Measure Treads and Mark Laminate

What happens in this clip

Using your measuring tape, accurately measure the width and depth of each individual stair tread. The depth measurement is taken from the very edge of the bullnose (the rounded, protruding part of the stair tread) to the face of the existing riser (the vertical board at the back of the step). It is crucial to measure each tread separately, as stairs are rarely identical in size or perfectly square. Once measurements are taken, record them on a notepad. Then, transfer these precise measurements onto the Cap-A-Tread laminate material, marking the cut lines clearly with a pencil.

Goal: Accurately measure each stair tread and mark the laminate pieces for cutting.

What's used

Tools

• Measuring Tape Stanley
• Notepad
• Pencil

Materials

• Cap-A-Tread Laminate Cap-A-Tread

About the full video

This project provides a comprehensive guide on how to install Cap-A-Tread laminate flooring on stairs. It covers the initial preparation, including the removal of old carpet and staples, precise measurement of treads and risers, cutting the laminate pieces to fit, and securing them with construction adhesive. The result is an updated, durable, and attractive staircase.

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
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate (this video)
   • 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