Measure Stair Tread Width
From how to measure your stairs for a carpet runner · Step 3 of 4 · Video by Oak Valley Designs
Showing 0:21–0:53 of the source video.
What happens in this clip
Start by measuring the entire width of your stair tread. This measurement typically goes from a spindle to the wall, or simply wall-to-wall if there are no spindles. For example, if the full width is 43 inches. Next, decide how much exposed wood you want to see on either side of the carpet stair tread. The recommendation is 2 to 4 inches per side. If you choose 4 inches per side, that's a total of 8 inches (4 inches + 4 inches). Subtract this total from the full stair width (e.g., 43 - 8 = 35 inches). This final number is the ideal width for your carpet stair tread.
Goal: Measure the total width of your stair tread and then calculate the desired carpet tread width by subtracting the amount of exposed wood you want on each side.
What's used
Tools
- Tape Measure
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
You're going to take a measurement from the spindle to the wall. It could be wall to wall, whatever your staircase looks like. and that is 43 in. Next, you're going to want to decide how much wood to see on either side of the carpet stair tread. So, we recommend 2 to 4 in of wood on either side. Let's go with 4 in for this order. And let's say 4 in + 4 in is 8. 43 - 8 is 35. So, a 35 wide stair tread is perfect for this step. Let's go to measurement number two.
Automatically transcribed from the source video.
Step 3 of 4: Getting the Width Right: From Wall-to-Wall or Edge-to-Edge
Now, let's tackle the width! For each tread, carefully run your tape measure across the front edge. This is key: always ensure your tape is perfectly parallel to the back edge of the tread where it meets the riser. If your beautiful stairs are nestled between two walls, measure straight from wall to wall. If one side of your staircase is open, measure precisely from the outer edge of the tread to the inner edge. For that polished, custom-fit aesthetic – the kind that truly elevates your staircase – a common practice for residential treads is to leave about a 1-inch space on each side. So, for example, a 36-inch wide stair would beautifully accommodate a 34-inch wide tread, giving you that clean, bordered look that says 'quality and care.'
Other videos for this step
how to measure your stairs for a carpet runner
Ready to transform your staircase with beautiful, custom-fit carpet treads? This empowering DIY guide will walk you through each step of accurately measuring every individual tread on your straight staircase. We'll show you why measuring each step separately is key – especially in older homes – to guarantee a flawless, custom fit that brings safety, style, and peace of mind to your home. Get ready for a better way to tread!
Read the full guide Browse all guides
Planning this project? Shop Oak Valley Designs.