If you’re looking to upgrade your staircase with a beautiful stair runner, you might be wondering—should I install it myself or hire a professional?

The good news is, you can absolutely install a stair runner yourself with the right tools, techniques, and a little patience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know:

✔️ Step-by-step installation instructions

✔️ The best tools for the job

✔️ How to measure for a stair runner

✔️ Troubleshooting common mistakes

✔️ Pro tips to get a professional finish

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to install a stair runner like a pro—even if you’ve never done it before.

And if you decide you’d rather leave it to a professional, we’ll also cover how to find and hire a qualified installer.

Bonus: Stick around for an exclusive discount code and a chance to win your stair runner for FREE! 🎉

🏗️ Can You Install a Stair Runner Yourself?

✅ Yes! If you have basic DIY skills, you can install a stair runner yourself.

❌ No! If you’re uncomfortable using tools or working on stairs, consider hiring a pro.

💡 Pro Tip: The most important factor is patience—rushing through the installation can lead to crooked or uneven results.

🔍 Hiring a Professional vs. DIY Installation

Where to Find a Professional Carpet Installer

🔹 Google Search: Type “stair runner installer near me.”

🔹 Facebook Marketplace: Local professionals often advertise here.

🔹 Angi (formerly Angie’s List): Trusted professional listings.

🔹 Local Carpet Stores: Ask if they offer installation services.

💰 Pro Tip: Get at least 3 quotes before hiring an installer to compare pricing.

🔄 Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Installation: Which Method is Best?

There are two main methods for installing a stair runner:

1️⃣ Top-Down Method

✔️ Feels more like upholstery work

✔️ The runner is wrapped over the stair nose and stapled underneath

❌ Can be awkward—you’re kneeling on loose carpet

2️⃣ Bottom-Up Method (Recommended!)

✔️ The runner stays out of your way as you work

✔️ You’re always standing on a secured section

✔️ Best for beginners—ensures a straight installation

💡 I’ve been installing stair runners bottom-up for 20+ years, and I highly recommend it for stability and ease!

📏 How to Measure for a Stair Runner

The standard measurement is 19 inches per step, including:

✔️ Tread (horizontal part)

✔️ Riser (vertical part)

Carpet Length Calculator

• 12.5 stairs → Order 20 feet

• 13.5 stairs → Order 22 feet

• 14.5 stairs → Order 24 feet

💡 Always order extra to ensure full coverage!

📌 Bonus: Every order from DirectCarpet.com includes a premium underpad for added comfort and durability.

🛠️ Essential Tools for DIY Installation

To install your stair runner, you’ll need:

✔️ Electric Staple Gun (Roberts or Duo-Fast recommended)

✔️ 9/16” Crown Staples (compatible with electric staple guns)

✔️ Carpet Kicker (Roberts or Crane brand)

✔️ Stair Tool (Carpet Tucker)

✔️ Sharp Utility Knife (X-Acto or Roberts knife)

✔️ Hammer (to set staples if needed)

✔️ Glue Gun (optional for finishing edges)

📹 Pro Tip: Watch our step-by-step installation video for a breakdown of each tool (linked below).

🔧 Step-by-Step Installation Carpet Runner Install Guide

1️⃣ Prep Your Stairs

✔️ Remove any old carpeting, staples, and debris

✔️ Sweep and clean the stairs thoroughly

2️⃣ Install the Underpad

✔️ The underpad should be 1 inch narrower than your stair runner.

✔️ Secure the underpad to each step using staples.

3️⃣ Position the Runner

✔️ Roll out the stair runner from bottom to top.

✔️ Use a measuring tape to ensure it’s centered.

✔️ Check alignment before stapling.

4️⃣ Staple the Runner

✔️ Wiggle the staple gun between the carpet fibers to hide staples.

✔️ Staple every 2 inches along the tread, every inch under the stair nose.

✔️ Tap staples with a hammer if needed for a flush look.

5️⃣ Shape & Groove the Runner

✔️ Use a stair tool to press the runner into the corners.

✔️ Staple securely along the edges for a professional finish.

✔️ Ensure all grooves are sharp and uniform.

6️⃣ Finish at the Top

✔️ Trim any excess carpet carefully.

✔️ Secure the final riser using a scissor cut for a clean edge.

🚨 Common DIY Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

🚫 Crooked Runner → Measure & mark the center before stapling.

🚫 Visible Staples → Use the wiggle technique to hide staples.

🚫 Runner is Loose → Use a carpet kicker for a tight fit.

💡 Pro Tip: Watch our video tutorials for step-by-step visual guidance.

🎁 Exclusive Freebies When You Order from DirectCarpet.com!

✔️ FREE Premium Underpad (10mm foil-top, vapor-barrier)

✔️ FREE Step-by-Step Tutorial Videos

✔️ FREE Quick-Start Tool Guide

✔️ FREE Entry into the Stair Runner Makeover Contest

✔️ FREE Shipping

💰 Exclusive Discount: Use code (blog) at checkout for $25 OFF your order!

🤝 Need Help? We’re Here for You!

We’re real people answering your questions—not bots!

📞 Visit: DirectCarpet.com

📹 Watch our How-To Videos: Linked below

🛠️ Use our Free Stair Runner Calculator

💬 Have questions? Message us on live chat!

Conclusion

I Hope you Enjoyed this Awesome Stair Runner Tutorial Guide, Everything in the Guide comes from Real Knowledge and Carpet Installation Experience,

My Name is Keith Shannon I Have Been a Professional Carpet Installer for over 25 Years and all the Videos in this Guide were filmed by me, I also am a Stair Runner Specialist and Proud Founder of Directcarpet.com

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