If you’re interested in learning how to picture frame stair treads, keep reading.

What Are Picture Frame Stair Treads?

Picture frame stair treads is a stair design technique that involves framing the edges of your stair treads with mitered deck boards, hiding the cut ends, and creating a clean, symmetrical look.

Unlike traditional stair treads that cover the surface, picture framing adds detail and craftsmanship to make your deck stairs stand out. How does it do this? By concealing the ends of the stair boards that usually look rigid and rough.

Materials and Tools Needed

To successfully picture frame your stair treads, you will need a set of specific materials and tools:

Materials

Composite or quality Hardwood Deck Boards: High-quality boards that match your decking
Fasteners: Deck screws designed for composite or wood materials
Blocking Material: Essential for securing the tread

Tools

Impact Driver and Drill: Preferably corded for consistent power
Power Miter Saw: For precise 45-degree cuts
Tape Measure: To ensure accurate measurements
Speed Square: Provides for straight lines for marking cuts
Safety Equipment: Safety glasses and gloves to protect against debris and sharp edges

How to Picture Frame Stair Treads: Step-by-Step

Now that you know what materials and tools you need, here’s how to picture frame stair treads correctly:

Step 1: Cutting the Stair Pieces

Begin by measuring and cutting two deck pieces to the exact length required for your stair treads. Each end should be cut at a 45-degree angle to ensure they fit together seamlessly. It is crucial to ensure that the pieces are cut to matching lengths in order to create a symmetrical appearance once assembled.

Pro Tip:

Take extra care to cut the pieces accurately. Matching lengths are essential for a flush and professional finish.

Step 2: Preparing for Connection

Before connecting the pieces, drill pilot holes for the screws. Use a small drill bit that matches the screws' diameter and drill at a 15-20 degree angle into the ends of each mitered cut. This angle helps in aligning the pieces properly and ensures a tight fit. After drilling the initial holes, align the mitered pieces together and drill through the pilot holes into the adjacent deck board where they will connect. Ensure that the holes are deep enough to securely hold the screws.

Pro Tips:

Maintain a firm grip while drilling to prevent the pieces from shifting.
Clear any debris from the holes to ensure a tight connection.
Use a screw to push through the holes and remove any remaining debris.

Step 3: Connecting the Pieces

Align the cut pieces to form a rectangular frame around the stair tread. Hold the pieces firmly, and use the fasteners to secure them together.

Pro tip:

To give your stairs a seamless look, you can use hidden fasteners to conceal the screws entirely.

Step 4: Placing the Tread

To secure the picture frame stair tread, install blocking at each end of the steps. Blocking consists of short pieces of wood that provide additional support for the stair tread. Follow these steps to ensure proper placement and attachment:

Install Blocking

Measure and cut blocking pieces to fit snugly between the stair stringers at each end of the steps. Position the blocking pieces horizontally between the stringers, and ensure that they are level with the surface where the picture frame tread will sit. Attach the blocking pieces to the stringers using deck screws. Drive the screws at an angle through the blocking into the stringers for a secure hold.

Align the Tread

Place the picture-framed tread on top of the installed blocking and the stair stringers. Ensure that the tread is aligned correctly with the structure of the stairs, with all corners fitting snugly.

Fasten the Tread

Secure the tread to the blocking and the stringers using deck screws. Follow a specific screw pattern to ensure stability, typically placing screws at the corners and along the edges at regular intervals. Be careful not to over-drive the screws, especially at the ends, to maintain the integrity of the picture frame structure.

Pro Tips:

Follow a screw pattern that ensures stability, particularly at the corners.
Avoid over-driving screws at the ends to maintain the integrity of the picture frame structure.

Use Fastener Systems Products To Picture Frame Stairs

Fastener Systems Inc. offers a range of high-quality fasteners that are perfect for picture framing stair treads. Our products are designed for durability and ease of installation, for a professional finish every time.

Contact us today for more information!

How to Picture Frame Stair Treads

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