The potential problems with removal of runner are dependent upon how the runner was installed. Some dearies actually tack the runner to the steps, tread and riser. Ouch, because removal leaves those holes to be filled and stained to match (very difficult to conceal). An alternative method is to use carpet bars which come in wood or metal, in an assortment of finishes. This is slightly more expensive but imo, also *looks* more luxurious. The carpet is barred at the back of the tread where it meets the riser; best practice has the runner tacked beneath each tread rather than slanted from top-front to the back of the next lower riser. Note that under-tread tacking also uses the most running feet of carpet, so the most finished appearance is going to cost. There are several other methods, so discuss intent with the installer before s/he does the work. One thing for sure, is to not use any sort of sticky-back tape: it either doesn't hold well, or holds too well and removel is labor-intensive. Because of the carpet pile height, if possible choose treads that are slightly deeper than usual so as to maintain fully safe depth.

You can never go wrong with hardwood. Most of the homes I have seen in the last 14 years have mostly hardwood. It is much easier to keep clean and you don't have to shampoo carpet! Also never use the swiffer wet jet on hardwood floors. It will build up and I have yet to find a way to remove it. No, it was not I who used it. I do love the swiffer dust mop though. I wish I had thought of that one! I have seen one home that stopped at the top of the steps and put carpet in the hallway but, the bedrooms were all carpet and I guess she just wanted them to blend. I have been cleaning her house for 13 years and the hardwood still looks great but the carpet needs to be replaced.

We’re moving into a new house and changing out the carpet upstairs and on the stairs. The wooden stairs are a red oak that have ambered over time. We don’t have it in the budget to refinish the treads, spindles and railings. But our goal is a darker gel stain and possible white spindles (4th pic, just with carpet). Upstairs we are putting this Mowhawk smart strand carpet. My question is, do we carry this medium pile/padded carpet down the stairs (in runner form), or do we choose a different lower pile carpet /runner for the stairs? If so, how do you pick a runner that matches well and doesn’t look strange when they join at the top of the stairs? Thanks!

Definitely match stairs to your main floor. When I'm on my main floor, my basement stairs are quite visible. It would drive me crazy if they didn't match the surroundings (FWIW, once you get downstairs there's a laminate floor that barely matches, and I don't really care because the basement is a casual space).