How to Find Stair Rods

A stair rod, the metal "thingy" that sits in the crease between each stair and a riser, secures stair carpet in place. The device attained peak popularity through the latter part of the 19th and into the early 20th century. Stair rods began as inexpensive canes of bamboo or other readily available wood dowels, and metamorphosed into decorative devices made of brass, copper, pewter or combinations thereof. Whatever the material used, all designs successfully kept carpet secured to the stairs.

Tape measure

Instructions

- 1
  Select "of the period" types of stair rods. For example, if you have a Craftsman style of home, the type of stair rods commonly found in Victorian homes would look out of place. Measure the width of your stairs and make every effort to use the type of stair rods the original homeowners would have used.
- 2
  Combine the design and finish of stair rod material to complement the furnishings and décor of the area surrounding the stairs. A magnificent staircase rising from a beautiful foyer may call for polished brass stair rods whereas dark wooden dowels would suffice for a small back stairway.
- 3
  Consider the types of fasteners employed for holding the stair rods in place. Some rods require fastening with brass screws while others call for the use of nails with polished heads. When making any stair rod selection always choose the types and quantity of fasteners necessary for installation.

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