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: Prepare Carpet Treads (If Necessary)

Some carpet treads may need to be cut to fit custom stair dimensions. If your treads are oversized, carefully measure and cut them using a sharp utility knife or heavy-duty scissors. Ensure the cuts are straight and clean to maintain a professional appearance.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Put Carpet Treads on Already-Carpeted Stairs

1. Step 1: Clean Existing Carpet Surface

   • 0:34–0:40 Clean the Stairs
   • 0:09–0:45 Prepare and Clean Stair Treads
   • 0:18–0:31 Clean the Stairs

2. Step 2: Measure and Mark Tread Placement

   • 0:10–0:16 Measure and Mark Stair Tread Placement
   • 0:00–0:11 Measure and Align First Stair Tread
   • 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread

3. Step 3: Prepare Carpet Treads (If Necessary)

   • 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread
   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces (this video)
   • 0:37–0:59 Measure and Cut Carpet

4. Step 4: Apply Adhesive to Carpet Treads

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
   • 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs
   • 0:16–0:21 Apply Peel-and-Stick Carpet Treads

5. Step 5: Position and Press Carpet Treads

   • 0:13–0:21 Position and Secure Tread
   • 3:25–4:32 Secure Treads to Stairs
   • 0:16–0:21 Apply Peel-and-Stick Carpet Treads

6. Step 6: Allow Adhesive to Cure

   • 3:44–4:26 Final Curing and Caulking
   • 3:06–3:19 Project Completion