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 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.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Choose and Install Wool vs Synthetic Carpet Treads

1. 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

2. Step 2: Measure Staircase Dimensions

   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate (this video)
   • 0:18–0:49 Measure Stair Tread and Riser

3. Step 3: Purchase Carpet Treads

   • 0:02–0:04 Acquire and Prepare Carpet Treads

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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