Guide to choosing a carpet runner for stairs
A carpet runner adds a unique touch and accent not only to your staircase but also your entire home. It’s actually one of the simplest and cheapest way to give your entire home a revamp. It gives room to bring out your creativity with an array of colours and patterns.
You need to choose a modern carpet runner to enjoy these benefits and give your staircase a new look. However, with the wide range of patterns, styles, and fibres available, picking the right carpet could be overwhelming.
But you don’t need to panic. We have made this guide to make sure you choose the perfect carpet runner – one that will stand the test of time. We’ll be looking at the benefits of carpet runners and the best carpet runners to choose from.
Why a stair carpet runner?
Installing a carpet runner on your staircase can make your life so much easier. There are so many benefits a carpet runner brings to your home, including;
Increases Safety
A carpet runner keeps you safe from falls on stairs. Wooden or tiled stairs can be slippery, which can endanger your or your loved ones’ safety. A runner provides a safe place to walk on the stairs, reducing the danger of slipping.
Prevents damage to stairs
Carpet runners cover newly polished maple hardwood or oak. This prevents stains and scratches from causing unsightly damage to the staircase.
Add comfort and style
Carpet runners absorb noise, making your trips up and down the stairs much quieter and more comfortable to walk on. It is also a way to add style to your staircase. Carpet runners are an excellent way to add your favourite colour or pattern to your home without overdoing it. However, you have to select the proper runner to enjoy these benefits. Below is a guide on the best carpet runners there are.
Choosing the proper carpet runner for you
A stair runner adds class and beauty to your home. Picking the right type, colour, and style of a carpet runner is crucial for the durability and appearance of the carpet. Below, we’ll discuss how to choose the proper carpet runner based on material, runner width, as well as colour, and pattern.
1. Material
When selecting the material of your carpet, besides looking at the information provided by the manufacturer, you should also let your hand guide you.
Usually, hard-wearing synthetics are recommended for carpeting. For instance, nylon is the perfect choice due to its durability. Other synthetic materials like polyester are also ideal choices, mainly because of their ability to withhold floor pressure and tension.
Wool carpets are the most desirable carpet runners because they come in the richest, most attractive colours and appealing textures. They are also durable, meaning they can serve you as long as you wish.
Also, a sisal-based carpet runner is a good choice because it naturally resists viruses and bacteria and is very hard-wearing. Sisal carpets also look stylish and unique.
2. Runner width
A common question people ask when buying a carpet runner for a staircase is how wide it should be. And the answer to this depends on the width of your stairs.
If your stairs are about 3ft wide, a 27-inch runner width would be perfect. For wider stairs, say about 4 or 5 feet, you should consider 32- or 33-inches wide carpet runners.
3. Colour and pattern
Carpet runners can be the perfect way to add several colours or patterns to your space. Patterned runners are eye-pleasing and come in multiple designs and colours.
Some patterns are perfect for long, flat surfaces, while others fit well in shorter or curvy staircases.
4. Trim or no trim
Using a trim on the carpet runner for your staircase could be an excellent way to add style to your house and make it unique.
Cushion or Underlay: Is it Important for Stair Runners?
Once you invest your money on a carpet runner, you’ll want it to last to see your grandchildren. That’s why you’ll need an underlay or a cushion to protect your carpet. Cushions and underlays are the additional padding layers placed underneath the rug. They reduce floor tension and pressure, which preserves the condition of the carpet.
For better results, select a thick underlay, say ¼ inch, to support your carpet runner. You may consider a rubber pad because of its firmness and density.
Consult an interior design professional
Carpet runners are without a doubt an excellent addition to your home’s interior design. It gives the house a touch of class and makes it safe to walk and up the stairway. We hope you find this guide helpful in selecting a carpet runner for your house.
If still unsure what colour, pattern, or material to consider for your carpet runner, Willow & Bert interiors are just a call away to help you.