Fitting stair rods for runners – what you need to know

Fitting stair rods for runners introduces instant style and an eye-catching feature to a staircase. There are over 40 different designs from which to choose in an array of finishes, from matt black to polished chrome, antique brass to pewter. Whether you are looking for classic appeal or decorating with bold glamour in mind, stair carpet rods impress every time.

Here we provide an insight into some of the most popular designs and some crucial advice to ensure you choose the right dimensions for your runner carpet.

Are all stair rod designs suitable for a runner carpet?

A stair runner is a stair carpet which fits up the centre of the stairs but is not the full width of a staircase. On either side a section of exposed staircase is visible and many runners have borders or a carpet trim which is accentuated by the plain exposed backdrop of the staircase. In contrast a fully fitted stair carpet covers the entire width of the staircase.

Do rods come with rod holders?

We supply all our stair rods with a pair of brackets which are included in the price. The design of bracket varies depending on the rod design, diameter of the rod and whether it is for a stair runner or a fitted carpet. It is standard for the bracket holders to match the finish of the rod. we also sell brackets (pairs) on their own, should you have lost them.

How much gap should I leave between the end of my stair rod and the edge of the stairs?

Assuming you have a stair runner then you need to make sure that it is indented from the side of the staircase by at least 25mm (1 inch) either side. This is purely for aesthetics – you do not want the attractive finial stair rod ends to be cramped up against the edge of the stairs. However, many people leave much more than 25mm and this depends on their personal choice. Whatever, you choose, it needs to be the same either side and constant going up the stairs.

Should all my stair rods should be the same length?

Not necessarily!  Even though a staircase may appear to have a consistent width of step, it is always worth checking and measuring up.  Likewise, you will find the step width changes with a winder staircase and newel posts and therefore the rods will likewise vary in length. On a straight staircase, the aim is to line up the brackets, one under the other.

Some of my steps curve around, where should I put the brackets in relation to the stair runner?

For a runner you would normally fit the brackets either side of the runner, attaching straight into the staircase. Whereas with a runner fitted on a winder staircase, there are a couple of alternative solutions.

1. You can request universal brackets with most of our made-to-measure stair rod ranges. These are different in design and only have one screw, allowing the brackets to be set at an angle as the stairs turn.
2. Alternatively, a popular fitters’ solution is to move the standard bracket out away from the runner until it can lie flat.
3. The Blacksmith designs are supplied automatically with winderbrackets.

Should my stair rods be the same width as my runner?

No.  You should allow for the bracket and some rod with its decorative end to overhang either side. Typically, for a 12mm diameter rod, the norm is to allow an additional 50mm either side.