How To Measure A Stair Runner: Step-by-Step Guide with Expert Tips and Tricks
- Jensen
- Apr 7
- 7 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
If you're embarking on the quest to spice up your staircases, it can sometimes feel like you need an engineering degree! Fear not, because measuring for your perfect stair runner doesn't have to be a daunting task. Just a few measurements and learning of a term or two can get you most of the way in creating a truly beautiful home!
At The Natural Rug Company, we believe that adding a runner to your stairs can truly transform your hallway and upper floors into welcoming and stylish passageways. Not only does a stair runner protect your beautiful hardwood from scuffs and quieten those tell-tale creaks, but it also adds an undeniable touch of elegance.
Before we grab our measuring tape (and maybe a cuppa!), take a look at our range of inspiring Stair Runners and then lets walk through how to get those measurements spot on!
The Rise and the Tread: Stair Terminolgy
An image I repeatedly return to is the one below. Early on I made this to keep myself square when it came to all the different terms attached to staircases.
Top Section (Stair Anatomy)
Total Rise: The vertical distance from the bottom floor to the top floor (measured from finished floor to finished floor).
Total Run: The horizontal distance from the start of the stairs to the top, excluding any overhangs.
Rise: The vertical height of an individual step — from the top of one tread to the top of the next.
Run: The horizontal depth of an individual step (not including the overhang/nosing).
Tread: The part of the stair you step on — the flat, horizontal surface of each step.
Overhang/Nosing: The front edge of the tread that hangs over the riser below, providing a small lip for safety and comfort.
Stringer Length: The diagonal length of the stringer (the sloped support that holds the treads and risers).
Stringer Height: The vertical distance from the bottom of the stringer to where it touches the top support.
Angle: The incline or slope of the staircase, determined by the rise and run ratio.
Bottom Section (Mounting Styles)
Standard Mount: The stringer is mounted on the side of the support structure, making the steps visible from the side.
Flush Mount: The stringer is mounted so the steps are enclosed and flush with the supporting structure, giving a cleaner, more modern look.
Measuring Straight Stairs for a Stair Runner: The Classic Climb
For most of us, our stairs are nice and straight, making the initial measurements fairly straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need to measure:
Tread Depth
This is the bit you step on! Measure from the front edge (also known as the nosing) to where the vertical part of the next step (the riser) meets it. Note down this and try to do this for a few different steps to get a more accurate average.
Riser Height
Now for the vertical part! Measure from the top of one tread to the top of the next tread. Imagine a little ant climbing from one step up to the next – that’s the distance you’re measuring.
Stair Width
Take your measuring tape and go from one side of the staircase to the other for the full width. Make a note of this, as you’ll also want to consider how wide you’d like your runner to be. Many prefer to leave a little of their beautiful staircase flooring exposed on either side, typically around 10cm on each side for a lovely visual contrast.
Number of Steps: Every Step Counts!
This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial to get the right count.
Simply count the number of treads (the flat parts you step on) and the number of risers (the vertical parts) that you want your runner to cover.
Don't forget the first riser! If it's visible at the bottom of your stairs and you want your runner to include it as part of the design, be sure to count it.
Measuring Landings for Stair Runner: Where the Stairs Take a Break
Ah, the landing – a little pause in our upward journey! If your runner will continue in a single strip, just measure the landing length and add it to the total. But if you are measuring for the landing to be a carpeted area it is similar to measuring a rug for a room measure the square area.
Landing Length
Measure from where the stairs end to where they begin again (if it’s an intermediate landing) or to the wall if it’s the final landing.
Landing Width
Measure the full width of the landing and, just like with the stairs themselves, note your desired runner width.
If the runner turns on the landing: This is where things get a tad more interesting! You'll need to measure the diagonal or angled portion of the runner’s path. Imagine the runner as a straight line across the turn – that’s what you need to measure.
Sizing Tapered Stairs - Winders - Curved Steps : Those Tricky Turns
Winders, are those steps that are wider at one end than the other, usually forming a curve. Measuring these requires a little extra attention to ensure a good fit.
Tread Depth at Narrowest and Widest Points
For each winder, measure the depth of the tread where you envision the edge of your runner will be at its narrowest point and at its widest point. This helps ensure the runner sits nicely on the curve.
Stair Width at Narrowest and Widest Points
Similarly, measure the width of the stair itself at both its narrowest and widest points. This is essential for ensuring the runner aligns correctly as it turns.
Additional Measurements: Double-Checking is Key!
To really nail those measurements and give you peace of mind, consider these additional points:
Overhang (Nosing)
Measure how much each stair tread projects over the riser below. This is that little lip at the front of each step. Knowing this can be helpful if you plan for the runner to wrap around the nosing.
Staircase Total Length
For a good overall picture, measure from the bottom of the first step to the top landing, following the natural slope and contour of the stairs. You can do this easily with a piece of string, as suggested in our guide. Simply lay the string along the stairs as the runner would sit, mark the ends, and then measure the string.
Extra for Wrapping Edge
If you have a specific vision of the runner wrapping around the sides of your stairs or landings for a super neat finish, be sure to measure those additional widths and depths.
Putting It All Together
Once you have all these individual measurements, adding them up will give you a good indication of the total length of runner you’ll need. These elements allow you to cross-reference the measurement totals. It's always a good idea to measure twice and order once! We even suggest adding at least 20-30cm to your final length. It's better to have a little extra that can be trimmed during installation than to come up short – trust us, that's a staircase measuring tale we've heard more than once!
Measuring your stairs might seem like a lot of steps (pun intended!), but by breaking it down and paying attention to each part, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect stair runner to elevate your home’s style and comfort. And remember, if you ever feel unsure, our team is always here to help guide you!
The Final Step
This last step is going to be one of the easiest.
Ordering:
Many of our stair runners allow you to simply select your style and measurements and check out straight away. Check out our extensive range of curated Stair Runners.
Need something bespoke, we've got you covered - contact our helpful team with your measurements and any questions and we'll respond with a quote and advice in no time at all.
Stick around as I've a new post coming shortly that goes over How To Install A Stair Runner
Check out our Companion Guide - How to Install a Stair Runner
Measuring A Stair Runner: FAQ
How wide should a stair runner be?
Most people opt to leave about 10cm of exposed wood on each side for a balanced look, but the ideal width depends on your staircase and personal preference. Typical runner widths range from 60cm to 80cm for a standard staircase.
Can stair runners be fitted on winding or curved stairs?
Do I need underlay for a stair runner?
Can I install a stair runner myself?
How do I clean and maintain a stair runner?
What’s the typical lead time for a bespoke stair runner?
Can I get samples before placing an order?
What if my runner is too long when it arrives?
Can stair runners be used on painted stairs?
I’m not confident with measurements. Can you help?
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