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Best Floor Covering For Stairs (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an effective way to enhance the appearance of your stairs and provide a safer walking surface, investing in a quality floor covering is a must. Choosing the right product for your stairs, however, can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the different options available on the market today.

Before making a purchase, there are several factors that you need to consider. One of the most important things to take into account is the durability of the material. Stairs experience heavy foot traffic that can cause wear and tear over time, so it’s important to choose a floor covering that can withstand this kind of pressure. You should also take into account the level of slip resistance the product offers, as slippery stairs can be dangerous and pose a risk to your safety.

With so many options available, it can be tough to decide which floor covering is right for your needs. Are you looking for a stylish option that complements your home décor? Do you prefer a low-maintenance, easy to clean material? Would you like a floor covering that’s easy to install and affordable? These are just some of the questions that you can expect to be answered as we delve into the best floor coverings for stairs in our upcoming articles. Stay tuned!

10 Best Floor Covering For Stairs

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for providing durable and decorative floor covering for indoor/outdoor staircases that trap water.
2
This product is ideal for protecting stairs from dirt and moisture, both indoors and outdoors.
3
This product is ideal for indoor and outdoor areas that require a durable and decorative floor covering with water-trapping capabilities.
4
The product is ideal as a durable and decorative floor covering for indoor/outdoor use, designed to trap water and dirt.
5
Ideal for indoor/outdoor use, durable and decorative floor covering that traps water and enhances safety on stairs. Made in USA.
6
Ideal for indoor and outdoor high-traffic areas such as hallways, stairs, living rooms, and backyards, with non-slip and easy-cleaning features.
7
Ideal for use as stair treads for indoor or outdoor areas to trap water and provide durable and decorative floor covering.
8
The product is ideal for providing a finished edge to hardwood floors where they meet stairs, creating a smooth transition.
9
Ideal for protecting stairs, rugs, carpets, and floors from punctures and water damage with a reverse wind roll.
10
The product is ideal for protecting carpets, rugs, stairs, and floors from damage or dirt during renovation or moving.
This product is ideal for providing durable and decorative floor covering for indoor/outdoor staircases that trap water.
This product is ideal for protecting stairs from dirt and moisture, both indoors and outdoors.
This product is ideal for indoor and outdoor areas that require a durable and decorative floor covering with water-trapping capabilities.
The product is ideal as a durable and decorative floor covering for indoor/outdoor use, designed to trap water and dirt.
Ideal for indoor/outdoor use, durable and decorative floor covering that traps water and enhances safety on stairs. Made in USA.
Ideal for indoor and outdoor high-traffic areas such as hallways, stairs, living rooms, and backyards, with non-slip and easy-cleaning features.
Ideal for use as stair treads for indoor or outdoor areas to trap water and provide durable and decorative floor covering.
The product is ideal for providing a finished edge to hardwood floors where they meet stairs, creating a smooth transition.
Ideal for protecting stairs, rugs, carpets, and floors from punctures and water damage with a reverse wind roll.
The product is ideal for protecting carpets, rugs, stairs, and floors from damage or dirt during renovation or moving.

1. Waterhog Stair Treads – Keen On Khaki!

Make your staircase skid-resistant and reduce the risk of slipping or falling with these quick-drying staircase treads. These treads are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and are safe to use on any floor surface. The ridged abstract design and rubber border capture and hold up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard, thanks to the exclusive "Water Dam" feature.

These treads are made with premium PET fiber surface, which is constructed using up to 94% recycled materials. Additionally, the durable rubber backing is made of 20% recycled SBR rubber (Styrene Butadiene Rubber). This 100% USA made product is eco-friendly and can stand up to extreme elements.

Each set includes four treads, each measuring 30 inches long by 8.5 inches wide by 3/8 inches high. The treads are shipped rolled and flatten quickly once unpackaged. For maximum traction in high-traffic areas, add double-sided tape to ensure secure support where needed. You can shake or vacuum to remove loose dirt and hose clean the treads. Line dry and ensure all flooring surfaces are clean and dry before application.

Protect your staircase and loved ones with these skid-resistant and quick-drying treads. These treads are durable, easy to clean, and eco-friendly. They are made with high-quality materials and provide a safe and secure surface to walk on.

