Installation Instructions

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CRI 105 - STANDARD For INSTALLATION of RESIDENTIAL CARPET Copyright © 2019 by The Carpet and Rug Institute, Inc.
Broadloom Carpet
15.0
Carpet on Stairs
The following section covers proper procedures for installing carpet on stairs.
15.1
Preparation
It is required that the stair tread, riser and stair nose should be clean, dry and structurally
sound. The stair nose return should be rounded 3/4 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm) to prevent sharp
stair edges from cutting carpet and/or cushion, and to provide proper carpet contact for
adhesive installations. When carpet is installed over a separate cushion, extend the cushion
over the stair nose.
15.2
Stretch-in Installation
Tack strip is to be installed on each tread. It is required that pins on the tread point toward
the riser. On a waterfall-type stair installation, tack strip is to be installed on risers also. Pins
on risers point down to the tread. It is required that the gully between strips be slightly less
than double the carpet thickness. Where a turned finish is desired, tack strip and cushion are
about 1½ inches (38 mm) less than the carpet width, to allow for a turn under on each side of
the stairs. Some stairs require tack strip on the sides to maintain the proper tension. When
using a cap-and-band or contoured technique, tack strip is not used on riser.
NOTE: When staples are used in upholstering carpet on stairs, take care to separate pile
yarns to avoid trapping yarns, resulting in visible distortion. If the edges are exposed, they
must be edge sealed. Upholstery work needs to have no raw edges exposed. Any seams or
joints must be sealed. Carpet seams need to be split in the direction of the
balusters/spindles.
15.3
Glue-down Installation
Install carpet on stair treads and risers using recommended adhesive. Stairs without a return
(nose) can be installed as one piece over the tread and riser. It is required that on stairs with
a return, carpet be cut and installed with the tread and riser being separate pieces.
15.4
Carpet Direction
It is recommended that machine direction of the carpet be installed in the length direction of
the stairs.
NOTE: Most manufacturers recommend carpet pile direction run down the stairs.