Visualize Tread Size with Tape
From how to measure stairs for carpet stair treads · Step 5 of 5 · Video by Oak Valley Designs
Showing 1:39–1:54 of the source video.
What happens in this clip
To ensure you are happy with the chosen carpet tread size, use painter's tape to outline the calculated width and depth on your actual stair treads. This allows you to visually account for elements like corner posts, spindles, and walls. If you find you want to see more carpet, you can adjust the tape outward and add a couple of inches to your order. Conversely, if you prefer to expose more wood, you can move the tape inward and make your tread smaller. This visual step is a reliable way to finalize your desired carpet stair tread dimensions.
Goal: Use painter's tape to mark out the proposed carpet tread dimensions on your stairs, allowing you to visually confirm the fit and make any necessary adjustments before placing an order.
What's used
Tools
- Painter's Tape
About the full video
This video provides detailed instructions on how to accurately measure stair treads for custom carpet installations. It covers measuring both the width and depth of each tread, offering guidance on how to adjust these measurements to achieve the desired aesthetic of exposed wood. A helpful tip for visualizing the final fit using painter's tape is also included to ensure satisfaction before ordering.
What's said in this clip
I want to share with you just a little helpful tip to make sure that you're happy with the size tread that you're ordering and that it works great on your staircase. You can take in account for your corner post, your spindles, your walls, and make sure it's exactly what
Automatically transcribed from the source video.
Step 5 of 5: Find the Right Fit for Your Oak Valley Designs Carpet Tread
You have your numbers, so now let's turn them into the right tread size. A carpet tread should never match your step exactly. That small amount you take off is precisely what gives you a snug, safe, finished-looking fit. Start with depth: subtract 1/4 to 1/2 inch from the depth you recorded. That bit of clearance lets the tread sit flat and tight instead of buckling at the nosing, which is what keeps it secure underfoot. Now for width: subtract 2 to 4 inches from your measured width. How much you take off here is purely a style choice. A smaller deduction gives you a fuller, more carpeted stair, while a larger one leaves more of your beautiful wood revealed on each side. Oak Valley Designs treads come in three standard widths: 27 inches, 31 inches, and 35 inches. Compare your adjusted width against those three and choose the closest fit. If your stairs land between sizes, vary from step to step, or you are simply not sure which way to go, reach out and our team will help you land on the right size before you order.
Other videos for this step
how to measure stairs for carpet stair treads
Ready to elevate your staircase with beautiful, safe, and custom-fit carpet treads? This DIY-friendly guide walks you through the essential steps to accurately measure each individual step of your straight staircase. Precision is key! We'll cover how to get exact width and depth measurements, especially crucial for those charming older homes where steps can vary. Follow our expert advice to record and label your measurements for a truly custom fit, ensuring your new Oak Valley Designs treads bring both safety and style to your home.
Read the full guide Browse all guides
Planning this project? Shop Oak Valley Designs.