Putty or dowels?

Q: I’m installing new solid birch treads on my stairs. What is the best way of fastening them to the stringers? I am thinking glue and screw.

Also, what is the best way to cover up the screw holes on my treads? Wood putty or wooden dowels?

A: If you are fastening these to an existing tread, I would do as you suggested – glue and screw. Use a polyurethane adhesive. I think a wood dowel would look best, or should I say will be less noticeable. You can buy dowel cutters and cut from original stock material.