Tread

These standard tread pieces are sold in pieces that are 21mm x 268mm, with an 18mm notch. Each piece is 1 metre, to be cut to the required size as necessary. They are designed to be used with hardwood risers of standard thickness, but thinner risers can be accommodated with wedges.

The tread piece of stairs is the part of the step which you stand on while climbing or descending the staircase. The tread combined with a riser makes one step and a series of treads and risers that are connected by a string and railing make a flight of stairs. The size, shape and material of the tread will depend on the configuration and design of your stairs and the final look you wish to achieve.

Economical materials such as whitewood and pine are ideal if the stairs will be carpeted and the timber won’t show. White primed treads are inexpensive and ready to be painted However, if you are leaving the treads visible you may want to consider using a higher quality of wood, such as hemlock, ash, sapele or oak, and giving the pieces a finish that will highlight the natural colour and grain of the timber.