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Open-Side Stair Treads for LVP

Stair treads with left-return, right-return, or double-return caps for exposed stair sides. Custom color-matched to your vinyl plank flooring — no raw edges, no mismatched trim.

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Understanding Open-Side Stair Returns

Open side: Left

Left Return

The left side of the stair is exposed when facing up. The return cap finishes the left open edge.

Open side: Right

Right Return

The right side of the stair is exposed when facing up. The return cap finishes the right open edge.

Open side: Both

Double Return

Both sides of the stair are exposed. Caps on both ends for a fully finished appearance.

Why Open-Side Stairs Need Special Treads

Standard stair treads are designed for staircases bordered by walls on both sides. When one or both sides of a stair are exposed — common on floating staircases, L-shaped landings, and open-plan homes — a standard tread leaves a raw, unfinished edge.

An open-side stair tread solves this by including a return cap that wraps around the exposed edge. The return is made from the same matching LVP material, so there is no color break or visible seam where the tread meets the open side.

StairMatch fabricates open-side treads to order. Specify the number of left-return, right-return, and double-return treads in your custom order form, along with your stair width and flooring details.

What to Include in Your Order

  • ✓Flooring brand, color name, and SKU
  • ✓Number of closed (standard) stairs
  • ✓Number of left-return stairs
  • ✓Number of right-return stairs
  • ✓Number of double-return stairs
  • ✓Stair width (measurement in inches)
  • ✓Whether the top landing also needs a nose
  • ✓Photos of the staircase if available
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FAQ

An open-side stair tread is used when one or both sides of the staircase are exposed — not bordered by a wall. The tread includes a return cap (left, right, or double) that wraps around the open side to cover the exposed edge cleanly.
A left return has the capped end on the left side when you are facing the stairs. A right return has it on the right. If both sides of the stair are open, you need a double return, which is capped on both ends.
Stand at the bottom of the stairs facing up. If the left side of the stairs is open (no wall), you need a left return. If the right side is open, you need a right return. If both sides are open, you need a double return.
Yes. StairMatch fabricates open-side stair treads with matching return caps using the same or matching vinyl plank material as your floor. Provide your brand, color, and SKU when submitting your custom order.
Most open-side staircases have one or two exposed stairs — often at the bottom landing. You may need a mix of closed treads and one or more open-side treads. Include a count of each type in your order form.
Left vs Right Return →

Figure out which open side needs the finished cap.

What Is a Left Return? →

Use the base definition if you are new to return treads.

Double Return Stair Treads →

For stairs exposed on both sides.

What Is a Double-Open Tread? →

Learn when both ends of the tread need finished returns.

Measurement Guide →

How to count and measure open stairs.

Order Open-Side Stair Treads

Tell StairMatch your stair configuration and flooring details. We'll fabricate matched treads with return caps and ship them to your door.

Start a Match QuoteCall 925-257-2685