There are many options for stair treads. Before you choose the right stair tread for you, it is important to understand your choices.

It doesn’t matter if you are building a new house or renovating an old one; designing a staircase that suits your style and lifestyle is important. After you’ve decided on the type of stairs, it’s time to choose the type of tread.  Some of the wood types you can choose from are:

  1. Reclaimed Wood
  2. Red Oak
  3. White Oak
  4. Hard Maple
  5. Walnut
  6. Brazilian Cherry

There are many wood options for interior staircases. Each one will have a different look. Red Oak, White Oak and Hard Maple are some of the most popular woods. Walnut and Distressed Woods are also available.  Redwood and cedar, which are much more durable than other species, are also good choices. These woods require regular oiling and maintenance to preserve their natural beauty. They can also be left out in the elements to develop a grayish color. It is also popular to bleach or whitewash wood in order to give it an antique look and lighten the surface. Sometimes, pigment is applied before the finish coat to allow the natural grain to shine more.

Distressed wood is usually reclaimed lumber from an older barn or factory that has seen heavy use over the years. It could also be made from newer wood that has been mechanically stress and finished to create a distressed appearance. The wood we sell at Reclaimed Wood Solutions is from  It can give wood a rustic, textured look. This is a great option for high-traffic areas, as any wear will only enhance the wood’s character.

Red oak is easily available and has a reddish brown appearance. It is hardy and heavy with moderate bending strength. Red oak adds warmth to your decor.

White Oak is lighter than red oak, and it is a heavier hardwood with moderate bending strength. White Oak is a popular choice for modern design because it has a straighter, more linear grain than red. White oak can lighten up a space. It is not recommended to be used for outdoor treads, as it quickly turns black with the weather. However, it can resist rot very well.

Hard Maple is a creamy, white color with a slight reddish brown tinge. It is usually straight-grained and has a high resistance against abrasion and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for landings and stairs.

Walnut is a hard hardwood. The sapwood is white and the heartwood is light- to dark-colored. You will pay more for the dark wood, as it is the most desirable.

Brazillian Cherry is a strong hardwood and is much harder than other woods. This hardwood is mostly straight-grained and has rich colors and reddish undertones. It adds warmth to any room. Wood may darken with time and exposure to sunlight. Because of its natural ability to store water, it is not recommended for humid or high humidity areas.

If you are interested in purchasing reclaimed wood for your stair treads or any other projects, we ship anywhere in the USA and offer a Veteran.