Pros

  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
  • Safe to use on any floor surface
  • Exclusive "Water Dam" feature captures and holds up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard
  • Made with premium PET fiber surface and durable rubber backing, which is constructed using recycled materials
  • Easy to clean and maintain

Cons

  • – Double-sided tape may be required for maximum traction in high-traffic areas

2. Water-Trapping Stair Treads By Bungalow Flooring

The skid-resistant and quick-drying staircase treads are perfect to use indoors or outdoors, as they are safe for any floor surface. These treads are designed to protect you from falling or slipping. The ridged floral design and rubber border of the treads capture and hold up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard, thanks to the exclusive 'Water Dam' feature. The treads are made of premium PET fiber surface, which is made with up to 94% of recycled materials. The high-grade construction of the treads can withstand extreme elements. The treads measure 30-inches long by 8-1/2-inches wide by 3/8-inches high, and the set includes four treads. The treads are shipped rolled, and they flatten quickly once unpackaged. To ensure maximum traction in high-traffic areas, add double-sided tape for secure support where needed. Shake or vacuum the treads to remove loose dirt, hose clean and line dry for easy and durable cleaning.

Pros

  • Suitable for indoor or outdoor use and safe on any floor surfaces
  • Exclusive 'Water Dam' feature captures and holds up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard
  • Premium PET fiber surface made with up to 94% recycled materials
  • High-grade construction can withstand extreme elements
  • Durable and easy to clean by hosing and line drying

Cons

  • – Double-sided tape is required for maximum traction in high-traffic areas
  • – The treads are shipped rolled, which may cause inconvenience to some users

3. Waterhog Boxwood Stair Treads: Durable Indoor/outdoor Covering

Keep yourself and your loved ones safe from slips and falls with these skid-resistant and quick-drying staircase treads. These treads can be used both indoors and outdoors and are safe on any floor surface. The ridged floral design and rubber border keep water and debris on the stair treads to prevent accidents.

These treads come in a set of four, each measuring 30-inches long by 8-1/2-inches wide by 3/8-inches high. They are made with high-quality, eco-friendly materials, including a premium PET fiber surface that is made with up to 94% recycled materials. The durable rubber backing is made of 20% recycled SBR rubber (Styrene Butadiene Rubber).

One of the unique features of these treads is the exclusive "Water Dam" technology that holds up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard of fabric. This makes them perfect for use in areas where water is a concern. Additionally, the treads are durable and can stand up to extreme weather conditions.

To install, ensure that all flooring surfaces are clean and dry before application. For maximum traction in high-traffic areas, add double-sided tape to ensure secure support where needed. The treads can be easily cleaned by shaking or vacuuming to remove loose dirt. They can also be hosed off and line dried for a thorough cleaning.

Pros

  • Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
  • Safe on any floor surfaces
  • Can capture and hold up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard
  • Made with eco-friendly materials
  • Durable and can stand up to extreme weather conditions

Cons

  • – May require additional double-sided tape for maximum traction in high-traffic areas

4. Water-Trapping Stair Treads With Dogwood Design

Reduce the risk of slipping or falling with the skid-resistant staircase treads that can be used indoors or outdoors. These treads are safe to use on any floor surface, protecting your staircase from damage. The ridged leaf design and rubber border capture and hold up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard of fabric, ensuring that your stairs remain dry and clean. The exclusive water dam feature of these treads prevents water and debris from spreading on your stairs. With a premium PET fiber surface made with up to 94% recycled materials, these treads are eco-friendly and durable. The high-grade construction of these treads can withstand extreme elements, making them perfect for long-term use. The durable rubber backing is made of 20% recycled SBR rubber (Styrene Butadiene Rubber).

This set of four treads each measures 30-inches long by 8-1/2-inches wide by 3/8-inches high. They are shipped rolled and can be flattened quickly once unpackaged. These treads are easy to clean and maintain. Ensure that all flooring surfaces are clean and dry before application. For maximum traction in high-traffic areas, add double-sided tape to ensure secure support where needed. The treads can be shaken or vacuumed to remove loose dirt or hosed clean and line dried. These treads are made in the USA and represent eco-friendly quality construction.

