Step 3 · Step 3: Measure the Width of Each Tread

Position your tape measure to run across the tread, parallel to the back riser. If your staircase is enclosed between two walls, measure from wall to wall. If one or both sides are open, measure from the absolute edge of the tread to the other side. For a classic, design-conscious look, many homeowners leave about a 1-inch border of exposed wood on each side. For example, a 36-inch wide stair often looks best with a 34-inch wide tread. Make sure to record the width for each individual step.