Stair Rod Installation

Stair Runners

• Find a stair runner material that complements your home decor and matches the wood finishing of your staircase. Consider darker colors because they don't reveal dirt as easily as lighter colors. Installation of a stair runner is pretty straight forward for a single flight of stairs provided the stairs aren't circular. Once you have your stair runner in place you can consider your options for installation of stair rods.

Selecting a Stair Rod

• Select a stair rod style that complements your woodwork and your carpeted stair runner. They come in a wide variety of styles and colors ranging from smooth brass, silver or black to matte gray to ribbed rods in a variety of metallic colors. Take a sample of your runner carpet when you go shopping for your stair rods to see how the various colors and styles match.

Stair Rod Installation

• Take accurate measurements of your stair runner. Typical runners are either 27 or 32 inches wide. Have the store where you buy your stair rods cut the rods at least 1 1/2 inch longer than the width of your runner. Make sure you also buy mounting brackets that match the style and color of your stair rods.

  You will need a drill and a screw driver to complete the installation. Lay your stair rod in place on the first step and put the mounting brackets on either end. Make sure the rod is centered on the runner. With a pencil put a mark on the staircase through each of the screw holes in the mounting brackets. Set the brackets aside and drill 1/16-inch pilot holes into the wood of the staircase at each mark. Attach the mounting brackets to the staircase treads and risers with the screws provided. Place the stair rod into the crease between the tread and riser and secure each end into the mounting bracket. Repeat the procedure for each stair on your staircase.