How to Fix a Gap Between Stair Tread and Wall? – 3 Methods

Step 1: Prepare the working area

While this method to fill gaps between stairs and wall is pretty straightforward, you don’t want the filler to catch dirt or make a mess everywhere. This is where preparation comes in.

• Brush away debris on the steps – be careful not to let any fall into the gap. Alternatively, use a vacuum for more efficiency. Don’t forget to clean the gap as well.
• Apply painter’s tape along the crack to make sure the filler doesn’t spread onto the steps. Put a covering sheet onto the stairs for good measure.

Step 2: Apply the caulk

Although you can forgo applicator guns, I strongly advise against doing so, especially if you want a smooth and even finish. Plus, you’ll need to be extra careful to apply the substance properly.

• When using caulk, a backer rod is necessary to control the sealant depth when the hole is between 0.25”-0.5”. Note that the backer rod needs to be 0.25” bigger than the gap to ensure a tight fit.
• Assemble the filler tube with the applicator.
• Trim the caulk tube at a 45° angle for easier
• Apply the stair gap filler on a piece of cardboard for a test run. Repeat this step a few times until you can apply pressure steadily enough to form an even bead.
• Press the nozzle to the gap and gently squeeze the gun’s trigger. As you do so, steadily pull the gun toward you – do not change direction. Always caulk from one end to another.
• Drag a caulk finishing tool (or a finger dipped in a soapy solution) over the filler to get a smooth finish.

Step 3: Finish the job

By now, you’re almost done with your task to fill gaps in wood stairs. What you need to do now mostly involves cleaning up.

• Clean the spilled caulk with a damp towel. If it has dried and doesn’t come off, scrape it away with a putty knife, but not before softening the filler with white vinegar
• Leave the caulk to air dry according to the instructions on its label. 24 hours are the average waiting time for the substance to cure.
• Paint the caulk. (optional)
• Peel off the painter’s tape and put the covering sheet away.

Step 1: Preparation

The preparation of this solution is the same as step 1 in the method above.

Step 2: Apply the expanding foam

Expanding foam cans usually come with a plastic nozzle. However, I’d recommend using the applicator gun, considering the substance may set in the built-in applicator before you’re done with the job.

• Wear disposable gloves before handling the foam.
• Assemble the applicator gun according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Spray the gap with water to make the substance cure faster.
• Give the can a few hard shakes for 15 seconds.
• Hold the applicator gun so the can is upside down for optimal results. If that’s not possible, positioning the foam can at any angle is also acceptable, as long as the nozzle is away from your face.
• Slowly apply foam into the gap. Be careful not to overdo it to prevent the product from expanding all over your stair and wall.
• Wait 12 hours for the filler to cure partially.

Step 3: Clean up

Because foam can expand up to 2.5 times its size, you’re bound to do some cleaning up.

• Cut through the expanded foam with a utility knife or a metal scraper.
• Sand the foam with a sanding block to create a smooth finish.
• Paint the filler to better hide gaps in stair treads.
• Remove the painter’s tape and covering sheet.

Step 1: Measure and select trims

Adding trim is the best method if you also want to enhance the stairs’ aesthetic. So, I’d suggest getting one that fits your home decor. Color and style asides, trims are available in 4 materials: wood, tile, PVC, and MDF.

• Use a measuring tape to measure the stair’s dimensions as well as the crevices between treads and walls. Select trims wide enough to sufficiently cover all the gaps.
• Add 10% to the overall trim length to account for errors.
• Determine what trim joining method best suits your stairs. The easiest one would be the butt joint, but it won’t be suitable for outside corners. The other technique, called the scarf joint, involves cutting the trim at a 45° angle.

Step 2: Cut and assemble the trims

Now that you’ve mapped out everything, you can start cutting the trim. Use a miter saw to ensure precise and easy cuts. Don’t forget safety measures – always wear protective glasses, ear muff, and a dust mask while handling the saw.

• Lay the trims on the miter saw’s bed and start cutting according to your measurements. Keep your hands 6 inches away from the blade.
• Place the cut pieces onto the stairs without gluing them in place to see how they fit. Make adjustments if necessary.
• Mount the molding to the wall with a finishing nailer. The nail should be 3 times as long as the trim is thick, which sets its ideal length around 2 to 2.5 inches.

Step 3: Touch up the trims

As the installation involves shooting nails into the wall, there will be noticeable holes in the trim boards. You can rectify this with wood filler, available in water- and solvent-based formulas. The former is easier to apply, whereas the latter is more durable.

• Identify gaps and nail holes in the trim.
• Apply wood fillers into the gaps. When dealing with small holes, use your finger to spread the substance and wipe away the excess with a damp towel.
• Wait 30 minutes to 2 hours for the wood filler to dry, then smooth the filled holes with 180-grit sandpaper.
• Clean the sanding dust by gently rubbing the trim with a clean cloth.
• Paint the trim. (optional)