Are stair treads safe? Here is what you need to know.
Are you considering installing stair treads? You’re not alone.
Many residential homes have stairs both inside and out that are extremely slippery or pose a risk to kids, elderly, or the disabled. The addition of stair treads is appealing because they are marketed as providing added traction to make steps less slippery and safer for everyone. But how accurate is that?
Are anti-slip stair treads safe? Yes, they are when you choose the appropriate tread. Anti-slip stair treads will not only make your indoor and outdoor steps safer, but these days can also be customized to your decor with a variety of colors or even to glow-in-the-dark.
Outdoor Anti-Slip Stair Treads
Adding that extra layer of traction to outdoor stairs is one of the best ways to prevent slip and fall accidents. With a large variety of outdoor anti-slip stair treads on the market, choosing the right one for your application can be confusing. You want to find a product that will not only do its job today, but that you can guarantee is high-quality and won’t deteriorate down the road from foot traffic, snow, rain, and ice.
Consider the Location
Are there stairs around a pool or somewhere that people will often be barefoot? Considering that should be a top priority. If that is the case, you will want to narrow down your search to a product that is resilient medium grade vinyl. This product provides excellent anti-slip protection, can weather excessive water, and is comfortable on bare feet.
Or do you need to call out the stairs? You might want to look for an anti-slip tread that is brightly colored or glow-in-the-dark if that is the case.
Understanding Grit Levels
While you want to consider the location and make sure the product feels and looks good, you also need to ensure it will get the job of providing the proper amount of traction. Outdoor non-slip stair treads come in a variety of grit levels, that is what indicates the amount of traction.
If your location is going to experience extreme foot traffic, temperature changes, or be hit big time with elements then some grit levels will be preferred over others. Ladders, machinery, or heavy lifting equipment that have stairs will require a stronger grit, possibly military grade,while patio stairs won’t need something as strong.
A tread that is made of silicon carbide will not only provide excellent traction, but also a superior adhesion to last long-term through the elements.
Indoor Anti-Slip Stair Treads
Indoor stair treads are an excellent option to prevent slip and fall accidents. Safe to apply on a variety of flooring such as carpet, wood, or tile they are easy to apply and also remove, without leaving residue behind.
Popular Indoor Stair Tread Options
Indoor stair treads come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. You will want to make sure you measure your stairs and pick the right size. Two of the most popular options for anti-slip stair treads right now are:
● Clear Stair Treads
Clear anti-slip stair treads are incredibly popular. They are discrete and can be applied to most surfaces. It is an excellent way to prevent slip and fall accidents without calling attention to the product. Especially popular in bathrooms with steps or main home staircases, clear treads can be used just about anywhere when you need a discrete design while also offering slip and fall protection.
● Glow-in-the-Dark Stair Treads
Also called photoluminescent stair treads, these are an excellent choice if you need lighting in dark situations. Requiring zero electricity, these stair treads contain phosphorus which absorbs ambient light, stores it, and then later puts it out to glow in darkness. Jessup Manufacturing produces glow-in-the-dark stair treads and non slip tapes that are certified to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and New York City (MEA #235-05-M) standards.
Tips to Make Stairs Safer with Stair Treads
As a global leader in adhesive non-slip tapes and stair treads, Jessup Manufacturing has helped homeowners and commercial building owners assess their locations to choose the best non-slip stair treads. Below are several top tips to consider before purchasing either outdoor or indoor non-slip stair treads:
● Make sure to choose a tread of a different color when it comes to single step downs. This will make it easier for someone to identify the change in elevation.
● If the stairs will be used commonly by someone with a cane you will want to avoid a cut out style stair tread.
● Make sure you use a certified NFSI cleaner when cleaning your stair treads. This will ensure dirt and grease are removed and apply an added layer of traction protectant.
Shop Non-Slip Stair Treads
Jessup Manufacturing has one of the largest selections of high-quality indoor and outdoor non-slip stair treads on the market. Shop the entire selection below or contact or team to discuss your specific requirements.
