Prepare Stairs and Measure

What happens in this clip

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the stairs. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust, pet hair, or debris. Then, use a damp cloth with an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down each stair tread and riser, ensuring they are free of dirt and grime. Allow the stairs to dry completely. Next, measure the width and depth of each stair tread. It's common for stairs to have slight variations, so measure each one individually. Decide on the placement of the carpet treads, typically leaving a consistent reveal on the sides and front of each stair. This will help determine the ideal size of your treads if you are cutting them, or guide placement if using pre-made ones. The video starts by showing the finished carpeted stairs, implying these preparatory steps have already been completed.

Goal: Ensure stairs are clean and accurate measurements are taken for tread placement.

What's used

Tools

• Pencil
• Tape Measure
• Vacuum Cleaner
• Broom

Materials

• All-Purpose Cleaner
• Damp Cloth

Pro tips for this step

• Oak Valley Designs Pro Tip: Number your treads sequentially if they have slight size variations to ensure each fits perfectly.

These safety tips are AI-generated and have not been verified by a professional. They may be incomplete or incorrect. Verify independently against manufacturer instructions and local codes, and consult a qualified professional before relying on them. This is not a substitute for professional advice.

About the full video

This DIY project provides a comprehensive guide to installing carpet treads on existing stairs. The goal is to enhance safety and comfort, particularly for pets like dogs, by providing increased traction and cushioning. The process involves preparing the stairs, selecting appropriate treads, and securely attaching them, resulting in a more pet-friendly and aesthetically pleasing staircase.

Step 2 of 3: Precision for Every Step: Measuring Your Stair Treads

With your landing measurements complete, let's focus on the individual steps that bring your staircase to life. For every flight of stairs, both leading up to and away from your landing, take the time to measure each individual tread with care. Start by measuring the full width of each tread, from one edge to the other. Next, measure the depth of each tread, stretching from the vertical riser to the front edge of the nosing. This precision ensures your Oak Valley Designs treads are custom-made to fit perfectly. If you notice any slight variations in size between your treads – which is perfectly normal in many homes – simply number them sequentially. This simple trick will help you keep track of each unique measurement, ensuring every tread contributes to a safe, stylish, and perfectly fitted staircase.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in how to measure a staircase with a landing for carpet stair treads

1. Step 1: Your Landing's Blueprint: Measuring It As a Separate Piece

   • 1:10–1:26 Measure and Customize Tape Outline
   • 0:07–0:30 Measure Bullnose Edge Width
   • 0:30–0:48 Define Initial Perimeter with Tape

2. Step 2: Precision for Every Step: Measuring Your Stair Treads

   • 0:54–1:39 Measure Stair Tread Depth
   • 0:21–0:53 Measure Stair Tread Width
   • 0:00–0:02 Prepare Stairs and Measure (this video)

3. Step 3: Bringing It All Together: Ordering Your Custom Landing and Treads

   • 0:07–0:30 Measure Bullnose Edge Width
   • 1:10–1:26 Measure and Customize Tape Outline