How to Measure a Stair Carpet Like A Pro

When you’re planning a new stair carpet, getting the measurements right is essential. Not only do accurate measurements help you to estimate the costs you’re going to need to budget for, but it also means you’ll walk into the showroom (or meet your fitter) feeling confident that you know what will and won’t work for your home.

And don’t panic if that sounds daunting! GOFLOORIT can help with measurements, contact our expert team if you need a hand.

So, let’s get to it. How do you measure a stair carpet like a pro? We’ll start with the tools.

Tools You’ll Need

 

Measuring doesn’t require much, but being organised helps. Make sure you have these items to hand when you start:

• A reliable tape measure (preferably one that is at least 5m and doesn’t snap the ends of your fingers when it recoils).

• A notepad or notes app on your phone.

• A calculator for quick totals.

• A camera/phone for taking reference pictures.

  
  

Pro tip: When taking photos of your staircase, make sure to include any quirks like winders, turns, or small landings. Pictures speak a thousand words and make it much easier to explain what you need when discussing options with our experts in the showroom.

Step-by-Step: How to Measure a Stair Carpet Like A Pro

Now you’ve got the tools sussed. Here’s a simple guide to measuring different staircase layouts. And don’t forget, if you need help – you can always contact us for a chat.

1. Straight Stairs

These are the simplest type to measure. You need to:

1. Measure the tread (the flat part you step on) from the back to the front edge (known as the nosing).

2. Measure the riser (the vertical part) from the base to the top.

3. Add tread + riser together for one “unit length.”

4. Multiply this by the number of steps.

   
   

For example:

• Tread = 25cm, Riser = 20cm. Unit length = 45cm.

• With 13 stairs, total = 585cm (5.85m).

  
  

Pro tip: Always measure a few stairs individually — sometimes the bottom or top steps are deeper than the rest.

2. Half Landings or Quarter Turns

Many staircases have a small flat area where the stairs change direction. For these sections:

• Measure the length and width of the landing as if it’s a separate rectangle.

• Add this figure to your total stair measurement from the first calculation in point 1.

  
  

Pro tip: Don’t forget to include the riser at the start and end of the landing — it’s easy to miss.

3. Winder Stairs (Triangular Steps Around a Turn)

These need a little more care:

• Measure the widest part of each triangular step (the outer edge).

• Measure the narrowest part (the inside corner).

• Average the two figures, then add riser height.

  
  

Multiply by the number of winder steps.

Pro tip: Take a quick photo of each winder step and jot measurements underneath — it avoids confusion later. And if you need help, give us a call. Our in-house experts will be delighted to answer your questions.

4. Spiral Stairs

Spiral staircases are trickier, but the principle is the same.

• Measure the outer tread width and riser.

• Count the total number of steps.

• Add a small margin for pattern alignment, as each step can vary slightly.

  
  

Pro tip: For spirals, a professional check is vital — but your rough figures will still help in budgeting and shortlisting styles. And taking some photos will really help if you visit our showroom.

5. Oddities and Extras

Every staircase is unique, and small details add up. So, watch out for:

• Bullnose steps (curved at the bottom) – measure across the widest point.

• Top landings leading into bedrooms or hallways – measure like any rectangular room.

• Overhangs/nosings – always include them in your tread measurement.

  
  

Common Measuring Mistakes (and How Pros Avoid Them)

Even the most careful DIY measurers can make errors, though. So here are some frequent ones to watch out for:

• Don’t forget the nosing (that small overhang on each tread).

• Don’t round down, round measurements up “to be safe”.

• Remember to include and count small risers at half landings.

• Remember you will need extra carpet for stripes or patterned designs.

  
  

At GOFLOORIT, our fitters have years of experience, so we can guide you on how to catch all these details in advance; plus, you’ll understand exactly why we recommend the quantity of carpet we do.

How Measuring Correctly Will Help You Choose Your Carpet

Once you’ve gone through the pain of collecting your measurements, what additional benefits to all this hard work will you get that help you choose the right carpet? More than you realise! This process will help you:

• Check suitability – Heavier pile carpets may not wrap neatly around tight winders.

• Compare durability and costs– For high-traffic stairs, knowing your total square metres helps weigh up costs between budget and premium ranges.

• Plan for patterns – Stripes are hugely popular on stairs, but they require precision. Having measurements in hand may help you visualise where the stripes will sit.

• Balance safety considerations – Low-pile or loop carpets may be safer for households with children or elderly relatives, reducing trip risks.

  
  

Our Expert Team of Fitters Are Always Here to Help

Measuring stairs can feel tricky — every step, landing, and nosing adds a little extra complexity. But you don’t need to worry. Whether you’ve taken your own rough measurements or just want advice on your staircase layout, the GOFLOORIT team is on hand to guide you every step of the way.

Pop into our Towcester showroom or get in touch today to discuss your staircase requirements and see the wide range of carpets available. Our team will make sure your new stair carpet is the perfect addition to your home.