Best Stair Tread Jig for Precise Fittings: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Bespoke Staircase Specialist
Refurbishing a staircase is one of the most rewarding joinery tasks, but it's also the most unforgiving. If you cut a tread 2mm short, that gap will stare at you forever. In York, we rarely encounter a perfectly square wall or a standard 90-degree angle, especially in our older terrace housing.
This is where a stair tread jig becomes essential. It allows you to take a perfect template of the space—accounting for bowed walls and obtuse angles—and transfer it directly to your timber. No complex maths, just physical accuracy.
In this review, I've looked at three jig options suitable for different budgets and needs. Whether you are fitting expensive solid Oak treads or just tidying up some MDF risers, these tools will save you time and expensive materials.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Usage Speed"
"Marketing suggests you can fly through a staircase in minutes using a jig."
Whilst faster than a tape measure and bevel, a jig requires care. If you don't tighten the knobs securely, the template slips during transfer, ruining your cut. Patience is still required.
The Spec: "Universal Fit"
"Jigs claim to fit all stair shapes and sizes."
Most standard jigs handle straight flights well. However, for winders (the triangular steps at turns) or deep landings, standard jigs often run out of length. Check the maximum extension capabilities.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
FREEAMG Stair Treads Gauge Template Tool
FREEAMG
This is a solid entry-level tool ideal for DIY enthusiasts or one-off renovation projects. Constructed from stainless steel and aluminium alloy, it offers surprising durability for the price. If you are re-treading a single staircase and don't want to overspend on tools, this will do the job nicely.
The Good
- Excellent value for money
- Fade-resistant anodised finish improves longevity
- Rotates 300° to handle awkward angles typical in older homes
The Bad
- Knobs can be a bit small for larger hands
- Requires firm tightening to ensure zero movement during transfer
Installer Tip:
When using this budget jig, double-check the tightness of the knobs before lifting it from the stair. A small slip here costs you a piece of timber.
Priced at £17.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonStair Tread Template Tool with Dual Knob and Pin Stop
Gohelper
For the professional joiner or serious renovator, the Gohelper jig offers a significant upgrade in rigidity. The standout feature is the double nut locking structure and dual positioning stops, which virtually eliminate the risk of the jig slipping out of alignment when you are moving it from the stair to your workbench.
The Good
- Superior locking mechanism prevents improved accuracy
- Includes extension track for wider steps or landings
- Robust CNC-anodised construction resists site wear
The Bad
- Higher price point
- Slightly heavier to carry around mostly due to robust build
Installer Tip:
The extra extension track is invaluable for measuring window boards (sills) in bay windows, not just stairs. It's a versatile tool for bespoke joinery measuring.
Priced at £49.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonStair Measuring Tool, Folding Adjustable High Precision Ruler
Generic
The challenge with traditional bar jigs is storing them; they are long and awkward. This folding design solves that issue, making it highly portable for site work. It is particularly useful for getting into tight loft hatches or cramped stairwells where swinging a long metal bar around is difficult.
The Good
- Highly portable folding design
- Good middle-ground price point
- Versatile for shelving and partition layouts
The Bad
- Moving parts (hinges) introduce potential wear points over time
- Less rigid than a solid bar layout
Installer Tip:
Because this tool folds, ensure the central hinges are fully locked and straight before taking a measurement, otherwise, your width will be short.
Priced at £30.59 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Why use a stair jig instead of a tape measure?
Can I use these jigs for alcove shelving?
How do I stop the wood from splintering when cutting?
Are new treads hard to fit?
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