Measure Stair Tread and Riser
From How to Choose and Install Wool vs Synthetic Carpet Treads · Step 2 of 8 · Video by stairbuilding

Showing 0:18–0:49 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
Begin by accurately measuring the overall width of your existing stair tread. For the example, a 10-inch tread is used. Next, measure the distance from the center of the first step to the inside of the riser. This specific measurement will be needed if you intend to use the width of the riser for the strips to be installed later. These measurements are crucial for creating precise templates.
Goal: Gather necessary dimensions for templating
What's used
Tools
- Measuring tape
About the full video
This project provides detailed instructions on how to install a round tread on the first step of an existing stairway. It involves creating custom half-circle templates, assembling layered wood pieces for the tread, securing a support block, and then attaching curved wood strips to form the riser around the new rounded step.
Step 2 of 8: Measure Staircase Dimensions
Using a tape measure, record the exact width of each stair tread from the front edge to the wall or edge of the adjacent tread. Then, measure the depth of each tread from the nosing (front edge) to the riser (vertical part of the step). It's crucial to measure each tread individually, as stair dimensions can vary slightly.
Every video in How to Choose and Install Wool vs Synthetic Carpet Treads
Step 1: Choose Carpet Tread Material
- 4:26–5:07 Understand Wool Rug Properties
- 0:37–0:54 Overview of Rug Materials
- 7:51–8:45 Choosing Rugs for Specific Rooms
Step 2: Measure Staircase Dimensions
- 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
- 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
- 0:18–0:49 Measure Stair Tread and Riser (this video)
Step 3: Purchase Carpet Treads
- 0:02–0:04 Acquire and Prepare Carpet Treads
Step 4: Clean Stair Treads
- 0:34–0:40 Clean the Stairs
- 0:36–0:41 Clean and Smooth Stairs
- 0:09–0:45 Prepare and Clean Stair Treads
Step 5: Apply Adhesive
- 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
- 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs
- 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread
Step 6: Install Carpet Treads
- 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
- 0:59–2:07 Install First Stair Tread
- 1:16–2:09 Install Carpet Treads with Adhesive
Step 7: Trim Excess Material
- 0:09–0:56 Trim Excess Carpet and Complete Installation
- 0:16–0:25 Trim Excess Carpet Along Edge
- 3:59–4:29 Final Trimming and Inspection
Step 8: Allow Adhesive to Cure
- 27:37–29:21 Curing and Final Reveal
- 3:44–4:26 Final Curing and Caulking
- 2:21–2:38 Complete Installation and Caulk Gaps
How to Choose and Install Wool vs Synthetic Carpet Treads
A high-level outline for choosing and installing carpet treads, covering material selection (wool vs. synthetic) and the installation process.
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