rubber stair treads installation

The Complete Guide to Installing Rubber Stair Treads Like a Pro

Hey there! I’m Anaya from BestStairTreads.com. With 20 years of experience installing rubber stair treads everywhere from hotels to homes, I’m going to share the professional techniques that ensure your treads stay securely in place for years.

Before You Begin: Critical Prep Work

Handling Your Rubber Treads

• Always store treads flat – never stand them on edge
• Let treads acclimate at room temperature (70°F/21°C) for 48 hours
• Inspect each tread for defects before installation

Step Preparation is Key

1. Deep clean – Remove all dirt, grease, and old adhesive
2. Repair damage – Fill cracks and level uneven surfaces
3. Secure loose steps – Nail down any wobbly wooden treads
4. Sand rough edges – Creates better adhesion surface

Pro Tip: Keep denatured alcohol handy – you’ll need it for cleaning tread backs.

Cutting Rubber Treads Perfectly

Measuring Correctly

• Measure each step individually (never assume they’re identical)
• For standard rubber treads, cut 1/8″ shorter than your measurement
• For extra-thick commercial treads, consider cutting 3/16″ short

Professional Cutting Technique

1. Use a sharp utility knife (change blades often)
2. Make multiple light passes rather than one deep cut
3. Cut from the back side of the tread for cleaner edges
4. Angle the rear edge slightly inward (underbevel) for better fit

The Step Most DIYers Miss

New rubber treads have a mold release agent that looks like white powder. If you don’t remove it:

❌ Adhesive won’t bond properly
❌ Treads will peel up within weeks

How to fix it:

1. Wipe every tread back with denatured alcohol
2. Use clean rags (the powder is stubborn)
3. Don’t rush – this step determines your long-term success

Choosing the Right Adhesive

For rubber treads, only use:

• High-quality rubber flooring adhesive OR
• Premium contact adhesive specifically for rubber

⚠️ Never use:

• Carpet adhesive
• Vinyl adhesive
• Generic construction adhesives

Our Pick: Tarkett 965 adhesive is specially formulated for rubber treads.

Professional Installation Steps

1. Apply epoxy nose caulk (Tarkett 930) along the front edge

• Prevents future lifting at the most vulnerable point
• Use about a pencil-width bead

1. Apply adhesive to both step and tread back

• Use a notched trowel for even coverage
• Wait until tacky (should transfer ridges to your finger)

1. Installation sequence:

• Start at the nose, pressing firmly backward
• Work out any air bubbles as you go
• Roll entire surface with a 100lb hand roller

1. Work in sections:

• Cut all treads first
• Then glue all
• Finally install all

Post-Installation Must-Dos

First 24 Hours

• Absolutely no foot traffic!
• Cover treads if workers must pass through
• Remove any adhesive squeeze-out immediately

First Week

• Avoid washing or heavy cleaning
• Check daily for any lifting edges
• Keep area well-ventilated

Long-Term Maintenance

Daily Care:

• Sweep with soft-bristle broom
• Wipe spills immediately

Deep Cleaning:

1. Damp mop with mild detergent
2. Rinse with clean water
3. Dry completely

Winter Tip: Remove snow/slush promptly to maintain traction

When to Call Professionals

Contact us if you encounter:

• Stairs with unusual shapes/angles
• Persistent adhesion problems
• Commercial installations with heavy traffic

Why Our Method Works:

• No buckling from tension
• No premature peeling
• Professional finish that lasts 10+ years

Final Pro Advice:

• Invest in knee pads – your joints will thank you
• Don’t rush – proper prep prevents problems
• When in doubt, ask the experts

Remember: A proper installation means your rubber treads will stay safe and secure for decades!

Anaya Khan
Founder, BestStairTreads.com
(20 years specializing in rubber tread installations)