How to Install Hardwood Flooring Stair Nosings

Install a hardwood floor stair nosing

Installing hardwood flooring is not for the homeowner who is casually looking to update their floors. Installing a hardwood floor requires hard work and a certain degree of skill. However, if you have had experience installing hardwood flooring, then putting on a few finishing touches will be easy. Hardwood stair nosing is slightly rounded on the edge, notched on the bottom of the nosing and fits nicely over a wood step. These rounded pieces of nosing are typically installed on stairs and landings, and can make steps look as though they were professionally finished. Knowing where to start can help.

Things You'll Need

• Stud finder
• Drill
• Framing screws
• Screwdriver
• Hardwood stair nosing
• Measuring tape
• Miter saw
• Construction adhesive
• Drill and drill bit
• Wood flooring nails
• Hammer
• Nail set
• Wood putty
• Sandpaper
• Polyurethane and stain
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Check the stair or landing for squeaks. If you discover a squeak in the floor, this is the time to silence it. Locate the stud underneath the squeaky area of the stair using a stud finder. Use a drill to predrill a pilot hole into the subfloor and stud. Use a screwdriver to screw a framing screw into the pilot hole in the squeaky portion of the subfloor.

2. Measure the stair or landing where the wooden stair nosing will be installed. Transfer the measurements to the stair nosing.

3. Cut the stair nosing to size using a miter saw.

4. Apply construction adhesive to the stair nosing and the top edge of the stair. Carefully set the stair nosing on the stair.

5. Drill pilot holes for the nails. Hammer the nails in place. Use a nail set to set the nails below the wood surface.

6. Sand the stair nosing with large grit sandpaper. Repeat with medium and small grit sandpaper. Clean the stair thoroughly after sanding. It should be free from dust or dirt. Stain the stair nose the same color as the wood flooring.

7. Apply three coats of polyurethane to the stair nosing. The finish should dry completely between coats. Once dry, use fine grit sandpaper to lightly sand the finish smooth. Clean thoroughly, and apply the next coat of finish. Do not sand after the last coat of finish is applied.

References

• Wizard of Wood: Stair Landings
• Art Finishes: Installing Stair Nose Moldings with Glue