Guide

Installing Stair Runners: From Measuring to Maintenance

Stair Runner Installation

Are you looking to add style, comfort, and safety to your stairs? Installing a stair runner can transform an ordinary hardwood staircase into a warm and elegant focal point your home. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from initial measurements to final installation and care.

Step 1: Schedule a Free Measure

The first step in your stair runner journey is to schedule a free measure with Home Carpet One. This crucial step ensures that you order the correct amount of carpet and materials. During the measurement:

  • One of our dedicated estimators will visit your home and take precise measurements of your stairs
  • They'll note any unique features or challenges of your staircase
  • They'll bring you samples upon request

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful stair runner install!

Step 2: Select Your Stair Runner Carpet

With measurements in hand, it's time to choose your carpet. We recommend considering a few things as you make your selection:

  • Consider factors like durability, texture, color, and pattern
  • Test samples on your stairs to see how they look in different lighting
  • Think about how the runner will complement your home's decor

We typically recommend flat weave carpets for the best durability. Options include wool for durability and luxury, nylon for stain resistance, and natural fibers like sisal for a textured look.

You can browse hundreds of options online here or even more in our showroom!

Step 3: Decide on Hollywood vs. Waterfall Installation

Next, you'll need to choose between two installation styles:

Hollywood Installation:

  • Carpet is wrapped tightly around each step
  • Pros: Sleek, tailored look; shows off decorative stair brackets
  • Cons: More labor-intensive

Waterfall Installation:

  • Carpet falls straight down each step
  • Pros: Easier installation
  • Cons: Less formal look; doesn't showcase stair details; pad might be visible

Your choice will depend on your staircase style, budget, and personal preference!

Step 4: Select Serging, Binding, or Borders for the Edges of Your Runner

Another fun design choice to make! The edges of your stair runner need to be finished. You have the option between serging, binding, or borders.

Each of these choices comes in different colors and fabric types to suit your needs. You can learn more about each option in detail via this article.

Step 5: Install Your Stair Runner

We partner with the best installers in the flooring business who are true artisans when it comes to installing runners.

No matter what type of carpet or installation style you choose, installing a runner typically involves the following steps:

  • Preparing the stairs: Remove old carpet, sand damaged areas, and clean the stairs
  • Installing underlayment: Cut the padding to fit each step and secure it with staples or adhesive
  • Laying the runner: Secure the runner with staples and/or adhesive, ensuring the runner is centered and taught
  • Trimming and finishing: Cut away excess carpet and serge/fabricate the edges on site with your selection
Step 6: Take Care of Your Runner

To keep your new stair runner looking great:

  • Vacuum regularly to prevent dirt buildup
  • Address spills immediately to prevent staining
  • Consider professional cleaning annually
Conclusion

Installing a stair runner is a fantastic way to enhance your home's aesthetics, reduce noise, and improve safety for pets, children, and elderly. By following these steps – from accurate measurements to choosing the right installation method and maintaining your runner – you'll enjoy a beautiful, functional addition to your staircase for years to come.

Ready to transform your stairs? Start by scheduling a free measure with Home Carpet One today!

Read related stories

Understanding Rug & Carpet Pattern Direction Guide

Understanding Rug & Carpet Pattern Direction

When shopping online at Home Carpet One, we will always default to running the direction of the pattern that our images show (lengthwise). If you would like to change the direction of the pattern, please reach out to us before making a purchase.  Read on for more details about pattern direction! What is pattern direction on area rugs, stair runners, and carpet?The direction of the pattern plays a crucial role in how area rugs, stair runners, and carpets with patterns look in your home. Pattern direction refers to the orientation of the design, such as chevrons or geometric shapes on the carpet.      Which direction do patterns typically run? Typically, patterns on a rug, a stair runner, or carpet are aligned parallel to its length. For example, a rug with a linear pattern like Danube (pictured below) has its stripes run vertically or lengthwise.    When and why would I want to change the pattern direction? In some cases, it might be preferable to change the direction of the pattern to maximize material, which tends to be more cost-effective, and/or avoid a seam. For example, if you were ordering a 12x15 area rug, it might make sense to change the direction of the pattern to save on material (and cost).    What do I need to do in order to request a pattern direction change? If you have any questions about pattern direction, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to help!  

