How to install laminate flooring on stairs

Laminate flooring is beloved for its durability, affordable price, and ability to emulate the look of other materials such as stone and wood. This makes it an affordable choice of flooring material that can be used around the home, but can you add laminate to stairs?

Our guide will help you through the process, as well as give some laminate stair ideas to help style your space to your tastes. Read on to find out how you can make the most of laminate flooring on your stairs!

Can you put laminate on stairs?

Yes, laminate flooring can be used on stairs, and it’s a popular choice due to its durable nature and versatile look. Laminate stairs can withstand years of heavy foot traffic without the need for expensive repairs, and the variety of image layers on offer means you can customise the look of your stairs to suit the rest of your space.

What are the pros and cons of using laminate for stairs?

As with all flooring materials, there are upsides and downsides to using laminate in your home, and deciding whether it’s the best fit for you comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Here are some of the pros and cons of using laminate floors on your stairs:

Pros

• Cleaning laminate floors is easy, so you can keep your stairs in good condition without the need for expensive maintenance.
• Laminate is durable, lasting up to 25 years if treated with the right level of care.
• The versatile image layer of laminate flooring gives you access to a range of designs to style your space.
• It’s an affordable option compared to other flooring types like engineered wood and LVT.

Cons

• Smooth laminate is slippery and can cause trips on stairs if you lose friction – consider choosing a textured option to improve grip.
• Laminate’s image layer can look unrealistic compared to authentic wooden materials.
• The underfloor feel of laminate isn’t as soft as an option such as carpet, giving it inferior sound dampening.
• While laminate is easy to install elsewhere in the home, stairs can pose a difficult challenge for this process, meaning you’ll need to cut your laminate precisely.

How to install laminate on your stairs

Installing laminate flooring is typically easier than other materials, but when it comes to stairs, the process can be tricky. Here’s our step-by-step guide to making sure you fit your laminate floors perfectly to your stairs:

1. Allow your flooring to acclimatise by taking it out of its packaging and leaving it in the room you’ll be redecorating for at least 48 hours. This will allow it to expand or contract to suit the room’s conditions.
2. Remove any existing flooring and adhesive from your stairs, including overhangs. Your laminate will fit best with a perfectly flat surface, so be sure to clean away any dirt or debris and sand down rough surfaces.
3. Measure your stairs and cut three separate lengths of laminate ahead of installing: your tread pieces (horizontal surfaces), riser pieces (vertical pieces connecting the steps), and stair nosing (corner pieces that will create the overhangs for your stairs). Remember that you’ll likely need to piece together multiple boards to cover one step, and make sure you get your measurements perfect.
4. Start installing your laminate stairs by laying the tread pieces – glue your boards together to cover the area of each step, then secure them to your stairs with a small amount of wood glue. Ensure the tongue edge of your laminate faces outwards, as this will help create an overhang, and lay your tread pieces tight against the back of each step. Try working from the top of your stairs to the bottom, so that you won’t have to repeatedly stand on steps you’ve already placed.
5. Repeat the installation process for your riser pieces by glueing boards together to cover the appropriate area, then applying wood glue to secure them in place. Since risers are placed vertically, make sure you apply firm pressure when glueing them in for a few minutes.
6. Install your stair nosing by applying glue to the subfloor and holding it firmly in position, making sure it fits over the top of the tread piece. Cover the nosing with protective tape, and mark out spaces for your screws approximately 9 inches apart along the middle of the nosing.
7. Drill countersink holes along the nosing on the marked spaces, then insert wood screws to secure it, leaving the tape on.

How to finish laminate flooring on your stairs

Once you’re done installing laminate flooring on your stairs, you’ll need to take a few extra steps to get it looking perfect. Here are some methods to use when finishing your laminate installation:

• Fill in the screw holes of your stair nosing with putty to cover them up. Apply smoothly with a putty knife, then remove the plastic taping you’ve applied to the nosing. After around 20-30 minutes, use a cloth that has been dampened with water or acetone to smooth out the covering of each screw before the putty has fully dried.
• Clean your stairs immediately to remove excess putty, sawdust, or debris. Use a vacuum or brush to remove dirt, and ensure any fallen putty is removed immediately, as it can become near impossible to remove once it has set.
• Avoid using your stairs for around 24 hours after installation to allow your laminate to settle into place and your adhesive to form a tight bond. 
• If you’re wondering how to end laminate flooring at the top of your stairs, consider using a stair nosing for a smooth transition. You can either find a matching option for your laminate (which will often be provided when buying) or create your own by notching a piece of wood to cover the top of your stairs.

Conclusion

You should now know how to install laminate flooring on your stairs that will fit perfectly. If you’re looking for the right laminate for your home, make sure to browse Flooring King’s varied collection for the best prices on top brands. From stylish stone laminate to pretty pine laminate, you’ll find an option to suit your home.

Read our laminate buying guide to find your ideal fit, or get in touch to see how we can help you bring your flooring ideas to life!