False Tread Instructions
Page 1
The LJ-8079 False Tread Kit is intended as an economical substitute for standard LJ-8070 Treads and LJ-8075 Risers when a
carpet runner is being used on a stair. The guidelines below will help the carpenter prepare the rough stair and install the False
Treads and Risers. L.J. Smith recommends the use of screws, whenever possible, and glue on all contact surfaces.
: Please read these instructions completely before beginning installation!
1. Lay out the three rough horses to the required rise and run (C and B respectively). Accuracy is important for ease
of tting the false treads and risers later.
: If using the LJ-8010-2 False Starting Step, see Part 5 before cutting the rough horses.
2. Allowing space against the stud wall for drywall and a nished skirtboard, space the rough horses equally and
secure the top and bottom into place.
3. Cut the subriser to the overall width of the rough stairs and install.
: Always install all of the risers before any treads.
4. Using and the steps below, prepare the subtreads.
A= The overall rough stair width.
= The rough stair run.
C= The rough stair rise.
D= 1 1/4" nosing to keep carpet even with the nosing on false
ends.
E= Notch the closed end of the subtread 1 1/4" deep and 6" wide
for the false ends.
F= Notch the open end of the subtread 1 1/4" deep and 6" wide
for the false ends.
skirtboard thickness from the 6" width.
If using 2x12's for the subtreads, chamfer the bottom edge of D in
.
Install subtreads using screws and construction adhesive to
reduce the chance of a squeaky stair.
Subriser
Closed
Side of
Stair
Open
Side of
Stair
1/2"
14"
11"
9"
Premitered
Side Moulding
Universal
False Tread
Premitered
Front Moulding
6"
1/2"
8"
LJ-8076
False Riser
6"
5. Install the nished skirtboard on the closed side of the
stair.
6. When cutting out the open side nished skirtboard, miter
cut each rise at 45º to avoid
exposing end grain on the false riser. Install the nished
skirtboard.
A
D
F
E
C
Rough
Horse
Subtread