Best Anti Slip Tape for Outdoor Stairs: Buyer’s Guide & Top Picks
Slippery outdoor stairs pose a safety risk. One wrong step can lead to a serious fall. If you manage or own a property with outdoor stairs, anti slip tape is one of the most effective ways to reduce that risk quickly.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose the right anti slip tape for outdoor stairs and why Jessup Manufacturing’s solutions are built to perform in the harshest environments.
Why Outdoor Stairs Need Anti Slip Tape
Outdoor stairs are exposed to rain, snow, dust, and algae. These conditions make walking surfaces slippery. Materials like wood, concrete, and metal don’t provide enough traction on their own.
Without proper grip:
- People slip more often
- Liability increases on commercial properties
- Maintenance costs rise due to injuries and damage
Anti slip tape solves this by adding surface friction. It helps prevent slips, even in tough outdoor conditions.
Who Should Use It?
Anti slip tape is for:
- Homeowners with exposed decks or staircases
- Facility managers overseeing building entrances
- Warehouse teams maintaining outdoor steps
- Contractors managing construction sites
- Schools, retail stores, and public areas with stair access
If safety is a concern and you want a fast, durable solution, this is for you.
What to Look for in Outdoor Anti Slip Tape
Outdoor environments demand specific performance features. Here’s what you need in a high-quality solution:
1. Weather Resistance
Choose a tape that performs in:
- Rain and snow
- Hot and cold temperatures
- High UV exposure
Jessup tapes are engineered to resist extreme outdoor elements.
2. Durable Adhesion
A strong adhesive is critical. It should bond well with:
- Concrete
- Wood
- Metal
- Stone or brick
Jessup’s industrial-grade adhesives provide long-term grip in high-traffic zones.
3. Grit Level
Grit determines how rough the tape surface feels. Lower numbers mean coarser grip.
- 24 Grit – Maximum traction for extreme industrial use
- 46 Grit – Heavy-duty grip for high-traffic outdoor stairs
- 60 Grit – Balanced grip for general outdoor environments
Choose based on your usage and the type of footwear most commonly used.
4. Visibility
Look for tapes that offer clear visual contrast. Jessup offers:
- Solid black for standard use
- Black and yellow stripes for hazard visibility
- Photoluminescent strips for low-light navigation
Visibility helps people see the step edge more clearly.
5. Installation Ease
Jessup tapes are easy to install:
- Peel-and-stick backing
- No special tools
- Optional edge sealing for added life
Proper installation ensures longer-lasting performance.
How to Apply Jessup Anti Slip Tape Outdoors
Follow these steps for a clean and lasting application:
- Clean the surface thoroughly.
- Remove dirt, grease, oil, or moss.
- Dry completely.
- Do not apply in wet or damp conditions.
- Measure and cut.
- Cut the tape to match stair width. Use a sharp blade for clean edges.
- Apply and press firmly.
- Start at one edge and smooth down gradually. Press out any air pockets.
- Seal edges (optional).
- Use edge sealers for environments with heavy rain, snow, or chemicals.
Allow the tape to cure for several hours before use.
Best Jessup Anti Slip Tapes for Outdoor Stairs
Jessup Manufacturing offers industry-grade anti slip tapes built to handle rugged outdoor conditions. Here are the top options:
24 Grit Xtreme® Anti-Slip Tape
- Built for extreme use
- Aggressive grit for boots, mud, and high-impact work areas
- Withstands snow, heavy rainfall, and pressure washing
- Ideal for stairs at industrial sites or exposed construction zones
Recommended for: Mining sites, refineries, outdoor loading docks, job site stairs
46 Grit Heavy Duty Safety Track®
- High-traction grip for tough outdoor areas
- Designed for both residential and commercial stairs
- Durable in both wet and dry environments
- Compatible with concrete, wood, and metal
Recommended for: Apartment complexes, warehouse stairs, building entry steps
60 Grit Safety Track® General Purpose Tape
- Moderate grit for standard safety needs
- Excellent balance between comfort and slip prevention
- UV and chemical resistant
- Available in black, black/yellow, and other visibility-enhancing styles
Recommended for: Porches, decks, schools, and office entrances
Glow-in-the-Dark Photoluminescent Tape
- Adds visibility during power outages or at night
- Grit surface for traction + glow strip for guidance
- Charges with ambient light
- Safe for residential and commercial stairways
Recommended for: Emergency staircases, dimly lit outdoor areas, public access zones
Common Questions
How long does Jessup anti slip tape last outdoors?
With proper installation, Jessup tapes can last 1–3 years or longer, depending on traffic and weather exposure.
Can it be used on wet surfaces?
Only install on dry surfaces. Wait for clear weather before application.
What’s the best grit for general outdoor stairs?
60 grit is ideal for general use. 46 or 24 grit is better for industrial or rugged environments.
Does it work on wood?
Yes. Jessup’s adhesive bonds well with sealed or painted wood, as long as the surface is clean and dry.
Is sealing required?
Edge sealing is optional but recommended for outdoor locations with frequent rain, snow, or washing.
Choose the Right Tape for the Job
Every staircase is different. Consider:
- Who walks on the steps?
- What weather does your location face?
- Do you need extra visibility at night?
Jessup Manufacturing offers tapes that cover all of these needs with proven durability and performance.
If you're unsure which tape suits your specific application, reach out for technical support or product guidance. You’ll get a safer staircase with minimal effort and long-lasting results.When selecting the right tape, it's also important to think about the texture and color. A textured surface can provide better traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls, especially in high-traffic areas. Additionally, choosing a bright color or reflective tape can enhance visibility, making it easier for users to see the steps, particularly in low-light conditions.
Installation is straightforward. Start by measuring the length of each step to ensure you cut the tape to the correct size. Clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dust or debris, as this will help the adhesive bond more effectively. Once the surface is prepared, peel off the backing of the tape and carefully apply it, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles as you go.
After installation, allow the tape to set for a few hours before exposing it to heavy foot traffic. This will ensure that the adhesive has time to cure properly, providing a strong and durable bond. Regular maintenance is also key; check the tape periodically for wear and tear, and replace it as needed to maintain safety.
By taking these steps, you can create a safer environment for everyone who uses your staircase, whether it's in a home, office, or public space. With the right materials and a little effort, you can enhance both the safety and aesthetics of your stairs.
