How to Install Carpet on a Staircase

Installing carpet on a staircase can make the stairs safer to walk on, as well as add style to a home. Carpeting can cover worn or scuffed stairs, making them visibly appealing again. Carpeted stairs are also warmer and more comfortable to walk on than wooden or concrete stairs. Installing carpet on a staircase is not a difficult procedure if you have the necessary tools available. You can save money by installing the carpet yourself, rather than hiring a professional.

Measuring tape
Tack strips
Staple gun
Knee kicker
Utility knife

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the entire staircase with a measuring tape to determine how much carpet you will need. Measure the horizontal part of a step to find the width of the stairs, and measure the vertical part of each step to find the length. Add 3 inches to the length of each step.
- 2
  Lay tack strips along the side of each step next to the wall. Staple the tack strips to the steps with a staple gun.
- 3
  Place the carpet evenly along each step, and stretch it from the center of each step using a knee kicker. Use the knee kicker by positioning your knees on the padded cushion and applying pressure from your knees to the carpet. Hook the carpet onto the tack strips on each step.
- 4
  Slide the knee kicker back and forth over each step to compress the pins. Trim any excess carpet from the staircase with a utility knife.
- 5
  Ensure that the carpet is smooth and even on each riser, and then staple the carpet along the edge of each riser. Staple every 2 inches to make sure the carpet stays in place.

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Carpeting