Measure the Stairs

What happens in this clip

To ensure the carpet runner is long and wide enough, accurate measurements are essential. First, select one stair tread (the horizontal top surface of a step) and measure its depth. Next, measure the height of the riser (the vertical part of the step). Multiply the height by the number of risers and the depth by the number of treads on your staircase. Add these two sums together, then add an additional 6 to 8 inches to account for waste. This total will be the required length of the runner. If using more than one runner, add an additional 12 inches to the total length to account for seams where the two carpet pieces will join. If your staircase includes a landing and you plan to install the runner there, ensure you include the landing area in your measurements.

Goal: Determine the correct length and width of the carpet runner needed for your staircase.

What's used

Tools

• Notepad
• Digital device
• Pencil
• Pen
• Tape Measure Stanley Fatmax

About the full video

This project provides a comprehensive guide on how to measure stairs, cut and install carpet padding, and then install a carpet runner on a flight of stairs. It covers both the 'wrap' and 'waterfall' installation methods and includes an optional step for adding decorative stair rods.

Step 2 of 4: Measure the landing depth

Measure the depth of the landing from the edge where the rug will begin to the opposite end. Write down this measurement.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Measure for a Landing Rug or Landing Pad

1. Step 1: Measure the landing width

   • 0:08–0:13 Measure the Width
   • 0:13–0:17 Measure the Length/Height
   • 1:38–3:34 Measure Horizontal House Dimensions

2. Step 2: Measure the landing depth

   • 1:04–2:19 Measure Top Landing Dimensions
   • 8:46–9:51 Measure Half Landing (Sub-Landing)
   • 0:26–1:13 Measure the Stairs (this video)

3. Step 3: Note any obstructions or irregular shapes

   • 1:04–2:19 Measure Top Landing Dimensions
   • 0:25–0:54 Sketching Deck Sections and Constraints
   • 3:09–4:52 Record All Measurements on Template

4. Step 4: Determine the desired rug size

   • 1:12–1:47 Select Appropriate Rug Size
   • 0:44–2:29 Determine the Right Rug Size
   • 1:34–1:49 Determine Rug Shape and Size