Where would you normally use timber stair treads?
A stair tread (or step) is the horizontal surface you stand on when walking up or down a staircase. These treads are commonly used on feature staircases, particularly open or floating stair designs where the timber is fully visible.
What is it made out of?
These treads are made from Crafted Hardwoods Australian Spotted Gum.
Crafted Hardwoods recovers veneers from logs that would otherwise be left behind or downgraded. The veneers are bonded together using a water-based adhesive, then formed into stable hardwoods suitable for premium interior and exterior applications.
Who is Crafted Hardwoods?
Crafted Hardwoods is an Australian timber manufacturer specialising in engineered hardwood products for architectural and decorative use.
We would highly advise that you visit Crafted Hardwoods website to learn more about their sustainable approach and to watch the technology in action.
What is an Engineered Wood Product (EWP)?
Engineered Wood Product (EWP) is the term given to timber that has been constructed by gluing together multiple thin layers of real hardwood, with the grain running in the same direction. Unlike structural LVL, it’s designed to be seen—offering the look and warmth of solid timber with added strength and stability. It’s available in premium Australian hardwoods like Blackbutt and Spotted Gum and is ideal for modern applications like stair treads, handrails, and wall panelling.
Does it look like real timber?
Yes—because it is real timber.
The layered construction creates a distinctive end-grain pattern, particularly visible on exposed edges such as stair treads.
This gives the product a unique, contemporary appearance that you won’t get from traditional solid boards.
Why choose this over traditional solid timber?
Large solid sections of Australian hardwoods like Blackbutt and Spotted Gum are becoming harder to source, more variable in quality, and increasingly expensive.
Crafted Hardwoods treads offer excellent and consistent quality, reliable availability and a competitive price point compared to large solid timber sections. For stair applications, this makes them a practical, durable, and visually distinctive alternative to traditional solid timber treads.
Does it require sanding?
Yes. Some sanding or filling may be required, particularly if the quartersawn edge (the side showing the laminated layers) is left exposed, such as in stair treads. This is normal and part of the finishing process to achieve a flawless result.
How do you finish it?
Common finishes include hardwax oils, clear coatings, or exterior-grade systems where required. Detailed recommendations, including preparation and maintenance guidance, are available here
If you’re unsure, reviewing the guide before finishing will help ensure the best long-term outcome.
Can it be used externally (outside)?
Yes, it can be used externally provided it is detailed and protected correctly, just like any natural timber product.
Exposure to weather, moisture, and UV needs to be managed through appropriate finishing and maintenance. See this External Use Guide, for more infomation.
Made to Order (2 week lead time)
Made in Australia