Finish Edges and Remaining Treads
From How to Prep Stairs for Holiday Guests · Step 5 of 7 · Video by This Old House

Showing 3:58–4:31 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
After using the knee kicker, take a carpet chisel and firmly tuck the carpet into the crease between the tread and the riser, ensuring it's snugly against the wall and the tackless strip. For additional security on the remaining treads, use a pneumatic stapler to staple the carpet down, preventing further loosening.
Goal: Complete the carpet installation by tucking the edges using a chisel and stapling down the carpet on remaining treads for added security.
What's used
Tools
- Carpet Chisel
- Pneumatic Stapler
Materials
- Staples
About the full video
This video demonstrates how to reattach loose wall-to-wall carpet on a staircase. It showcases the use of tackless strips and a knee kicker for securing the carpet, emphasizing proper techniques to prevent future accidents. Please note that this video focuses on carpet installation using mechanical fasteners and *does not* provide instructions for 'Riser Attachment using Adhesive Glue' as specified in the request.
What's said in this clip
Now I'm going to move down close, drive it in again, All right. Now, because it's you, I'll staple off the rest of these treads cuz I don't want you getting hurt. >> Thank you. >> Screaming like a little girl. >> And what do I owe you for this? >> Well, don't worry. You owe me. You'll pay one way or the other.
Automatically transcribed from the source video.
Step 5 of 7: Tighten Loose Carpet or Treads
If carpet is loose, use a carpet kicker or tack strip to re-secure it. For loose wood treads, tighten any visible screws or nails. If the treads are very loose, professional repair may be needed. If there are carpet runners, ensure they are also securely fastened.
Every video in How to Prep Stairs for Holiday Guests
Step 1: Clear Stairs
- 1:17–1:46 Declutter Stairs
- 1:29–1:47 Clear and Dry-Dust Staircases
Step 2: Vacuum Treads and Risers
- 5:27–5:57 Vacuum Each Stair Step
- 1:46–3:30 Vacuum the Stairs
- 0:54–2:44 Vacuum the Staircase
Step 3: Spot Clean Stains
- 0:50–1:24 Pre-treat Stains and Spots
- 0:36–0:49 Spot Clean Stains and Targeted Areas
- 1:49–1:58 Spot Treat Area Rug Stain
Step 4: Inspect for Loose or Damaged Components
- 0:00–0:53 Assess Damage & Prepare for Repair
- 1:02–1:35 Visually Inspect for Staircase Wear and Damage
- 3:26–4:07 Prioritize Maintenance and Safety
Step 5: Tighten Loose Carpet or Treads
- 3:58–4:31 Finish Edges and Remaining Treads (this video)
- 0:00–0:05 Prepare the Loose Carpet Section
- 0:38–0:49 Screw Through Carpeted Treads
Step 6: Clean Banister and Handrail
- 5:58–6:12 Wipe Down Stair Banisters
- 0:50–0:53 Clean Banister Surface
- 3:40–4:10 Clean Handrails
Step 7: Add Festive Touches (Optional)
- 1:05–3:17 Decorate Staircase with Garlands and Ribbon
- 5:10–5:39 Decorate Staircase Railing
- 0:05–0:07 Adorn Staircase with Garland and Stockings
How to Prep Stairs for Holiday Guests
Prepare interior stairs for holiday guests by cleaning, ensuring safety, and adding festive touches.
Read the full guide Browse all guides
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