using stair tread as shelf

Transform Stair Tread into Stylish Shelves

By James Davis
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Ever found yourself in a small apartment or home office with limited space? You're not alone. In such situations, every square inch counts, and it's crucial to make the most of your vertical space. One innovative and space-saving solution is using stair treads as shelves. This not only adds functionality but also brings a unique, rustic charm to your home.

Stair tread shelves are a fantastic way to transform your stairs into a functional storage space or a beautiful display area. They're perfect for small apartments, lofts, or homes with narrow staircases. By repurposing stair treads, you're giving new life to old materials, making it an eco-friendly and budget-friendly solution.

Materials and Tools Needed

Before you start, gather your materials and tools. You'll need:

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Using Stair Treads for Open Shelving Project.
Using Stair Treads for Open Shelving Project.
DIY Stair Tread Shelves, the Perfect Cheap Storage Solution!
DIY Stair Tread Shelves, the Perfect Cheap Storage Solution!
664K views · 19K reactions | My favorite shelf hack is to use solid wood stair treads as shelving! They are thicker than regular 1x12s (1” thick vs 3/4”) and the front edge is rounded. Add a few brackets (into wall studs for maximum strength!) and lay the treads on top. Don’t forget to secure them to the bracket with 3/4” screws underneath. These are solid pine but I’ve also used the solid oak stair treads before too! Would you use stair treads as shelving? | DeLancey DIY | Facebook
664K views · 19K reactions | My favorite shelf hack is to use solid wood stair treads as shelving! They are thicker than regular 1x12s (1” thick vs 3/4”) and the front edge is rounded. Add a few brackets (into wall studs for maximum strength!) and lay the treads on top. Don’t forget to secure them to the bracket with 3/4” screws underneath. These are solid pine but I’ve also used the solid oak stair treads before too! Would you use stair treads as shelving? | DeLancey DIY | Facebook
  • Stair treads (new or reclaimed)
  • Wood screws
  • Wood glue
  • Sandpaper
  • Paint or stain (optional)
  • Drill and driver bits
  • Tape measure
  • Level
  • Saw (circular, jigsaw, or handsaw)

Preparing the Stair Treads

First, ensure your stair treads are clean and dry. If using reclaimed treads, sand them lightly to remove any splinters or rough spots. You can also paint or stain them to match your home's decor.

Measure the width and depth of your stair treads. These will determine the size of your shelves. Mark the measurements on the wall where you want to install the shelves.

Alternating-tread staircase, open-riser with space limiter.
Alternating-tread staircase, open-riser with space limiter.
the shelves are filled with figurines and books
the shelves are filled with figurines and books
Using Stair Tread Nosing as Finishing Trim on Built-in Shelves
Using Stair Tread Nosing as Finishing Trim on Built-in Shelves

Installing the Stair Tread Shelves

Start by drawing a level line on the wall using your tape measure. This will be the top edge of your first shelf. Position your stair tread against the line, ensuring it's level. Mark the screw holes through the pre-drilled holes in the tread.

Using your drill, create pilot holes at the marked spots. Apply wood glue to the back of the tread, then attach it to the wall using screws. Repeat this process for each tread, staggering them to create a stepped effect if desired.

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Creative Ways to Use Stair Tread Shelves

Now that your stair tread shelves are installed, it's time to get creative with their use.

empty shelves in a white room with no one on the shelf and only two without
empty shelves in a white room with no one on the shelf and only two without
Using Stair Tread Nosing as Finishing Trim on Built-in Shelves
Using Stair Tread Nosing as Finishing Trim on Built-in Shelves
46 Smart Over Stairs Storage Ideas
46 Smart Over Stairs Storage Ideas
Loft Stairs - Alternating Tread Space Saving Stairs for Loft
Loft Stairs - Alternating Tread Space Saving Stairs for Loft
How to DIY a Deep Peg Rail Shelf with a Hidden Stair Tread Hack
How to DIY a Deep Peg Rail Shelf with a Hidden Stair Tread Hack
Building a small corner shelf
Building a small corner shelf

Storage Solutions

Stair tread shelves are perfect for storing books, decorative items, or even plants. They can be used to create a small library on your staircase or a vertical garden. Install them in your entryway to store shoes, bags, or keys.

In the kitchen, they can hold spices, cookbooks, or even pots and pans. In the bathroom, they can provide extra storage for toiletries or towels. The possibilities are endless!

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Display and Decor

Use your stair tread shelves to display artwork, family photos, or collectibles. They can also be used to create a gallery wall on your staircase. Install them in your living room to hold candles, vases, or other decorative items.

Comment SHELF and I’ll send you links to everything that I used so that you can re-create this! DIY
Comment SHELF and I’ll send you links to everything that I used so that you can re-create this! DIY
Amazed and Amused by Innovative Space Saving Ideas
Amazed and Amused by Innovative Space Saving Ideas
Easy DIY Stair Treads (on a Budget!)
Easy DIY Stair Treads (on a Budget!)
10 Ideas to Add Floating Shelves for Wall Decor Near Stairs
10 Ideas to Add Floating Shelves for Wall Decor Near Stairs
Swap Out Your Standard Shelf With A Stair Tread For More Surface Space - House Digest
Swap Out Your Standard Shelf With A Stair Tread For More Surface Space - House Digest
Alternating tread staircase with closed back
Alternating tread staircase with closed back
Reclaimed Stair Stringer Tiered Plant Stand
Reclaimed Stair Stringer Tiered Plant Stand
Trofast storage to sturdy stair conversion
Trofast storage to sturdy stair conversion
the stairs are made out of wood and have storage compartments on each side for storing items
the stairs are made out of wood and have storage compartments on each side for storing items
there is a man that is standing under the stairs
there is a man that is standing under the stairs
a living room filled with lots of furniture and bookshelves next to a stair case
a living room filled with lots of furniture and bookshelves next to a stair case
20 Ways to Turn Stairs into an Amazing Bookshelf Library
20 Ways to Turn Stairs into an Amazing Bookshelf Library
Easy and Quick DIY Back to School Desk
Easy and Quick DIY Back to School Desk
there is a book shelf with many books on it in the room next to the stairs
there is a book shelf with many books on it in the room next to the stairs

For a more industrial look, leave the stair treads in their natural state. For a more polished look, paint or stain them to match your home's decor. You can also add backing to the shelves for a cleaner look.

Using stair treads as shelves is a brilliant way to maximize your vertical space and add a unique touch to your home. Whether you're looking for extra storage or a creative display solution, stair tread shelves are a fantastic option. So, why not transform your stairs into a functional and stylish feature today?

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