How to Measure a Stair Runner: The Master Installer’s 2026 DIY Guide

Planning a DIY project? A custom stair runner is the single best way to transform your home on a budget. Whether you're in a character home in Victoria or a new build in the GTA, getting your measurements right is the difference between a pro finish and a disaster.

I’m going to show you exactly how to measure your stairs so you can order the perfect amount of carpet from our Hamilton shop—no wasted money, no running short.

Step 1: Calculating the Total Length (Linear Feet)

For a standard straight staircase, don't overcomplicate it. Use my "19-Inch Rule":

1. Count your stairs: Total number of steps from bottom to top.
2. The Math: Multiply that number by 19 inches (this covers the average tread and riser).
3. The Top Riser: Add one extra "top riser" (usually 7-8 inches) that leads to your landing or hallway.
4. Convert to Feet: Divide the total inches by 12.

Installer Secret: The "Safety Foot"

Once you have your final number, add one extra foot. In my 30 years, I’ve never had a customer complain about having 12 inches of leftover carpet, but I’ve seen plenty of hearts break when they come up 2 inches short. If your math says 18 feet, order 19 feet.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Width

Width is about style, but it’s also about hiding "sins." How much wood do you want to show?

Older Staircases (The "3-4 Inch Rule")

If your stairs are older or the wood is a bit beat up on the edges, you might be tempted to go wide. But listen to me: Leave at least 3 to 4 inches of wood showing on each side. Why? Because no staircase is perfectly square. That gap makes it much harder for the eye to notice if you have to slightly "course correct" the runner during a DIY install.

Modern New Builds:

• 26-Inch Runner: Very popular in modern, narrow homes in Vancouver or Toronto.
• 28-Inch Runner: The industry standard. On a 36-inch stair, this leaves a perfect 4-inch "frame" of wood.
• 30-Inch+ Runner: Best for wide, grand staircases where you want maximum comfort.

Step 3: What You’ll Need

Before ordering from DirectCarpetRunners.ca, grab these three things:

1. Tape Measure: Measure your tread (flat part) and riser (vertical part) just to confirm they are standard (approx 19" combined).
2. Stringer to Stringer Measure: Measure the total width of your stairs to make sure your chosen runner width fits comfortably.
3. A Pen: Note down the number of steps—and don't forget the landings! If you have a 90-degree turn, we cut those custom in our Hamilton shop.

Conclusion: Invest Once, Do It Right

Proper measurement is the foundation of a masterpiece. At DirectCarpetRunners.ca, we don't just sell carpet; we provide a complete DIY kit. We hand-finish every runner in Hamilton, include Free Premium Underpad, and offer Free Shipping across Canada on orders over $250.

I’m Keith Shannon. I’ve been a pro installer for over 30 years. If you get stuck with your measurements, chat with me live on the site—I'm here to make sure your stairs look incredible.

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• "Have exactly 12 stairs? See our specific 12-stair runner length guide for the perfect fit."

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