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 1 of 4: Measure Stair Dimensions

Carefully measure the width of each stair tread from one edge to the other. Then, measure the depth of each stair tread from the front edge to the riser. Record these measurements for each stair, as they will be used to cut or select the correct size of carpet treads.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Update Rental Stairs with Removable Carpet Treads

1. Step 1: Measure Stair Dimensions

   • 0:26–1:13 Measure the Stairs
   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 0:57–1:16 Measure Treads and Mark Laminate (this video)

2. Step 2: Clean Stair Risers and Treads

   • 0:34–0:40 Clean the Stairs
   • 0:18–0:31 Clean the Stairs
   • 0:09–0:45 Prepare and Clean Stair Treads

3. Step 3: Cut Carpet Treads to Size

   • 0:01 Cut and Size Carpet Treads
   • 0:18–0:33 Cut Carpet Pieces to Size
   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces

4. Step 4: Install Carpet Treads

   • 3:25–4:32 Secure Treads to Stairs
   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 0:06–0:14 Install Carpet Treads