Carpeting stairs is a common home upgrade that improves comfort, safety, and appearance, but costs vary widely based on materials, labor, and stair configuration. This guide breaks down the typical price ranges, cost drivers, installation options, and ways to save so homeowners can plan with confidence.
| Item | Typical Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Per Stair (material + labor) | $30 – $125 |
| Full Staircase (12 steps) | $360 – $1,500 |
| Runner Installation (12 steps) | $250 – $1,200 |
| Padding Replacement | $40 – $200 |
| Removal & Disposal | $50 – $250 |
Typical Cost Range And What Drives Prices
The overall cost to carpet stairs depends on five main factors: carpet type and quality, padding, labor rates, stair complexity, and any preparation work such as removal or repairs. Basic loop or berber carpet with standard padding installed on a straight 12-step run is the lowest-cost scenario. Custom, high-end carpets, complex layouts, or additional repairs push costs to the high end.
Cost Components Explained
Carpet Material
Carpet prices vary based on fiber, pile, and brand. Entry-level nylon or olefin can cost $1 – $4 per square foot, mid-range styles run $4 – $8, and premium wool or high-end nylon can be $8 – $20+/sq ft. Stair installations often use narrower remnant cuts or runners, making material costs per stair variable.
Padding
Good padding improves comfort and extends carpet life on stairs. Stair-specific padding is denser and slimmer than room padding. Expect to pay $3 – $15 per stair for quality padding, depending on density and material.
Labor
Labor is typically charged either per stair or per hour and is the largest single cost for stairs. Installers usually charge $8 – $25 per stair for straightforward installs, with higher rates in urban areas or for complicated jobs.
Removal And Preparatory Work
If old carpet, tack strips, or damaged wood must be removed, add $50 – $250 depending on scope. Subfloor repairs, sanding, or refinishing increases costs substantially.
Additional Materials And Extras
Extras like stair nosing, metal edge trim, glue, and fasteners add $10 – $150 depending on product quality and whether stair edges need special protection.
Per-Stair Pricing Examples
| Scenario | Cost Per Stair | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Job | $30 – $50 | Basic carpet remnant, minimal padding, simple straight stairs |
| Mid-Range | $50 – $90 | Popular nylon or wool blends, quality padding, professional installation |
| High-End | $90 – $125+ | Wool or designer carpet, dense stair padding, custom trimming or edges |
Full Staircase Cost Examples
A typical 12-step staircase offers an easy benchmark: budget installs range $360 – $600, mid-range $600 – $1,080, and high-end $1,080 – $1,500 or more. Runner installations often fall below full coverage costs but vary by runner width and material quality.
Runner Vs Full Coverage: Pros, Cons And Cost Differences
A stair runner covers the center of each tread and leaves exposed wood on the sides; full coverage wraps every tread and riser in carpet. Runners are cheaper and show more wood, while full coverage offers superior traction and a uniform look. Runners typically save 10%–40% on material costs but may still require equal labor effort for precise fitting.
DIY Installation Vs Professional: Cost And Considerations
DIY can reduce costs significantly if the homeowner has tools and experience. Materials for a DIY 12-step job might run $150 – $400, compared with $360+ for professional installation. However, stairs require precise measurements, cutting, and secure fastening; mistakes can be dangerous and costly to fix. Pros offer warranties, speed, and the expertise to handle complex stair shapes.
How To Estimate Your Project Accurately
Measure carefully: count treads and risers, measure tread depth and riser height, and note any landings or turns. Multiply the number of treads and risers by the average coverage to estimate material needs. Request at least three written quotes from installers and ask for itemized breakdowns showing material, padding, labor, and disposal fees. An itemized quote prevents surprises.
How Stair Shape And Layout Affect Price
Straight runs are the least expensive. Winder stairs, curved stairs, open risers, or split stairs increase labor and waste because of extra cutting and seams. Expect a 15%–50% premium for nonstandard staircases versus straight stairs.
Choosing The Right Carpet And Padding For Stairs
Select a carpet with a tight loop or cut pile designed for high traffic to resist crushing. Nylon is popular for durability, olefin is stain-resistant and affordable, and wool offers natural resilience but at higher cost. For padding, choose a dense, low-profile option labeled for stairs to avoid excessive bulk and ensure secure fastening. Durability and density matter more on stairs than decorative softness.
Cost-Saving Strategies
- Buy remnants or offcuts from carpet stores for smaller stair projects to lower material cost.
- Choose a runner instead of full coverage to retain wood visibility and reduce material use.
- Schedule installation during slow seasons (late winter/early spring) when some contractors offer discounts.
- Bundle jobs—installing carpet on stairs and an adjacent hallway can reduce per-square-foot labor costs.
- Get multiple quotes and verify references and reviews.
Typical Timeline For Installation
A straightforward straight-run staircase usually takes 2 to 6 hours for experienced installers to complete, including removal of old carpet. Complex layouts, additional repairs, or refinishing steps can extend the timeline to a day or more.
Maintenance, Durability, And Expected Lifespan
Carpeted stairs see heavy concentrated traffic and can show wear faster than open floor areas. With proper padding and professional installation, expect 5–10 years of good service for mid-range carpet; premium products can last longer with careful maintenance. Regular vacuuming, prompt stain treatment, and periodic deep cleaning preserve appearance and safety.
Safety And Building Code Considerations
Carpet installation should not alter tread depth or riser height beyond code limits. Slips can increase if carpet is loose or improperly stretched. Professional installers ensure secure fastening, correct stair nosing, and even transitions to adjacent flooring to maintain safety and code compliance.
Common Add-Ons And Their Costs
- Stair Nosing/Edge Trim: $10 – $50 per stair for metal or wood trims.
- Glue-Down or Double-Sided Tape: $20 – $60 depending on product and amount.
- Refinishing Exposed Wood: $100 – $500+ if parts of stairs are left wood and need sanding/staining.
- Pet Treatments or Enhanced Stain Resistance: $50 – $200 extra.
Questions To Ask Before Hiring An Installer
Ask for proof of insurance, references, and whether the installer offers a workmanship warranty. Request an itemized quote, timeline, and clarification on disposal of old materials. Confirm whether the quoted price includes tax, padding, and edge treatments. Clear expectations reduce disputes.
Quick Cost Checklist For Homeowners
- Measure stairs and note shape (straight, curved, winder).
- Decide on full coverage vs runner.
- Choose carpet fiber and padding density.
- Obtain 3 itemized quotes from local installers.
- Ask about warranties, timeline, and disposal fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Square Feet Is A Typical Staircase?
An average stair tread is about 10 inches deep and 36 inches wide; a 12-step staircase with risers included is often 30–45 sq ft of carpet. Exact measurements vary by home. Always measure actual treads and risers.
Is It Cheaper To Carpet The Entire Stair Or Use A Runner?
A runner usually costs less in material but the labor difference can be modest because installers must still fit each step precisely. Choose based on aesthetic preference and budget trade-offs. Runners save material but may not save as much labor as expected.
How Long Will Carpet On Stairs Last?
With quality carpet and padding, mid-range installations typically last 5–10 years on stairs. High-traffic homes or pets reduce life expectancy; better materials and maintenance extend it. Durability depends on carpet weight, fiber, and installation quality.
Resources And Next Steps
Homeowners should gather measurements, decide on material and coverage style, and obtain multiple quotes. Use online calculators offered by retailers for ballpark material needs and consult reputable local installers for on-site estimates. Accurate measurement and clear, itemized quotes are the most effective ways to control cost.