How To Install A Vinyl Carpet Runner On Stairs
Posted on: 11 April 2018
If you have carpeted stairs, consider adding a vinyl stair runner. A vinyl stair runner attaches to the edge of the carpet, and it prevents slips as well as reduces wear and tear. A vinyl runner should last a long time without replacement, and the carpet is still visible through it. You should be able to install a vinyl stair runner on carpeted stairs yourself by following these tips.
Prepare to Install the Runner
To install the vinyl runner, gather:
- work gloves
- cotton rags
- tape measure or yardstick
- chalk
- pencil
- scissors
- craft knife
- sandpaper
- double-sided carpet tape or staples
- carpet cleaner (optional)
Vacuum the steps to remove dirt. If the carpet has stains, work a carpet cleaner into the stain with a cotton rag. Rinse according to directions, and let it dry.
Measure and Cut the Runner
Don't include the landing in measurements for runners, since it causes a tripping hazard. Measure the rise and run of one step, holding the measuring tape end where the tread contacts the riser. Add the measurements together, and multiply it by the number of steps, adding an extra 10% for waste.
For example, if the rise measures four inches and the run five inches, add four plus five to get nine. If there are 10 steps, multiply nine times ten to get ninety inches, then add ten percent for a total of 99 inches.
Measure the top of each step separately, and add it to the runner width. Divide this figure by two to get the center, and mark it on both sides. Write each step measurement on the runner, cut it with the craft knife to fit, and sand the edges.
Install the Runner
Carpet runners can be installed with tape or staples, but using tape helps prevent nail holes in the stairs. Set the runner down on the step on the marks, and check for evenness. Buy enough tape to make two strips for each step plus the landing.
Press the carpet runner down on the carpet, and wiggle the piece back and forth, so the teeth dig into the carpet. Fasten one strip of tape to the front of the step and lay another piece on the back of the step. Repeat the process until the stairs are covered, and clean chalk marks with a damp rag.
To staple the runner, unroll the runner over the bottom step edge. Staple the runner in the middle, the nose, and on each side, wiggling the stapler in fibers, if needed. Smooth the runner as you work. When you get to the last step trim the runner to fit under the landing nose. For more information on flooring installations and options, contact your local flooring service today.
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