Measure and Cut Carpet Tread

What happens in this clip

Using a tape measure, accurately measure the width of the stair tread where the carpet will sit. The installer measures 12.5 inches. He then decides to add a half-inch to the measurement, cutting the carpet to 13 inches, to ensure a very snug fit, noting that a previous piece was 'a little tight.' Unroll the carpet and use scissors to carefully cut a straight line across the carpet, following the measured width.

Goal: Prepare a carpet piece of appropriate size for the stair tread.

What's used

Tools

• Scissors
• Tape Measure

Materials

• Carpet Roll

About the full video

This DIY project details the step-by-step process of installing carpet treads on a wooden staircase, covering everything from securing padding and precise carpet cutting to stapling and finishing the edges for a clean, professional look.

Step 1 of 8: Measure Tread Dimensions

Using a measuring tape, meticulously record the dimensions of each stair tread. For curved stairs, this involves measuring along the outer edge, the inner edge, and at the center point to capture the varying depth. Note any specific angles or breaks in the tread profile. This information is crucial for cutting the carpet treads to the correct size and shape.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Carpet Stair Treads on Curved Stairs

1. Step 1: Measure Tread Dimensions

   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread (this video)
   • 0:29–1:33 Prepare Stairs and Measure Grippers

2. Step 2: Create a Template for Each Tread

   • 1:15–3:04 Create Template for First Winder Step
   • 0:59–1:36 Creating Custom Templates for Each Step
   • 4:33–5:37 Create Template for Second Winder Step

3. Step 3: Cut Carpet Treads from Templates

   • 8:08–9:23 Cut Carpet Pieces
   • 6:52–8:08 Transfer Templates to Carpet Backing
   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces

4. Step 4: Prepare Stair Surface

   • 0:34–0:40 Clean the Stairs
   • 0:17–0:34 Prepare the Stairs
   • 0:00–0:05 Prepare Stairs and Treads

5. Step 5: Apply Adhesive

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
   • 0:04–0:08 Apply Spray Adhesive
   • 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs

6. Step 6: Attach Carpet Tread to Stair

   • 0:11–0:43 Install Remaining Carpet Stair Treads
   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 1:16–2:09 Install Carpet Treads with Adhesive

7. Step 7: Secure Edges and Trim

   • 3:53–7:38 Trim Excess Carpet and Prepare Final Riser
   • 2:25–3:45 Position and Secure Carpet Edges
   • 2:42–3:56 Secure the First Section with Staples

8. Step 8: Inspect and Clean Up

   • 3:59–4:29 Final Trimming and Inspection
   • 16:47–18:07 Final Review and Cleanup
   • 0:46–0:57 Final Inspection and Cleanup