Create Custom Tread Templates — Choose Your 'Reveal' (Exposed Wood)
Part of project
Carpet Stair Covers · Step 4 of 4
In this video
New stair treads typically come as 1x12 red oak boards, ¾ inch thick and 11 ½ inches wide. Since these might be too wide, they need to be cut down from the back to maintain the pre-formed nosing on the front. Because the space between the skirt boards may not be perfectly square or parallel, a custom template is required for each tread. Begin by taking an old, cut-down tread that fits loosely in the opening and placing a piece of paper (or cardboard) on top. Mark a reference line on the riser. Then, use a small combination square or a piece of straight metal/wood as a guide to trace the contours of the skirt board onto the paper, keeping the guide tight against the skirt board. Slide the guide along the length of the paper, making continuous pencil lines at each end and several points in between, ensuring the lines are not bridged by any dips in the wall.
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Create Custom Tread Templates — Choose Your 'Reveal' (Exposed Wood)
Part of project
Carpet Stair Covers · Step 4 of 4
In this video
New stair treads typically come as 1x12 red oak boards, ¾ inch thick and 11 ½ inches wide. Since these might be too wide, they need to be cut down from the back to maintain the pre-formed nosing on the front. Because the space between the skirt boards may not be perfectly square or parallel, a custom template is required for each tread. Begin by taking an old, cut-down tread that fits loosely in the opening and placing a piece of paper (or cardboard) on top. Mark a reference line on the riser. Then, use a small combination square or a piece of straight metal/wood as a guide to trace the contours of the skirt board onto the paper, keeping the guide tight against the skirt board. Slide the guide along the length of the paper, making continuous pencil lines at each end and several points in between, ensuring the lines are not bridged by any dips in the wall.