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 Tread Placement

For each stair, measure the width and depth of the carpeted surface. Using a tape measure, determine the exact placement for the carpet tread. You may want to lightly mark the intended position with chalk or a fabric marker, ensuring the marks will be covered by the tread.

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 (this video)

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
   • 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