A series of tips including dos and don'ts for better stair tread installations.

Do apply "glue blocks" where possible, on all of your stringers prior to tread installation. Glue blocks are approximately 4-inch blocks. Where possible, these blocks should be installed at every wood-to-wood contact point on the underside of the stair. This helps maintain stability of the riser and the integrity of the stringer, which also helps ensure a solid floor without squeaks.

• Install the risers with a level top edge slightly above the top edge of both the blocking and the stringers.
• Never nail into a block from either a tread or a riser.
• The important thing is to remember to install riser, tread, riser, tread or install the risers first.

Do seal the sides of the tread and riser in closed stair wells.

Don't fasten treads and or risers with only nails or staples. The adhesive is much more important than the fasteners. There will be times when fastening may be limited, so a good adhesive is critical.