CDS Hardwood Floors
Hardwood Stair Treads Installation in MD, VA & DC
Quick Answer
Hardwood stair tread installation replaces carpeted or damaged stairs with solid wood treads and risers — one of the highest-impact upgrades in any home.
Replacing carpeted stairs with hardwood treads transforms the entire feel of a home. We fabricate and install solid treads in white oak, red oak, walnut and any species you like, with matching risers, stringers and returns.
For open-side stairs we build custom mitered returns and tread nosings that look like true built-ins, not off-the-shelf overlays.
Key Takeaways
- Highest-visibility hardwood project in most homes
- Open sides cost meaningfully more than closed
- Blend into surrounding floors with stain matching
Benefits
- • Highest-impact single upgrade in most homes
- • Eliminates carpet allergens on the highest-traffic surface
- • Refinishable when they eventually show wear
Our Process
1. Site measure
Every stair is slightly different — we template each tread.
2. Fabricate treads
Solid 1" thick tread stock with bullnose profile.
3. Demo carpet
Full removal including tacks, staples and padding.
4. Install
Construction adhesive plus mechanical fasteners.
5. Finish
Stained and finished to match your surrounding floors.
Ready to talk about your project?
Materials We Use
- • 1" solid tread stock
- • Matching risers, stringers and returns
- • Custom mitered open-side returns
What to Expect
- • 3–5 days for a single staircase
- • You can use the stairs for essential access during the project
What Affects Pricing
We don't publish flat pricing — every home is different. These are the factors we weigh in your written estimate:
- • Number of treads
- • Open vs closed sides (open sides require mitered returns — more labor)
- • Species
- • Whether treads are stained/finished separately or blended with existing floors
Common Problems & How We Solve Them
Squeaky stringers
Fix from below when accessible; otherwise from above with screws and adhesive.
Maintenance Tips
- • Runner rugs reduce wear and noise
- • Bona cleaner only
Warranty & Guarantee
All CDS craftsmanship is backed by our workmanship guarantee. Manufacturer finish warranties are transferred to you in full.
Why Choose CDS Hardwood Floors
Family-owned, licensed (MHIC #141267), fully insured and bonded, with 15+ years serving Maryland, Virginia, DC, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Our craftsmanship has earned us landmark commercial work (including DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, DC) alongside thousands of luxury residential projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does stair treads installation take in a typical home?
Most residential projects are completed within 3–7 working days, depending on square footage, drying times and any repairs required. We provide a firm timeline in your written estimate.
Do I need to move out during stair treads installation?
In most cases, no. Our dustless equipment keeps the home habitable, though we recommend staying off finished areas for 24–72 hours to let the finish cure.
Can I schedule a consultation?
Yes. Every stair treads installation project starts with a free on-site consultation and a detailed written quote, usually delivered within 24 hours.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. CDS Hardwood Floors is a Maryland-licensed contractor (MHIC #141267), fully insured and bonded for your protection.
Related Services
Custom Staircases
Custom hardwood staircases are fully fabricated on-site — treads, risers, stringers, newel posts, balusters and handrails — from any species and design.
Hardwood Floor Installation
Hardwood floor installation is the professional layout of new solid or engineered wood planks over a properly prepared subfloor, including acclimation, nailing or gluing, sanding and finishing.
Hardwood Floor Refinishing
Hardwood floor refinishing is the process of sanding off the existing finish and top surface of your wood floor, then applying new stain and 2–3 coats of protective finish — restoring worn floors to like-new condition.