Answers
Frequently asked…
What to know before ordering floating stair treads. If something’s missing, email info@lunnadesigns.com or start an inquiry.
It depends on where you are in the project.
If you are purchasing treads for an existing floating stair, the dimensions are already established and we can fabricate the treads to fit. For a new floating stair, it is usually best to establish the stair design first. The structure, rise and run, stair width, stringer configuration and attachment method can all influence the final tread dimensions and thickness. Taking that approach gives you more flexibility and helps ensure the treads work naturally with the finished stair.
At Lunna Designs, we can supply the treads alone or help you develop the complete stair if the project is still in the design stage.
White oak, red oak, walnut and maple are all popular choices, but the best option depends on the look you want, the surrounding flooring and how the stair will be used. White oak is especially popular in modern homes because of its clean grain and versatility with stains and finishes. Walnut offers a darker, richer appearance.
Floating stair treads are typically thicker than conventional stair treads because the tread itself is a major visual part of the design. Depending on the stair system, thicknesses can range from approximately 1½ inches to 4 inches or more. The right thickness should be determined by both appearance and how the tread connects to the stair structure.
Solid wood treads are fabricated from solid hardwood and offer the natural character and traditional construction many homeowners expect. Engineered treads use a fabricated construction designed to improve dimensional stability, particularly with thicker or larger floating stair treads.
Engineered treads can cost somewhat more because of the additional material and fabrication involved, but they can offer an advantage where movement, warping or seasonal changes are a concern. Neither option is automatically better. The right choice depends on the tread dimensions, stair design, environment and the look you want to achieve.
In many cases the answer is yes. This is particularly true when the flooring is made from solid wood planks, milled and prepared for flooring use. However, different wood cuts, grain patterns and finishing methods can affect the final appearance. For important color matches, we recommend approving a physical sample before fabrication.
On the other hand, some wood flooring options are actually composites of real wood and already include a specific finish. In those cases, the color match process is more detailed.
Schedule a call with your Lunna Design’s representative to learn more.
Ideally, yes. Tread dimensions are affected by stair width, rise and run, structural supports, nosing details and finished wall conditions. For custom floating stairs, it is better to confirm dimensions from approved drawings or field measurements rather than ordering based on preliminary plans.
The attachment method depends on the stair structure. Treads may slide over concealed steel supports, fasten to brackets or connect directly to a center or side stringer system. The goal is normally to create a secure connection while keeping visible fasteners to a minimum. Keep this in mind that method helps to provide the correct floating stair tread.
In many cases, yes. Shop finishing provides a controlled environment and can produce a more consistent result. However, there are situations where unfinished treads make sense, particularly when the flooring contractor needs to coordinate the final stain with adjacent wood flooring. The installation sequence should be considered before deciding.
Yes. Custom fabrication is particularly important for floating stairs because standard lumber sizes rarely address every architectural condition. Treads can be fabricated in custom widths, depths, thicknesses and configurations, including oversized treads, landings, winders and other specialty conditions.
The most useful information is a stair drawing or plan showing the number of treads, tread dimensions, stair width and structural design. It also helps to know your preferred wood species, thickness and finish. If those decisions have not been made yet, photographs or inspiration images can help us understand the look you are trying to achieve. Understanding the stair design is critical to ensure that each tread works with your condition.
Still deciding what your stair needs?
Send us your plans or inspiration images. We can help you determine the right tread construction before you order.
Schedule a call with your Lunna Designs representative to learn more.Orders, service & warranty
Engineered wood treads use your selected species across all surface-facing areas, while the internal construction is designed to minimize moisture movement and offer stability. Butcher block offers a distinctive appearance: small, narrow solid-wood pieces laminated together into a single, thick tread.
Six weeks from order confirmation. Every tread is made to order to your exact dimensions, here in the USA — no warehouse, no stock SKUs. Quote turnaround is 2–3 business days.
Yes, anywhere in the continental US. Flat-fee delivery covers NYC Metro, Lower Westchester, and Nassau County; elsewhere, shipping is calculated at checkout based on dimensions and destination.
Custom depths require individual pricing — substrate, joinery, and overhang all affect the cost. Select "Custom depth" in the configurator and we'll write you a quote within 2–3 business days.
Yes — Lunna Designs is a full-service design, source, and stair-fabrication and accessory provider. Our Tier 1 installation service area covers NYC Metro, Lower Westchester, and Nassau County. We also install in Suffolk County, Fairfield County (CT), and parts of New Jersey (Tier 2). Call for more information about our Tier 3 service areas.
Yes. Switchback, cantilever, glass, dual stringer, and helical — we've been building custom staircases since 2007. Full custom is quote-only; start with an inquiry and share any drawings or references you have.
Because every tread is made to order at your exact specifications, they aren't returnable for preference reasons. We back every order with a 3-year material warranty — defects replaced — plus a 1-year warranty on labor.
By appointment. Email info@lunnadesigns.com to schedule. It's a working shop on real orders, so drop-ins aren't ideal — but a scheduled visit is always welcome.