Measure Stair Tread Depth
From How to Measure Stair Tread Depth and Nosing Overhang · Step 1 of 4 · Video by Oak Valley Designs
Showing 0:54–1:39 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
Measure the full depth of your stair tread, from the back of the tread to the front edge (bullnose). For instance, if the measurement is 11 and 1/4 inches. It is crucial not to order this exact depth. Instead, subtract a small amount, typically 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch, from the total depth. This slight reduction ensures that the carpet stair tread sits tightly against the bullnose without hanging over, which is important for both aesthetics and safety. For example, subtracting 1/4 inch from 11 and 1/4 inches results in an 11-inch depth for your carpet tread.
Goal: Measure the full depth of the stair tread and then subtract a small amount (1/4 to 1/2 inch) to ensure a snug fit that prevents the carpet from overhanging the bullnose.
What's used
Tools
- Tape Measure
About the full video
This video provides detailed instructions on how to accurately measure stair treads for custom carpet installations. It covers measuring both the width and depth of each tread, offering guidance on how to adjust these measurements to achieve the desired aesthetic of exposed wood. A helpful tip for visualizing the final fit using painter's tape is also included to ensure satisfaction before ordering.
What's said in this clip
That's going to be your depth. Your depth is going to be all right. This measures 11 and 1/4. Okay, we're not going to order 11 and 1/4. We're going to subtract a/4 in and we're going to order an 11. So that'll give us a little space in the back, which is perfect. And what you want so that the carpet stair tread is really tight on this front bullnness. You do not want that to hang over. And that's really important. You could also say, well, I can either subtract a/4 in or a/ in would also be fine. It doesn't have to be an absolute perfect science. You just want a little space in the back. So, anywhere from a/4 in to a/ inch is perfect. And that's it. So, I would do a 35 by 11 and that would be great.
Automatically transcribed from the source video.
Step 1 of 4: Measure Stair Tread Depth
Place a tape measure at the very front edge of the stair tread, ensuring it is flush with the nosing. Extend the tape measure straight back along the tread surface until it meets the riser (the vertical part of the step). Record this measurement as the tread depth.
Every video in How to Measure Stair Tread Depth and Nosing Overhang
Step 1: Measure Stair Tread Depth
- 0:54–1:39 Measure Stair Tread Depth (this video)
- 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
- 0:24–0:56 Understanding Tread Depth and Nosing
Step 2: Measure Nosing Overhang
- 0:55–1:13 Measure and Mark Tread and Nosing
- 5:03–6:09 Determine Tread Overhang and Length
- 0:28–1:15 Measure and Mark Nosing Length
Step 3: Measure Total Tread Depth (Including Nosing)
- 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
- 0:54–1:39 Measure Stair Tread Depth
- 0:31–1:01 Measure Riser Height and Tread Depth Consistency
Step 4: Record Measurements
- 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate
- 0:31–1:01 Measure Riser Height and Tread Depth Consistency
- 0:55–1:13 Measure and Mark Tread and Nosing
How to Measure Stair Tread Depth and Nosing Overhang
Outline for measuring stair tread depth and nosing overhang for DIY projects or renovations.
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