Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces

What happens in this clip

Based on the stair measurements, lay out the carpet and carefully cut it into individual pieces for each tread and riser. It's often recommended to cut the carpet slightly larger than the exact dimensions to allow for adjustments and trimming. Use a metal straight edge to guide a sharp utility knife for precise, straight cuts through the carpet backing. Ensure the carpet pile direction is consistent for all stair pieces.

Goal: Prepare carpet sections for each stair tread and riser

What's used

Tools

• Carpet
• Measuring Tape Stanley
• Metal Straight Edge
• Utility Knife Roberts

About the full video

This DIY project provides a detailed guide on how to install carpet on a staircase, covering all necessary steps from preparing the stairs with tack strips and underlay to precisely cutting and securing the carpet. The process involves measuring, cutting, stapling, stretching, and tucking the carpet for a professional finish.

Step 3 of 6: Cut Carpet Treads

Using a sharp utility knife or a heavy-duty carpet cutter, carefully cut along the marked lines on the back of the carpet treads. Employ a metal ruler or straight edge as a guide to ensure clean, straight cuts. Make multiple shallow passes with the knife rather than trying to cut through the entire thickness in one go, especially for thicker carpet materials.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Carpet Treads on Concrete Basement Stairs

1. Step 1: Clean Concrete Stairs

   • 1:19–2:05 Cleaning the Concrete Surface
   • 1:13–1:50 Apply Cleaner to Stairs
   • 0:00–0:01 Prepare Concrete Stairs

2. Step 2: Measure and Mark Treads

   • 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
   • 7:20–9:07 Measure and Cut Carpet

3. Step 3: Cut Carpet Treads

   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces (this video)
   • 3:07–3:56 Plan and Cut Carpet Pieces
   • 0:37–0:59 Measure and Cut Carpet

4. Step 4: Apply Adhesive

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
   • 0:09–0:25 Apply Flooring Adhesive
   • 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs

5. Step 5: Install Carpet Treads

   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread
   • 3:25–4:32 Secure Treads to Stairs

6. Step 6: Allow Adhesive to Cure

   • 3:06–3:19 Project Completion
   • 3:44–4:26 Final Curing and Caulking
   • 0:31–0:38 Inspect and Finish Installation