to the wall. At Oak Valley Designs, we find that leaving a small, uniform border of about 1 inch on each side creates a clean, elegant, and high-end look. For example, a 36-inch wide stair is perfectly complemented by one of our 34-inch wide treads.