Pros

  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
  • Skid-resistant and safe on any floor surfaces
  • Exclusive "Water Dam" feature captures and holds up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard of fabric
  • Premium PET fiber surface made with up to 94% recycled materials, making them eco-friendly
  • Durable rubber backing is made of 20% recycled SBR rubber
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Made in the USA with eco-friendly quality construction

Cons

  • – May require additional double-sided tape for maximum traction in high-traffic areas

5. Water-Trapping Stair Treads For Beautiful Indoors/outdoors

The skid-resistant staircase treads are an ideal solution to reduce the risk of slipping or falling while also protecting your staircase. These treads can be safely used indoors or outdoors, and can be placed on any floor surface without causing any damage. The treads come with a ridged abstract design and rubber border that effectively capture and hold up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard of fabric, thanks to its exclusive 'Water Dam' feature. This keeps the treads dry and debris-free, ensuring maximum safety at all times.

The treads are made of premium PET fiber surface that contains up to 94% recycled materials, making them eco-friendly. The high-grade construction of the treads can withstand extreme elements, making them durable and long-lasting. The treads are 100% USA-made and feature a rubber backing made of 20% recycled SBR rubber (Styrene Butadiene Rubber). The set includes four treads, each measuring 30-inches long by 8-1/2-inches wide by 3/8-inches high. The treads are shipped rolled and can be flattened quickly once unpackaged.

To ensure maximum traction in high-traffic areas, double-sided tape can be added to provide secure support where needed. The treads are easy to clean and maintain. Ensure that all flooring surfaces are clean and dry before application. Simply shake or vacuum to remove loose dirt, hose clean, and line dry.

Pros

  • Suitable for indoor or outdoor use on any floor surface
  • Exclusive 'Water Dam' feature captures and holds up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard of fabric
  • Premium PET fiber surface made with up to 94% recycled materials
  • Durable construction withstands extreme elements
  • Easy to install and flatten quickly once unpackaged
  • Easy to clean and maintain

Cons

  • – Double-sided tape may be required for maximum traction in high-traffic areas

6. Durable Non-Slip Floral Runner For Modern Spaces.

Add a touch of elegance to any room with this Creative Area Rug. Measuring approximately 60 inches by 24 inches, with a thickness of 7mm, this rug is perfect for adding personality to any space. The rustic style design is cool and attractive, making it an eye-catching addition to your home.

Constructed with premium nylon fibers and reinforced overlock edges, this rug is extremely robust and long-lasting. The reinforced edges add to the wear-stain-and-shed-free performance, while the rubber backing ensures optimum skid resistance, eliminating any slipping and falling situations.

This rug is also easy to clean with minimal effort. It is durable, colorfast, and offers carefree maintenance. Regular vacuuming will help it remain attractive and serviceable for a long time. All of these exclusive features make this rug the envy of your friends.

This rug is a great choice for a variety of applications, including entrance doormat, laundry room rug in front of washer and dryer, washroom floor carpet, kitchen rug runner, and bathroom rug. It is not only good-looking but also functional.

Every product shipped is inspected to ensure quality. If there is a problem with the product, the seller offers an unconditional exchange or refund policy. They are committed to providing a good shopping experience for their customers.

Pros

  • Attractive rustic style design adds personality to any space
  • Constructed with premium nylon fibers and reinforced overlock edges for a long-lasting, wear-stain-and-shed-free performance
  • Rubber backing ensures optimum skid resistance to prevent slipping and falling situations
  • Easy to clean and maintain with regular vacuuming
  • Suitable for a variety of applications

Cons

  • – No information provided on the specific cleaning instructions

7. Usa-Made Cordova Collection Waterhog Stair Treads.

Reduce the risk of slipping or falling and protect your staircase with these skid-resistant and quick-drying treads. They are suitable for use both indoors and outdoors, and safe to use on any floor surface. The ridged abstract design and rubber border are specifically made to keep water and debris on the stair treads.

The exclusive "Water Dam" feature of these treads captures and holds up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard of fabric. Made with 100% USA-made and eco-friendly quality construction, these treads feature a premium PET fiber surface, made with up to 94% recycled materials. They are durable and can withstand extreme elements, thanks to the high-grade construction, and the durable rubber backing that is made of 20% recycled SBR rubber (Styrene Butadiene Rubber).

Each set of these treads includes four treads, each measuring 30-inches long by 8-1/2-inches wide by 3/8-inches high. The treads are shipped rolled and flatten quickly once unpackaged. They are easy to clean, and all flooring surfaces should be clean and dry before application. For maximum traction in high-traffic areas, double-sided tape should be added to ensure secure support where needed. To clean, simply shake or vacuum to remove loose dirt, hose clean, and line dry.

Pros

  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
  • Safe to use on any floor surface.
  • Exclusive "Water Dam" feature captures and holds up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard of fabric.
  • Premium PET fiber surface made with up to 94% recycled materials.
  • Durable and can withstand extreme elements.
  • Easy to clean.

