How to Install Stair Runners on Steps

Measure the width of the carpet runner and the width of the stair. To calculate the position for the runner, subtract its width from the width of the stair, then divide this number by 2. The dividend is the amount of space to allow between the edge of the stair and the edge of the carpet. For example, if the step measures 36 inches wide and the runner measures 30 inches wide, the amount of space between the edge of the carpet and the edge of the step is 3 inches (36 inches minus 30 inches equals 6 inches, divided by 2 equals 3 inches).

Measure from the sides of each step according to your calculation with a tape measure, then use a straight edge to draw a reference line. This is where the edge of the carpet runner will be positioned.

Measure and cut the carpet padding. The pad should be a total of 2 inches smaller in width than the width of the runner. For example, if the runner is 30 inches wide, the padding will need to be cut to a width of 28 inches. The length of the pad should be the length of the stair step from the back of the step to the front of the step (also called the stair nose).

Position the padding so that it is 1 inch from the back of the step, 1 inch in from each reference line and slightly hanging over the stair nose. Secure the pad in place with staples every couple of inches along the back edge and stair nose edge.

Cut one end of the stair runner square by placingt face down on a hard surface and using a square and a utility knife to make a straight cut.

Position the carpet runner on the first step between the marked lines so that the square cut end touches the floor and is flush against the floor. Staple this end of the carpet with eight to 10 staples to the riser (vertical face of the first step, as close to the floor as possible. Once the end is secure, pull the carpet up the riser tightly and staple it with eight or 10 staples just under the stair nose.

Stretch the carpet with a carpet stretcher from the front stair nose to the back of the next stair step and staple at the back crease. Once secure, pull the carpet up the riser and staple the carpet up under the stair nose of the next step. Repeat this process for all the steps.

Secure the runner to the last riser as in Step 7 before cutting any excess carpet. Finish by cutting the excess carpet as close as possible to the underside of the stair nose with a sharp utility knife.