Whether you’re working on a new build or upgrading an existing staircase, precise measuring can save you time, money, and the hassle of reordering. At Mafson (Ltd), we support UK building contractors every day with dependable Stair Nosings, rubber seals, and thresholds that are easy to install and built to last.
This guide walks you through measuring stairs like a pro, step by step, so you can be confident your order will fit perfectly the first time.
Why Accurate Measurement Really Matters
It’s easy to underestimate just how much proper measurement impacts the final result. A nosing that’s even slightly too short or too long can cause problems such as trip hazards, uneven wear, poor aesthetics, or costly site delays.
Taking the time to measure correctly upfront ensures a clean, snug fit for every nosing profile. It also helps you meet building regulations and safety standards, ensuring long-lasting durability under heavy foot traffic. Most importantly, it guarantees a professional finish that clients will appreciate.
At Mafson, we often help contractors select the right type of Stair Nosing, whether PVC, Aluminium, or Rubber but the benefits only come through when the fit is right. And that starts with your tape measure.
Measuring Your Stairs Step-by-Step
Understand the Stair Layout
Before you take any measurements, take a good look at the stairs. Are the treads uniform, or does each step vary slightly in depth or riser height? Are you working with straight flights, winders, landings, or open risers? Knowing these details helps you plan the nosing profiles you’ll need and whether any customisation might be necessary.
On older or non-standard staircases, it’s wise to measure several steps to check for consistency. Even a few millimetres of difference can affect how your nosing fits.
Measure the Tread Depth
This is one of the most crucial measurements. The tread depth tells you how much surface area your stair nosing needs to cover from front to back.
Use a rigid tape measure to record the distance from the front edge of the step, excluding any existing nosing, straight back to the riser. It’s a good idea to measure several steps to confirm uniformity.
If your project requires anti-slip compliance, make sure your nosing covers the minimum area needed. Mafson’s Non-Slip Stair Nosings are designed with safety standards in mind, helping you tick both practical and legal boxes.
Check the Riser Height
Next, measure the riser, the vertical part of the stair between two treads. Use your tape measure to determine the height from the top of one tread to the next.
It’s important to measure several steps to ensure the riser heights are consistent. Variations may require adjusting your choice of nosing profile to achieve the best fit.
Many aluminium and rubber stair nosings come designed to accommodate taller risers or rounded edges. If you’re unsure which profile suits your stairs best, don’t hesitate to ask. Our team is always ready to help.
Now it’s time to measure the full width of each tread, from one side to the other. The nosing should run the entire length of the step unless you are leaving a deliberate gap for design or safety reasons.
This step is particularly important when handrails, walls, or other obstructions limit the available width. Accurate width measurements save you from cutting or trimming the nosing on site, avoiding delays.
Don’t Forget the Overall Staircase Width
If you’re ordering nosing for an entire flight, measure the overall width of the staircase. This helps you determine how many nosing profiles you’ll need.
For longer commercial staircases, ordering in modular lengths makes installation much easier. Mafson offers bulk-order solutions for tradespeople, whether you need ten profiles or a hundred. Our PVC stair nosings and aluminium options come in a variety of sizes to fit your site precisely.
Consider Flooring Type and Thickness
Finally, consider the flooring type where the nosing will be installed, whether it’s carpet, vinyl, concrete, or timber. Each material has its own thickness, which affects how the nosing sits on the step.
For example, carpet tiles often require deeper profiles to fit flush, while hard surfaces like timber or LVT (luxury vinyl tiles) might pair better with slimmer profiles.
Also think about any transitions at the top or bottom of the stairs. If you plan to use thresholds or rubber seals, planning ahead ensures all your components fit together seamlessly. Mafson’s products are designed with this compatibility in mind, making installation straightforward and stress-free.
Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced contractors can make mistakes measuring stairs. It’s common to assume every step is identical, but always measure multiple steps to verify this. Overlooking subfloor irregularities can also cause your nosing to sit unevenly or lift.
Clearance for handrails or wall trims is often forgotten. Ensure you factor in these elements to avoid fitting issues later. Additionally, remember to allow for expansion, especially with rubber or aluminium profiles, to prevent buckling or gaps.
Choosing the Right Nosing for Your Project
With your measurements in hand, selecting the right nosing profile becomes much simpler.
Rubber stair nosings work best in heavy-duty industrial environments, providing resilience under intense foot traffic. Aluminium nosings offer durability and a modern look, ideal for commercial spaces where style and strength matter. For lighter traffic areas, PVC stair nosing presents a cost-effective, practical solution.
Not sure which option is right for your specific project? Explore our full range of Stair Nosings, or get in touch with us for personalised advice. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Plan Smart, Fit Once, Finish Strong
Measuring stairs accurately may seem like a small step, but it sets the foundation for a flawless project. With precise dimensions and the right materials, your staircase will look professional, perform reliably, and meet all safety requirements.
If you want expert advice, help placing an order, or guidance coordinating with thresholds and rubber seals, don’t hesitate to reach out.
📧 sales@mafson.co.uk
📞 0114 360 9100
Together, we’ll get every step measured, fitted, and finished the right way. If you’d like a printable measuring checklist or additional on-site guides, just ask. Mafson is here to make your job easier and your installations safer.
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Mafson®. Where Safety Meets Strength.
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