Measure Guide
How to measure for a stair runner
A first estimate is the number of steps × (tread depth + riser height), plus landings and installation allowance. Have a qualified stair-runner installer verify the final measurement and method before ordering.
Step-by-step
Count your steps (treads, not landings)
Walk up your staircase and count each step you stand on. The top of the staircase doesn't count — it's the landing. A typical residential staircase is 12–14 steps.
Measure one tread and one riser
Tread = depth of the step (front to back), usually 9–11 inches. Riser = height of the vertical face between steps, usually 7–8 inches. Pick a representative middle step; the top and bottom are sometimes irregular.
Calculate runner length per step
Tread + riser gives a planning estimate per step. A 10" tread + 7.5" riser = 17.5" per step, but nosing, installation method, and stair variation affect the final requirement.
Multiply by step count, then add landing inches
Use (steps × per-step length) + landing measurements as a planning total. Length options vary by product; ask the installer to specify the final allowance before selecting one.
Pick a width that leaves wood showing on each side
Compare the widths offered for the selected runner with the tread width. An even border of bare wood on both sides usually reads intentional; have the installer confirm the final placement.
Have the installer confirm allowance
Irregular treads, turns, seams, and the installation method change the material needed. Do not rely on a universal extra amount; have the installer confirm the order length.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using the staircase's wall-along length (the diagonal up the wall) — that's the rake measurement, not the runner-path length, and it can materially understate the required length.
- Treating a quarter-turn or half-landing as a standard allowance instead of having the installer measure its actual path and seam plan.
- Ordering from the planning estimate before a qualified installer confirms the final length and installation method.
Ready to order?
Cut and finished to order in our U.S. workshop. Open the full product details to see current ZIP-based delivery timing or a pre-order ship date.
Configure your runnerFrequently asked
Can I install a stair runner myself?
Stair installation affects fit and safety. We recommend using a qualified stair-runner installer, especially for turns, pie-shaped steps, unusual nosing, or any condition the product instructions do not address.
Do I need a separate stair runner pad?
The answer depends on the runner construction, installation system, stair surface, pad product, and installer guidance. Have the installer specify any pad and confirm its documented floor and sizing compatibility.
What's the difference between waterfall and Hollywood install?
Waterfall installation drops from the tread edge toward the next riser; Hollywood installation contours the runner into the tread-and-riser corner. Compatibility and material allowance vary, so confirm the method with the product details and installer.
Will the same runner work on a quarter-turn or pie-step staircase?
Do not assume it will. Angled treads, seams, pattern alignment, and installation method require product-specific planning; have a qualified installer review the staircase and runner before ordering.
More measure guides
Measure Guide
How to measure for a hallway runner
Many rooms look balanced with a border of bare floor around the runner, but the right margin depends on the hallway, doors, and widths the design offers.
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Measure Guide
How to measure for a kitchen runner
Choose the part of the kitchen you want the runner to define, then measure that path without crossing appliance doors, cabinet clearance, or other moving parts.
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