Several decisions go into deciding on the next carpentry project for your home. Whether you are buying a carpet for the first time or tenth time, it is essential to know what color and style match your home. You also have to consider the quality and the material of the carpet.
Most carpets are sold by the square foot. Calculating length and width for most rooms is simple, but when it comes to stairs, the calculations are a bit more complex and, in some cases, may require a professional team to measure and install your new carpet.
Keep reading to discover how to measure stairs for carpet and ensure a perfect fit.
How to Measure Your Stairs for Carpet
The key to choosing the right carpet is to take the right measurements. When you are buying a new carpet for your stairs, you must measure the width and the length of the stairs in their proper proportions. Otherwise, you might end up short.
Here is how to measure carpet for stairs in three easy steps:
Step 1: Measure up
By using a flexible tape measure, determine the depth and rise of each stair. Make sure to hold the end of the tape at the stair’s bottom. Run it up the stair’s front face (called the riser) and across the top (called the tread) until you reach the next stair’s bottom.
After that, you will need to measure the width of each stair. Whether you are measuring stairs for a carpet runner or another type of carpet, you should always add two inches to the width and length of the carpet to cover the edges.
Step 2: Do the math
Start by counting the number of risers and multiply that number by the height. Then, multiply the number of treads by the depth. Don’t assume that the number of risers and treads will be the same (for example, if your second floor is hardwood, then the top step will have no tread).
Add those two numbers and multiply the result by the width measurement.
Step 3: Divide and conquer
Combining the above measurements will give you a large number. To convert it into square feet, simply multiply it by 144 (the number of inches in one square foot), and voila!
Measuring your stairs by yourself can save money, but always make sure you are confident in your calculations before ordering a new piece of carpet. When finalizing your measurements, double-check the numbers to ensure a perfect pit.
If you don’t know how to measure stairs for carpet or are afraid of making a mistake and ordering the wrong carpet size, don’t hesitate to consult a professional carpet installer.
At Remnant King Carpets, we are experts in measuring and installing all types of carpets, including stair runners. We will measure your stairs, make the necessary calculations, and install the right carpet according to your needs, style, and budget.
Contact us today at 206-745-6242 to discuss the details.