Prepare Stairs and Measure Grippers

What happens in this clip

Before starting, remove any old carpet or flooring from the stairs to expose the bare treads. Using a measuring tape, measure the width of the stairs from wall to wall. It's crucial to check multiple stairs as their widths may vary. For the carpet grippers, cut them about 5mm (approximately 1/4 inch) shorter than the stair width on each side. This small gap allows for the carpet to be neatly tucked in later.

Goal: Measure the stairs for carpet grippers

What's used

Tools

• Measuring Tape

About the full video

This project provides a comprehensive guide on how to fit your own stair carpet. It covers essential steps from measuring and cutting carpet grippers and underlay to installing them securely, and finally fitting the carpet itself, ensuring a professional and neat finish for a DIY enthusiast.

Step 1 of 8: Measure Tread Dimensions

Using a measuring tape, meticulously record the dimensions of each stair tread. For curved stairs, this involves measuring along the outer edge, the inner edge, and at the center point to capture the varying depth. Note any specific angles or breaks in the tread profile. This information is crucial for cutting the carpet treads to the correct size and shape.

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 (this video)

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
   • 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