How to Measure Your Stairs for LVP Stair Nosing
Three measurements and a few notes — that's all FloorMatch needs to prepare your order.
Measure width (wall to wall), depth (front to back of tread), and height (riser). Note whether each side is open or closed.
Measuring Stair Width
Stair width is the most critical measurement. Measure at tread level — not at the riser, not at the base of the wall. Measure from wall to wall, or from wall to the open edge of the stair.
Wall to wall (closed stairs)
Measure the full width from finished wall to finished wall at the front edge of the tread. Leave approximately 1/8" gap at each wall end.
Wall to open edge (open stairs)
On open-side stairs, the open edge needs a return. Measure wall to the full edge of the tread, including where the return will sit.
Example calculation:
Stair measures 47.5" wall to wall → order a 48" piece and cut to 47.25" (leaving 1/8" gap each side).
Measure the full width of the stair from wall to wall (or opening edge). This determines the length of your stair nosing piece.
Counting Your Stairs
Count every tread that needs a nose piece. Walk the staircase from bottom to top and count each horizontal surface.
Count the top landing separately
If the edge where your upstairs floor meets the staircase is exposed, that landing edge usually needs nosing too. It's often the same piece as the rest but may require a different profile.
Note closed vs open stairs
For each stair, note whether it has walls on both sides (closed) or an exposed edge on one or both sides (open). This determines how many returns you need.
Measure any stairs that differ in width
On some staircases, landing stairs or turn stairs may be wider than the main run. Measure each unique stair individually and flag it in your order.
Identifying Open-Side Stairs
An open-side stair has one or both edges exposed — no wall. These exposed edges need a return piece to finish the stair nose cleanly. Stand at the bottom of the staircase and look up to determine open sides.
Closed stairs have walls on both sides. Open stairs have one or two exposed sides that require a return piece to finish the edge.
Closed
Walls on both sides. No returns needed.
Open Left
Left side exposed when looking up. Order left return.
Open Right
Right side exposed when looking up. Order right return.
Double Open
Both sides exposed. Order left and right returns.
Quick check: Stand at the bottom, looking up the stairs. Open on the left = left return. Open on the right = right return. Open on both = double-open.
The Top Stair and Landing Edge
The top of the staircase — where the upstairs flooring transitions to the stair opening — usually needs nosing treatment. This is often the most visible piece of the installation.
Flush or standard nose?
If the riser clearance at the top is tight, a flush (low-profile) nose may be required. Measure the drop from the top floor level to the first tread and note it in your order.
Not sure which profile you need?
Include a photo with your order showing the top stair transition. FloorMatch can recommend the right profile for your specific situation.
Measurement Checklist
Fill this out before submitting your order. Print this page or use it as a reference.
FloorMatch Stair Measurement Checklist
Desired profile:
floormatch.com/measurement-guide
Tip: Use your browser's print function (Ctrl+P / Cmd+P) to print this checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Order?
Submit your measurements and FloorMatch will match and ship your stair nosing.