Installation Guide
© 2013 SureWood-LNL All Right Reserved | p 7
Tools Required:
4
Basic Installation:
6
Operation: Tools Needed:
Measuring and Leveling
Cutting
Nailing
Gluing
Screw Driving
Drilling
Finishing
Metal measuring tape, hand levels, (torpedo and 4’ level),
framing square
Miter box and saw (fine-tooth) hand or power circular saw or
standard hand saw
Hammer, nail set, 1“ finishing nails
Carpenter’s glue and construction adhesive
Screwdriver (manual or power), 3“ wood screws
Hand drill, drill guide and 1/8“, 1/4“, 3/8“, 5/8“, 3/4“, 1“ 
wood bits
Sandpaper, steel wool, wood file, wood chisel, finishing stain, 
rags, tack cloth, etc.
Getting Started - Tread and Riser 
Installation:
5
To properly install solid oak treads and risers, you must first remove the existing steps to 
expose the rough framing. Leave the beginning riser at base of steps (A). Measure and cut 
each step separately to ensure tight fit. (B). Pre-drill, apply construction adhesive and nail 
into place. For added strength, screw treads to risers from behind (C). Complete each step 
before continuing on to next step.
Landing Tread
Landing tread can be used with 
3/4”oak flooring along a landing 
when solid oak treads and risers are 
used. Landing tread can be used 
along a balcony with oak flooring. 
Properly cut miters and attach 
directly to sub floor.
Tread Return Nosing Installation
Cut and miter tread return nosing to fit.
Adds a finished look to the tread edge.
A B
C
Tread
Tread
Return
Nosing
Marking Your Staircase for Installation
Layout your staircase directly on your treads and landings. Carefully mark Newel and 
Baluster positions and centerlines.
Starting Newel
Baluster
Centerline
Face of Stringer
Mark Position of 
Baluster Centerpoint
Mark Position of 
Landing Newel and 
Centerline
Landing 
Tread
Tread
Return
Nosing
Turnout Starting Fitting Layout
Starting Easing Fitting Layout
The balustrade centerline and newel centerpoints should be laid out. On a kneewall stair, 
the balustrade should be centered on the kneewall. On an open-tread stair, the centerline 
should be 1/2 of the baluster square in from the face of the stringer; i.e. 5/8“ for a 
1-1/4’’ baluster.
Volute Starting Fitting Layout










