Carpeting 13 stairs costs $260-$910 in 2026. Use our free stair carpet calculator for runners, full coverage, pie steps and labor estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to carpet 13 stairs in the US?
Carpeting 13 stairs costs $260-$910 in 2026, or $20-$70 per step including standard carpet, padding and labor. Pie or winder treads add $10-$25 per step.
Is a stair runner cheaper than full carpet?
A stair runner uses about 30% less carpet, saving $100-$300 on a 13-step staircase, but adds $50-$150 in installation skill premium for clean edges.
How many square feet of carpet for 13 stairs?
About 25-35 sq ft for a standard 36-inch wide 13-step staircase with full coverage; 18-22 sq ft for a runner with exposed sides.
What's the best carpet for stairs?
Solution-dyed nylon with a low-profile loop or short cut pile (28-40 oz) is the most durable for stairs. Wool blends look premium but cost 2-3x more. Avoid frieze or shag — they show wear fast.
Can I use the same carpet on stairs and the landing?
Yes, and most installers recommend it for visual flow. Order 10-15% extra carpet vs your room calc to account for the stair waste.
How long does it take to carpet stairs?
A pro installer takes 2-4 hours for 13 straight stairs; 4-6 hours if there are pie/winder steps. DIY typically takes a full weekend.
Do carpeted stairs need a special pad?
Yes — use a high-density 7-8 lb stair-rated rebond pad. Standard 6 lb pad compresses too quickly under foot traffic and voids many install warranties on stairs.