Avoid connecting a noisy area to a quiet one. For example, a stairway from the basement playroom or media room near an upstairs home office or bedroom could prove disruptive. Build stairs parallel to ceiling joists to save on installation time and materials. Bear in mind, however, that you won’t be able to move furniture or other large objects into the basement via spiral stairs. This is because building codes often prohibit spiral staircases in rooms larger than 400 square feet. Installing carpet on stairs involves stretching the runner tightly over treads and risers and securing the carpet to tackless strips attached where the tread meets the riser. Stair rods or stair clips can be added for decorative effect after the carpet is in place.