Cons

  • – Double-sided tape may be needed for maximum traction in high-traffic areas.

8. Forest Click & Tap Stair Trim – Wake Oak

Upgrade your staircase with this high-quality Flush Stair Nose Trim made from pre-finished engineered Oak wood. The trim is UV resistant, scratch, stain, fade, water and dent resistant, ensuring the longevity of the product with a Janka Hardness Rating (PSI) of 1360. It is backed by both residential and commercial warranties, providing peace of mind for the user. This environmentally friendly product is 100% made in the USA.

The trim can be easily installed by a DIY enthusiast, below grade, on grade, or above grade using nail down or staple installation methods. Each carton contains one piece of 3.8 inches Flush Stair Nose Molding, 78 inches long x 2.375 inches wide x 0.8 inch thick at the thickest and 0.375 inches thick at the thinnest point. As it is made from real wood, natural variation may occur. Each piece is made to order, so please allow up to 7-10 days lead time for delivery.

Pros

  • Made from pre-finished engineered Oak wood ensuring durability and longevity
  • UV, scratch, stain, fade, water, and dent resistant
  • Backed by both residential and commercial warranties
  • Easy installation using nail down or staple methods
  • Environmentally friendly as it is 100% made in the USA
  • Made to order ensuring the highest quality and customization

Cons

  • – Natural variations may occur due to the product being made from real wood
  • – Lead time of 7-10 days may be required as each piece is made to order

9. Kenley Heavy Duty Carpet Protector Film

The Kenley Carpet Protection Film is the perfect solution to keep your carpets safe from dirt, water, paint, bleach, mud, and debris that can cause permanent damage or stains. This protection film is easy to apply, and the adhesive is carefully selected to make it simple. The adhesive is on the outside of the reel, which makes it easy to unroll and overlap lengths, ensuring full coverage. With a width of 36in (91cm) and a length of 200ft (61m), you will have plenty of coverage.

This Kenley carpet protector film uses a special adhesive that will keep it in place and lift-off without damaging the carpet or leaving any residue, making it easy to remove. After finishing the work, deal with any significant spills or debris before selecting a corner and pulling the film. Thicker and tougher than ever before, Kenley's 70 micron plastic carpet protector is designed to be walked on and worked on for up to 45 days. It is waterproof, lightweight, and designed for indoor use only. This paint protection film works hard to keep paint and other liquid spills away from the carpet, giving you enough time to clean up and finish the job.

Pros

  • Easy to apply and overlap lengths to ensure full coverage
  • Thicker and tougher 70 micron plastic carpet protector
  • Uses a special adhesive that lifts off without damaging the carpet or leaving any residue
  • Waterproof and lightweight
  • Allows for up to 45 days of walking and working on the carpet

Cons

  • – Designed for indoor use only

10. Carpet Shield: Self-Adhesive Surface Protection Film

Protect your carpets and floors effortlessly with this roll of plastic carpet protector. Measuring about 24 inches by 200 feet, this sturdy and large protector is perfect to save you cleaning time, expensive cleanup costs, or carpet replacement. Made of high-quality 6mm PE material, this carpet protector film has high tensile force, high transparency, waterproof and tear-resistant features. Additionally, it has high viscosity and is not easy to degumming. It is suitable for various projects or activities and ideal for home, office, bedroom, study room, and more. However, it should not be applied to wool or silk.

This adhesive carpet protection can withstand rough treatment during renovation, making it more appropriate for most projects. The installation process is easy and can be used by beginners as well. Just find the starting point, paste it on the carpet, and stretch it in the opposite direction. The plastic floor protector roll removes easily and cleanly after use without worrying about annoying marks or residue from adhesive. This plastic floor protector can stay in place for 45 days.

Pros

  • Protects carpets and floors effectively from dirt, dust, paint, and more
  • Made of high-quality 6mm PE material
  • Waterproof and tear-resistant
  • High viscosity and not easy to degumming
  • Easy to install and remove
  • Suitable for various projects or activities
  • Ideal for home, office, bedroom, study room, and more
  • Stays in place for 45 days

Cons

  • – Not suitable for wool or silk carpets

Best Floor Covering For Stairs FAQs

Can I install carpet on my stairs, or are there better options?

