Trim Excess Carpet and Prepare Final Riser

What happens in this clip

After stapling the second tread, the video demonstrates securing the nosing and then trimming the excess carpet for the third (and final, in this case) stair riser and the top landing. Begin by using a utility knife to cut away the excess carpet and underpad that extends past the top edge of the final riser. Then, use a tape measure and pencil to mark the desired cut line on the carpet underpad for the top riser. You'll mark both sides and use a straight edge to connect them. Carefully cut along these marked lines with a pair of sharp scissors or shears. The binding (the finished edge of the carpet) is never as tall as the pile itself, creating a 'kick' that helps it fit snugly.

Goal: Cut the stair runner to the correct length for the final riser and top landing

What's used

Tools

• Pencil
• Scissors
• Straight Edge
• Metal yardstick
• Tape Measure Stanley
• Utility Knife

About the full video

This project provides step-by-step instructions on how to install a carpet stair runner on a set of three stairs. The process involves precise measuring, securely stapling the runner, tucking and shaping the carpet around the stair nosing, and trimming excess material for a clean, professional finish.

Step 7 of 8: Secure Edges and Trim

Ensure the edges of each carpet tread are pressed down firmly and adhered properly. If using a product that requires additional fastening, such as carpet staples or a tack strip along the riser, install them now. Carefully trim any minor excess carpet material that may be visible around the edges with a sharp utility knife for a neat and professional appearance.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Carpet Stair Treads on Curved Stairs

1. Step 1: Measure Tread Dimensions

   • 0:00–0:03 Measure Individual Stair Components
   • 0:12–0:57 Measure and Cut Carpet Tread
   • 0:29–1:33 Prepare Stairs and Measure Grippers

2. Step 2: Create a Template for Each Tread

   • 1:15–3:04 Create Template for First Winder Step
   • 0:59–1:36 Creating Custom Templates for Each Step
   • 4:33–5:37 Create Template for Second Winder Step

3. Step 3: Cut Carpet Treads from Templates

   • 8:08–9:23 Cut Carpet Pieces
   • 6:52–8:08 Transfer Templates to Carpet Backing
   • 2:09–3:19 Measure and Cut Carpet Pieces

4. Step 4: Prepare Stair Surface

   • 0:34–0:40 Clean the Stairs
   • 0:17–0:34 Prepare the Stairs
   • 0:00–0:05 Prepare Stairs and Treads

5. Step 5: Apply Adhesive

   • 0:05–0:06 Apply Adhesive to Treads
   • 0:04–0:08 Apply Spray Adhesive
   • 0:34–0:46 Apply Carpet Adhesive to Stairs

6. Step 6: Attach Carpet Tread to Stair

   • 0:11–0:43 Install Remaining Carpet Stair Treads
   • 0:04–0:06 Install Carpet Treads
   • 1:16–2:09 Install Carpet Treads with Adhesive

7. Step 7: Secure Edges and Trim

   • 3:53–7:38 Trim Excess Carpet and Prepare Final Riser (this video)
   • 2:25–3:45 Position and Secure Carpet Edges
   • 2:42–3:56 Secure the First Section with Staples

8. Step 8: Inspect and Clean Up

   • 3:59–4:29 Final Trimming and Inspection
   • 16:47–18:07 Final Review and Cleanup
   • 0:46–0:57 Final Inspection and Cleanup