At LKL, we provide a complimentary measuring service. We understand that not everyone feels comfortable measuring their own flooring, and we understand that (especially stair cases) can be tricky to measure.
However ,in this blog I’ll explain how to measure for a staircase in case you ever want to do it yourself.
We will start with a straight flight of stairs. This is a staircase that has no twists or turns, just goes from the hallway to the landing.
Measure From the top of the stairs to the bottom
Take the tape measure and measure from the top of the staircase and run it straight down. This is because, when the carpet is fit, this is the way the pile direction of the carpet will go.
Measure the Treads and Risers.
First, we need to distinguish which is which.
The TREAD is the part of the step that you step on (AKA the depth). The RISER is the back of the step (AKA Height).
You tread on the step and rise your foot to get to the next one.
The tread and riser should be the same on all the stairs, however its always best to check, we will also need the width of the stair too.
Once you have this information, count how many steps you have. (most houses have 13 stairs)
Measure the landing/ Hallway
We find the easiest way to measure the landing and hallway is to draw a plan. This way you can make a note of any doorways or alcoves that may be there and we can adjust the amount of carpet needed accordingly.
If you have a ½ Landing.
Measure the length as you would a straight stair, but stop at the half landing.
Repeat the process for the remaining stairs.
Measure each tread and riser, as you would a straight flight. Leave the ½ landing, repeat for remaining stairs.
To measure ½ landing measure from the wall over the step to the next tread, and measure the width of the ½ landing. (see below)
Winding stairs.
Much like the ½ landing, the measurements are going to be taking in the full tread and riser calculations. We are wanting to determine the width at the widest point.
That to me sounds complicated, so ill break it down.
Each stair will need to be measured as sometimes they can vary in size, especially with winding stairs, or kite stairs as they are known.
Get your tape measure and measure the straight stairs’ treads and risers.
At the first curved stair take your tape measure and put it at the bottom of the riser (see Pic)
Then run the tape measure from there, over the step and into the crease, where the tread meets the riser.
Then we need a width (see pic) we need this at the widest point. So, measure right along the steps edge.
The next step will be different, so again look for the widest points. Tape measure in the corner, out, and straight over the step. Then measure your widest point.
Repeat for every winding stair.
That’s all there is to it. It is complicated, but like I said we have a complimentary service, so if you want to have a try, then we can always come and double check.