To make staircases safe and free from slippage related accidents, it is best to use non-slip treads on them. Though carpeting is regarded as a viable option, most people prefer keeping wooden stairs bare. In these circumstances, it is best to use non-slip stair tapes so children or adults running up or down the stairs do not slip and get injured. This precautionary measure is a good alternative, specifically in areas which are generally wet or soggy.
The best option of keeping these stairs safe is to use different kinds of non-slip treads that are available in the market.
- Rubber Treads: These can be installed on most surfaces and are durable and easy to clean
- Non Slip Tape: These are regarded as some of the most non expensive options to be used on stairs of all kinds. Additional non-slip tape options are available for wet areas like showers, swimming pools and locker rooms to reduce slips on water slicked surfaces.
Types of Non Slip Stair tapes
There are several types of tapes/treads which can be installed on staircases depending on usage and budget for ensuring that they are free of mishaps or injuries. While some are bright and colorful, others have cautionary messages printed on them. A few others are made waterproof so that they can be used on wet surfaces. They are slightly rough in texture which helps them provide the right kind of slippage control across staircases, especially inside homes, factories, offices, schools, parks etc. There are also anti-skid tapes which glow in the dark for use in warehouses and areas with poor lighting so that people walking in these areas can be careful.
There are varieties of anti-slip tapes which can be used in corridors or very wide staircases and are easy to install. They however need to be installed by a professional due to their unmanageable size and should be used in areas like warehouses or factories.
Installation of non-slip tapes:
Only a few basic tools are required to install non slip stair tread/tapes. Since treads/tape are generally larger than stairs, its best to measure each and cut accordingly to fit each stair. After cutting tread/tape accordingly push it into place again to check the exact fit and glue them into place. Always work down the staircase to avoid disturbing completed work. Apply epoxy glue on the back of stair tape and push firmly to avoid air bubbles. Press roller firmly over the glued tape/tread a couple of times to ensure that it is fixed firmly. Cement is most durable; especially in situations when you have to enable firm fixing of rubber non-slip treads contact. After fixing this treads/tape, you should avoid using the stairs for several hours.
Conclusion:
Non-slip stair tapes are a useful precautionary measure against medical costs; especially when the incidents cause injury to family members and/or office/factory employees. The little cost involved in setting up anti-slip stair tapes will show the employer’s care towards his staff. If it is done in an aesthetic manner, these tapes will enhance the look of the wooden stairs at home and will also encourage others to take similar measures in and around their surroundings.
Jim Terry is a home renovation expert and likes to write about it. He spends most of his time testing safety equipments and an Anti Slip Tape is his favorite which is a perfect tool to make your home and workplace a safer place.
