Stair Carpet Cost Calculator
Enter your staircase details below for an instant UK price estimate in GBP. Covers materials, labour and extras for straight or shaped stairs.
Steps to Measure Your Stairs
- Count all steps from bottom to top, including landings if carpeted.
- Measure rise: vertical height from tread to next tread (average 17-20cm).
- Measure going: horizontal depth of each tread (average 25-28cm).
- For shapes: add 20-50% extra length for turns/waste.
- Runner width: typically 65-80cm; full uses tread width.
Cost Factors
Straight stairs cost least due to simple cuts. L-shaped needs joins, adding 20% labour. Curved stairs demand custom templates, upping prices 50%+. Wool lasts 15+ years but stains; polypropylene resists dirt for busy homes.
Carpet Options for Stairs
- Loop pile: Hard-wearing, low crush for daily use.
- Striped patterns: Hide dirt, guide eyes up narrow flights.
- Short pile nylon: Balances cost and foot comfort.
- Avoid twist pile: Catches heels, unravels faster.
Fitting Notes
Professionals secure with grippers every step, stretch taut to avoid trips. Underlay cushions noise and wear. Full coverage mutes steps better than runners, which suit traditional looks with brass rods.
Runners vs Full Coverage
| Runner | Full | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (12 steps) | £50-£200 | £150-£500 |
| Material Use | Low (strip) | High |
| Durability | Edges show wear | Even protection |
| Style | Classic, rod-friendly | Modern, silent |
Common Pitfalls
- Undercount steps: Miss half-landings, inflating waste by 30%.
- Ignore shape: Straight formula on curves underestimates by £100+.
- Skip underlay: Carpet wears 2x faster, trips rise.
- Lowball labour: Urban rates hit £12/m²; flat fees hide extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
What area formula applies? Steps × (rise + going)/100 in metres, ×1.1-1.5 for shape.
Does this include VAT? Add 20% VAT to totals for trade quotes.
Pet homes? Pick polypropylene; loop pile sheds hair easily.
Timeline? Straight stairs: 3-4 hours; complex: full day.
References
Office for National Statistics. (2025). UK Construction Cost Indices: Flooring Sector. ONS Publications.
Federation of Master Builders. (2024). Domestic Flooring Labour Rates Survey. FMB Research Report.
British Carpet Manufacturers Association. (2025). Stair Carpeting Standards and Durability Testing. BCMA Technical Guide.