Yes, you can definitely install carpet on your stairs. In fact, carpeted stairs are quite common and offer several benefits. They provide a cushioned surface that can reduce the risk of slipping and falling, especially for children and pets. Carpeted stairs also absorb noise, making them a great option for homes with multiple levels or for those who prefer a quieter environment.

However, there are also other options for stairs that you may want to consider. Hardwood or laminate flooring is a popular choice for stairs as they offer durability and a classic look. They are also easy to clean and maintain. Another option is to install tile or stone on your stairs, which can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home.

Ultimately, the choice of flooring for your stairs will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and lifestyle. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best suits your needs.

How do I calculate the amount of flooring needed for my staircase, and what is the average cost per square foot for stair coverings?

Calculating the amount of flooring needed for your staircase is a fairly simple process. First, measure the length and width of each step, as well as the height of the riser. Multiply the length by the width to get the area of each step, and add the area of all the steps together. Then, multiply the total area by the number of steps to get the total amount of flooring needed.

As for the average cost per square foot for stair coverings, it can vary depending on the material you choose. Some popular options include carpet, hardwood, laminate, and tile. Generally, carpet is the most affordable option, with an average cost of $3-$5 per square foot. Hardwood can range from $10-$15 per square foot, while laminate and tile can cost $5-$10 per square foot. Keep in mind that installation costs may also be added on top of the cost of the materials.

Ultimately, the cost will depend on your personal preferences and budget. It's important to do your research and compare prices to find the best option for your staircase.

How do I choose the right type of floor covering for my stairs?

Choosing the right type of floor covering for your stairs can be a challenging task. There are various factors that you need to consider when making your decision. The first factor to consider is the material of the covering. The most popular materials for stair covering are carpet, hardwood, laminate, and tile. Each material has its own pros and cons. For example, carpet provides comfort and safety, but it can be difficult to clean. Hardwood and laminate are durable and easy to maintain, but they can be slippery. Tile is waterproof and easy to clean, but it can be cold and hard underfoot.

Another factor to consider is the style of your stairs. If your stairs have a curved or spiral design, you may need to choose a material that can be molded to fit the shape of the stairs. Additionally, you should consider the color and pattern of the covering to ensure that it complements the decor of your home.

Finally, you should consider your budget. Some materials, such as hardwood, can be expensive, while others, such as carpet, can be more affordable. It's important to choose a material that fits your budget while also meeting your needs in terms of durability, safety, and style.

What are the best floor coverings for stairs in terms of safety and durability?

When it comes to choosing the best floor coverings for stairs, safety and durability are two key factors to consider. Stairs can be a high traffic area in any home or commercial building, and as such, the flooring material chosen must be able to withstand heavy foot traffic while being slip-resistant to prevent accidents.

One of the best options for stair coverings is carpet. Not only does it provide good traction, but it also offers a cushioned surface that can help reduce the impact of falls. However, it's essential to choose a low pile and tight-looped carpet to prevent tripping hazards.

Another great option is hardwood or engineered wood flooring. These materials are durable and can be sanded and refinished if damaged. Additionally, they offer good traction and are easy to clean.

For those looking for a more modern look, laminate and vinyl flooring are also good options. They are water-resistant and easy to clean, making them ideal for high traffic areas like stairs.

Ultimately, the best choice for stair coverings will depend on personal preferences, budget, and the specific needs of the space. It's always best to consult with a flooring professional to help determine which option is best suited for your needs.

What are the pros and cons of using hardwood versus laminate flooring for stair coverings?

Hardwood and laminate flooring are both popular options for stair coverings. Hardwood is natural wood flooring that is durable, long-lasting, and adds value to a home. On the other hand, laminate flooring is made from synthetic materials and is known for its affordability and easy installation.

One of the main pros of hardwood flooring for stairs is its beauty and natural look. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes, and can add a touch of elegance to any home. Hardwood is also durable and can withstand heavy traffic, making it a good option for stairs. However, hardwood can be expensive and may require professional installation, which can add to the total cost.

Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is a more affordable option for stairs. It is also easy to install and can be done as a DIY project. Laminate flooring is also durable and resistant to scratches and stains. However, it may not have the same natural look and feel as hardwood and may not add much value to a home.

In conclusion, both hardwood and laminate flooring have their pros and cons when it comes to stair coverings. Hardwood is beautiful and durable but can be expensive, while laminate is affordable and easy to install but may not have the same natural look and feel as hardwood. Ultimately, the choice will depend on personal preference and budget.

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