Effective Ways to Cleaning Carpet Spills & Removing Stains Guide

Effective Ways to Cleaning Carpet Spills & Removing Stains

As a trusted Chicago carpet provider, we at Home Carpet One know a thing or two about keeping carpet looking its best. Our customers are always asking for the best way to clean up spills and get rid of stains, and the truth is, it depends on what you spilled and how long the stain has had to set. There’s more than one effective way to clean stains, and of course some stains (pet accidents, red wine) are more common than others (Pepto Bismol, for example). When it comes to cleaning carpet stains, trial and error can be risky, and some products that claim to be safe for carpets can end up doing more harm than good. Between Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Mother’s Day, we get lots of customers calling in asking about how to get rid of chocolate stains in carpet, so we thought we’d offer some advice on the subject. One of the best options is to use a non-flammable dry cleaning solvent or spot removal solution. When using a solvent, be careful not to pour it directly onto the carpet. Instead, apply the solvent with a clean cloth, sponge, or gentle brush. If the solvent reaches the backing of the carpet, it can damage the latex that connects the primary and secondary backings, so exercise caution. There are several acceptable solvents out there, including Capture, a brand that we carry at Home Carpet One. If you don’t have a solvent on hand, you can use a solution of liquid dishwashing detergent and water. Use one cup of warm water and no more than a quarter teaspoon of detergent. Using a stronger concentration can damage your carpet. Never use bleach detergents designed for automatic dishwashers, as these will almost certainly leave permanent stains and can destroy fibers. Also avoid laundry detergents. Although it may seem sensible to use laundry detergent on carpet, these detergents often contain fluorescent dyes than can dye the carpet fibers. If you do use a detergent solution, rinse the area thoroughly afterward to remove potentially harmful detergent residues. Another option is to use a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts of warm water. This simple solution is generally effective and is less likely to cause color changes than other common solutions such as ammonia solutions. If none of these methods solves your problem, you can always call a Chicago carpet cleaning professional. Professional cleaners have specialized equipment and powerful cleaning products that can remove stains too stubborn for conventional methods. As with any stain, chocolate stains can become more stubborn with time. If you aren’t successful in removing the stain yourself, do not hesitate to bring in the big guns as soon as possible.
Carpet Pad 101: Picking the Perfect Carpet Pad for Your Floors Guide

Carpet Pad 101: Picking the Perfect Carpet Pad for Your Floors

When it comes to installing new carpeting, area rugs, or stair runners, the carpet pad (also known as carpet cushion) you choose can make a big difference in comfort, durability, and overall performance. There are several types of carpet pads available, each with their own unique benefits and best use cases. In this article, we'll explore some of the top carpet pad options to help you select the right one for your home. Healthinex Memory Foam Pad  Description: The Healthinex Memory Foam Carpet Pad is a 3/8 inch thick, 10lb high-density foam pad that conforms to the shape of your feet for incredible comfort. It has a breathable moisture barrier and built-in anti-microbial protection. It’s our most popular carpet pad at Home Carpet One Use cases: Wall-to-wall carpet, hallway runners, and stair runners of any construction Benefits: Incredibly comfortable, waterproof, sound absorbent, and lowest VOC emissions of any pad Example product for this pad: Hera Carpet   Healthier Choice Memory Foam Pad  Description: The Healthier Choice Memory Foam Carpet Pad is a 1/2 inch thick, 10lb high-density foam pad that conforms to the shape of your feet for incredible comfort. It has a breathable moisture barrier and built-in anti-microbial protection. It is a thicker option than Healthinex, but isn't suitable for looped or woven carpets Use cases: Wall-to-wall carpet, hallway runners, and stair runners that aren't looped or woven Benefits: Incredibly comfortable, waterproof, sound absorbent, and lowest VOC emissions of any pad Example product for this pad: Hera Carpet   Ultra Magic Pad Description: Ultra Magic Pad is a 3/8 inch thick, 8lb bonded foam pad that extends the life of carpet while providing comfort and insulation Use case: Wall-to-wall carpet that is not machine woven or hand loomed Benefits: Comfortable, sound absorbent, and made from 100% recycled materials Example product for this pad: Favorite Path Carpet   Luxury Pad Description: Luxury Pad is a 7/16 inch thick, 6lb bonded foam pad that extends the life of carpet while providing comfort and insulation Use case: Plush wall-to-wall carpet Benefits: Comfortable, sound absorbent, and made from 100% recycled materials Example product for this pad: Jazzy Carpet   Felt Pad Description: Felt Pad is made from compressed wool or synthetic fiber that extends the life of carpet while providing comfort and insulation. It has a firm feel that is required for woven carpets, stair runners, and commercial projects Use case: Hand loomed and machine woven wall-to-wall carpet, hallway runners, and stair runners Benefits: Comfortable, durable and mold-resistant Example product for this pad: Addington Carpet   Super Move Not Pad Description: Super Move Not Pad is made of synthetic fibers with rubber, non-slip backing that extends the life of area rugs while providing comfort and insulation Use case: Area rugs Benefits: Comfortable, sound absorbent, and no slip Example product for this pad: Ashford Area Rug   Tred Mor Pad Description: Tred Mor Pad is a 1/4 inch thick, dense pad made from compressed synthetic fibers that extends the life of carpet while providing comfort and insulation Use case: Commercial or high traffic carpet Benefits: Extremely durable, resists mold and moisture, and long-lasting Example product for this pad: Grand View Carpet   Recap No matter if you're installing carpet in a high-traffic living room, creating a custom rug for a cozy bedroom, or covering your stairs, the right carpet pad can make all the difference. From supportive memory foam to water-resistant rubber, there are plenty of options to meet your needs and budget. Let us know if you have any other questions as you review the different carpet pad choices available.
1
My sample box
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
You can order 5 samples for $5 View cart