Measure Staircase for Treads

Let's start by counting the number of horizontal surfaces you step on—these are your 'treads'. A fun fact for your project: you'll always have one more vertical 'riser' than you have treads. Once you have your count, grab your tools for the job: a good, rigid tape measure, a carpenter's square, a level, some masking tape for labeling, and a trusty pencil. Having the right tools on hand makes any DIY project go more smoothly and helps guarantee a perfect result.

For every single step, place your tape measure firmly against the vertical riser at the back. Extend the tape straight across the flat part of the tread and over the rounded front edge, which is called the 'nosing'. It's critical to keep the tape measure flat and level for an accurate reading. Important: To get a true measurement, do not measure over any old carpeting, pads, or leftover adhesive. Measuring on a clean, bare surface is essential for that perfect fit. Jot down the depth for each step as you go.

Run your tape measure across the front edge of the tread, keeping it parallel to the back riser. If your staircase has walls on both sides, measure from wall to wall. If one or both sides are open, simply measure the full width of the wooden tread itself from edge to edge. As a design tip, most people prefer a small, uniform border of wood showing on either side of the tread. For example, a standard 36-inch wide stair is perfectly complemented by a 34-inch tread, leaving a 1-inch border on each side to bring warmth and elegance to your home.

In your notebook, create a clear record of the width and depth for every single step. It's not uncommon for steps to vary slightly, so if you find one that's different, make a special note and use a small piece of masking tape to label that physical step with a corresponding number. Even a quarter-inch variance can make a difference, and this attention to detail is what defines The Oak Valley Difference. For custom orders, taking a quick photo of any unusual steps to send along with your measurements is a fantastic idea. Remember the carpenter's rule: measure twice, order once. This ensures you get the perfect, custom-made-to-fit treads that give you peace of mind.