Repeat for Remaining Treads and Final Checks

What happens in this clip

After all edges are trimmed and tucked, double-check the entire tread for any remaining loose spots or bubbles. If any are found, use the carpet kicker to re-stretch the area and the carpet tucker to re-secure the edges. Take extra care to ensure all tack strip pins are hammered down flush with the carpet to prevent snagging. The process for installing carpet on subsequent treads is the same: pre-form, position, staple and tuck the back edge, stretch with the kicker, tuck the side edges, trim any excess, and finally, trim and tuck the front edge of the next tread. Make sure the direction of any pattern is consistent. For stairs where stapling underneath is difficult, ensure staples are placed close to the edge of the tack strip and then hammered down.

What's used

Tools

• Carpet Kicker
• Carpet Tucker
• Electric Staplegun
• Hammer
• Utility Knife

About the full video

This video provides detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to install carpet on stair treads using various trim tools to achieve a clean, professional finish. It covers preparing the stairs with tack strip and underpad, precise carpet cutting, and techniques for stretching, stapling, and tucking the carpet for a polished look.

Step 5 of 5: Trim Edges and Secure

Once the treads are in place, inspect the edges. If there is any slight overhang or unevenness, carefully trim it with a sharp utility knife. For extra security, especially on spiral stairs where edges can be more prone to lifting, consider using small, discrete carpet tacks or staples along the very edge of the tread, driven into the metal. Ensure these fasteners are not a tripping hazard.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Carpet Treads on Metal Spiral Stairs

1. Step 1: Clean Metal Spiral Stairs

   • 0:16–0:24 Clean and Prepare Staircase Substrate
   • 3:28–4:20 Rinse and Dry Stairs

2. Step 2: Measure and Cut Carpet Treads

   • 7:20–9:07 Measure and Cut Carpet
   • 6:25–8:58 Measure and Cut Carpet Sections
   • 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread

3. Step 3: Apply Adhesive to Treads

   • 1:16–2:09 Install Carpet Treads with Adhesive
   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
   • 0:04–0:08 Apply Spray Adhesive

4. Step 4: Install Carpet Treads

   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 1:16–2:09 Install Carpet Treads with Adhesive
   • 0:05–0:18 Install New Self-Adhesive Carpet Stair Treads

5. Step 5: Trim Edges and Secure

   • 0:43–1:28 Position and Secure Carpet Runner
   • 4:16–5:03 Tuck and Staple Carpet Edges
   • 22:17–35:01 Repeat for Remaining Treads and Final Checks (this video)