5 Best Stair Tread Materials (Which Is Best for Your Home/Business?)
Are you building a new home or business space? Maybe you are renovating your existing one. Creating a staircase that fits your lifestyle and needs is an important consideration. And that includes deciding on stair treads.
Staircases are about more than just aesthetic appeal of course. They are primarily functional, therefore the material you use for their treads needs to stand up to regular use.
But which stair tread material should you select? That’s why we have created this article, to help you understand the best type of treads for your space.
Let’s get started.
How to Figure Out the Best Tread for Your Staircase
Just like flooring, your stair tread material plays an essential role in improving the functionality of your home. Discover the best stair tread options for your home or business.
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Wooden Treads
Wooden stair treads are an excellent choice for both homes and businesses. But there are a couple of things you need to consider. First is the area of application. Are you planning to install them indoors or outdoors? Because certain wood species do not hold up well in outdoor weather.
Just like hardwood flooring, wooden stair treads are not water-resistant. So, it is not advisable to install them outside. If you still want hardwood stair treads for outdoor stairs, make sure you maintain them well. On the other hand, for an interior project, wooden stair treads are a wonderful way to add warmth to your space and increase the value of your property.
Your second consideration is the type of wood. Each hardwood species has unique characteristics. For instance, if you are selecting oak stair treads, it’s essential to know everything about oak flooring or treads before buying them.
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Tile Treads
Long-lasting, durable and stylish, tile treads are definitely a good choice for stair treads. In addition to these qualities, tiles are a great alternative to wood. If you are looking for something low maintenance and durable that can survive harsh weather, tile is worth thinking about.
The only downside is that tiles can be slippery. Slip & fall injuries can be dangerous to both families and customers. Make sure to choose textured tiles in outdoor areas to improve traction.
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Composite Treads
Need stair treads that require minimal maintenance and are suitable for high-traffic areas? Then consider composite treads as they are resistant to both fading and slipping. Composite stair treads are ideal for residential or commercial purposes, especially for outdoor applications.
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Stone Treads
Stone stair treads are widely used for both indoor and outdoor applications. Structurally sound and highly durable, they are also unique to look at, require minimal upkeep, and suit a variety of spaces.
On the downside, they tend to be heavy, so make sure your staircase can accommodate them. If you have stone flooring, then staircase treads in the same stone help create a cohesive look. They can also be expensive, so check your budget.
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Metal Treads
Metal treads are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. If you are looking for treads that exude a strong industrial appeal, then this is the one to install.
When you install metal stair treads, it is important to provide some sort of slip resistance; otherwise, slips and falls are to be expected. Also, iron treads may be prone to rusting, especially outside, so regular maintenance is important.
Choosing the right stair treads enhances your everyday life at home and your customers’ at your business. You will be regularly using your stairs, so if your stair treads are not suitable, they will damage quickly, leading to possible accidents, constant repairs, and expenses. Take your time and select an appropriate style of stair tread that suits your lifestyle and budget. Visit your nearest home renovation store that deals in staircase treads and get started on your project today.
