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 2 of 6: Measure and Mark Treads

Measure the width and depth of each individual stair tread. For most standard stairs, the depth will be from the nosing to the riser, and the width will be the span of the step. Transfer these measurements to the carpet treads, ensuring to account for any desired overlap or overhang. Use a chalk line or pencil to mark your cut lines clearly on the back of the carpet treads.

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 (this video)
   • 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
   • 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