Stair Tread Measurement
About This Project
Ready to elevate your staircase? The first step to a successful, easy DIY stair remodel is getting the measurements right. This guide will walk you through exactly how to measure your stairs and landings to ensure your new Oak Valley Designs treads are custom-made to fit perfectly. With just a tape measure, pencil, and paper, you'll have everything you need to bring warmth and elegance to your home.
Tools & Materials
OX TOOLS OX Tuff Carbon - Marking Pencil Value Pack OX-P503210
Rite in the Rain All-Weather 8-1/2 in. x 11 in. 100 lbs. Printer Paper, White (250-Sheet Pack) 1008511
25 ft. Tape Measure
OX TOOLS OX Tuff Carbon - Marking Pencil Value Pack OX-P503210
OX Tools Tuff Carbon Marking Pencils are packed with features and are an excellent choice for any tradesman. The unique square design prevents the pencil from rolling off surfaces, unlike traditional round design. This pencil is designed to be able to write on almost any surface on a job site including metal, wood, plastic, brick, stone, block, concrete, glass, tile and much more. It features a belt clip and an integrated lead sharpener built into the cap. The pack comes with four leads, one standard graphite, one red, one yellow, and one white that can be used interchangeably.
Rite in the Rain All-Weather 8-1/2 in. x 11 in. 100 lbs. Printer Paper, White (250-Sheet Pack) 1008511
Copy or laser print your own all-weather forms, charts, maps and worksheets on patented 8-1/2 in. x 11 in. Rite in the Rain all weather copier paper. Now you can have the convenience of using your existing
25 ft. Tape Measure
Measure with precision and ease.
Steps
Step 1: Count Your Stairs
5 minutesWalk your staircase and count every single step you plan to cover. Don't forget any landings you want to match! This simple count is the first key to ordering the right number of treads for your project, ensuring no step is left behind.
Watch: Determine Staircase Dimensions
Step 2: Measure Tread Depth
10 minutesPlace the end of your tape measure on the front edge of the stair (this is called the 'nosing'). Measure straight back until you touch the vertical board, known as the 'riser'. This measurement is your tread depth, and getting it right ensures your new tread provides full coverage where you need it most for both safety and style.
Watch: Measure Stair Tread and Riser
Step 3: Measure Stair Width
10 minutesMeasure the full width of your stair from the left edge to the right edge. This will be the widest measurement of your stair. Knowing this helps you decide how much of your beautiful wood you'd like to show on either side of the tread.
Watch: Measure Stair Treads
Step 4: Choose Your 'Reveal'
5 minutesThis is where design meets function. The 'reveal' is the space of bare wood you leave showing on the left and right of your tread. A common reveal is about one inch on each side, but it's entirely up to your personal style! This final decision helps you order a tread width that looks custom-made for your staircase.
Watch: Check Your Drawing