How to install stair carpets yourself
Thursday, 21 April 2011 2:33 PM
The question of how to install stair carpets does not have to be a tricky one - the most important thing to remember is to give yourself plenty of time to carry out the job.
By not rushing, you are more likely to get the professional finish that you want and you will also reduce the risk of damaging the new floor covering you have just purchased.
There are many different materials to choose from and a similar process is used for each when it comes to fitting - although you should always check the manufacturer's instructions.
First you can choose which method you will fit your carpet with - you can either use one piece of material for each step, or use two separate pieces with one on the height of the step and the other on the bit you tread on. You should cut each piece to one inch larger than you need.
Before you start installing natural carpets on your stairwell, you should begin by removing any old material, staples or nails and give the space a thorough sweep. Then, take your time to carefully measure each step until you know how much material you will need to cut out for the entire staircase.
Make sure you carefully work this out so that you do not waste the fabric. If you are purchasing carpets online you may wish to do this before ordering so that you can make sure you have the right amount for the job.
Next, put on thick gloves and take a fastening strip and nail it to the edge where the back of the tread meets the vertical surface of the stair above. Do the same on the vertical face of the step just above it so that the two strips form a right angle with a gap between them.
You can then make a paper template of the measurements of the step, plus a little extra, and use it to cut out your carpet and padded underlay if necessary. The padding can be stapled down to the stair.
After attaching one end to one strip, the carpet fabric needs to be tightly pulled and then the opposite end attached to the strip below. You can then trim any excess off before repeating the process.
By taking your time and being patient, you could soon have a carpeted set of stairs you are happy to show off.
