Rubber Stair Tread

Rubber stair tread and other non slip stair surfacing can prevent nasty falls and even prevent deaths. They help protect you, your loved ones, friends, and other visitors.

On any staircases that are potentially slippery, it simply makes sense. In fact if you don't have any type of non slip surface you may be guilty of negligence (I'm not a lawyer and have no legal training, so talk to your lawyer if necessary).

Safety is the biggest reason for stair treads, whether rubber, rug, vinyl, etc.

Just today I slipped on the stairs of a summer cottage in the rain. It wasn't dark, there were no leaves or other debris, no obstacles in the way, and I'm relatively fit, limber, and in shape. And I slipped and almost fell, a possible serious fall. You can bet I'm added rubber stair treads in the very very near future!

I'm going to add a very straightforward and simple rubber stair tread, perhaps 3 sets of Rubber Stair Tread/Step Guards. Each set covers 2 stairs and I have six stairs total in this area. They are cheap, functional, and easy to use.

There are more involved treads available, even heated ones to help with ice and snow in the winter. For example I may put Heat Trak Heated Rubber Stair Treads on my elderly mother in laws front step of her new house, depending on whether ice and snow accumulate there this winter. It's not inexpensive, but compared to a bonk in the head, a broken hip, or a law suit, it's a real bargain.

Some stair treads come with a non skid backing; you simply lay them down like a welcome mat. Others come with an adhesive backing, or you may somehow glue, nail, or otherwise attach.

Besides safely, decor is another reason for stair treads. They come in all kinds of patterns to suit your taste including scrolls, flowers, plants, and even seasonal motifs like Christmas patterns.

A third reason is to protect your stairs from wear and tear. Stairs and staircases tend to be high traffic and hence high wear areas, and it's much easier to replace stair tread than to replace or repair stairs!

Besides straightforward rubber, stair treads can be made of different kinds of material as well. Carpet is popular, especially indoors but outdoor versions are popular as well. Vinyl and aluminum are other options as well. Another option, although I don't think it's attractive, is non slip tape. It's great in areas that are not very visible or that are smaller, like ladder steps, boat rails, truck running boards, etc.