remeasure a staircase for painting

First, do a quick count of your individual stair treads. (A fun fact for your project: you'll always have one more riser than you have treads!). Next, let's get your tools ready for a quality result. You'll need a rigid tape measure for accuracy, a carpenter's square to check for right angles, a level to ensure your measurements are true, some masking tape for labeling, and a trusty pencil and notebook.

For each step, place your tape measure firmly against the vertical panel at the back of the tread (that's the 'riser'). Extend the tape straight across the flat part of the stair, continuing over the rounded front lip, which we call the 'nosing'. It's critical to keep the tape measure flat and level for an accurate reading. For safety and quality, always measure the bare wood. Measuring over old carpet, glue, or debris will throw off your numbers and compromise your final look. Record the depth for each step.

With the depths recorded, it's time to measure the width. Run your tape measure along the front edge of the tread, keeping it parallel to the riser at the back. If your stairs are between two walls, measure from wall to wall. For stairs with an open side, measure from the absolute outermost edge to the other side. For a beautiful, bordered effect with your paint, you might plan for about a 1-inch space on each side. Don't forget to record the width for every single step.

This is the step that ensures a stress-free project! Meticulously write down the width and depth for every single tread in your notebook. You might be surprised to find that not all steps are identical, especially in older homes. If you find a step with unique dimensions, use a small piece of masking tape to label it with a number that corresponds to your notes. We always recommend measuring twice—it’s a simple way to guarantee accuracy and give you confidence in your plan. This is especially important if you plan to order custom-made treads in the future.