Stair Runner Length CalculatorSizing
Narrow stair runner length calculator
On a narrow stair the width decision is tighter than the length decision. Once the stair drops below about 34 in (85 cm), a standard 27 in or 70 cm runner starts to look like a badly fitted carpet rather than a runner.
Calculate the length as usual, then use the width checker to find a runner that leaves a deliberate, even reveal.
Stair runner calculator
Your stair runner length
20 ft 3.1 in
Total runner required for 13 steps, including a 10% waste allowance.
| Inches | 243.1 in |
|---|---|
| Feet | 20.26 ft |
| Feet & inches | 20 ft 3.1 in |
| Yards | 6.75 yd |
| Meters | 6.17 m |
| Centimeters | 617.47 cm |
Recommended purchase length
21 ft
7 yd · 6.4 m · 252 in
This calculator provides an estimate based on the measurements and installation assumptions you enter. Complex, curved or winder staircases may require professional measurement.
Your measurements, drawn to scale
Choosing a width
Aim for at least 2.5 to 3 in (6 to 8 cm) of bare stair each side. On a 32 in stair that means a 26 in runner at most; on an 80 cm stair, about 64 cm.
Cut-to-width is your friend
Ready-made widths jump in large increments. A runner cut from broadloom and bound to your exact width usually costs less than the compromise of a badly proportioned stock size.
Narrow does not mean short
The length calculation is unaffected by width. A narrow flight with 15 steps still needs the same 21 ft 10 in as a wide one.
Questions people ask
- What runner width for a narrow staircase?
- Subtract 5 to 8 in (12 to 20 cm) from the stair width so you keep an even reveal. On a 32 in stair, a 24 to 26 in runner works well.
- Does a narrow stair use less runner?
- No. Length depends on treads and risers, not width — though a narrower runner usually costs less per foot.