Are Stair Tread Rugs Dangerous?

Drawbacks

• Drawbacks to using stair tread rugs can be avoided with careful application. If you use a weak adhesive to glue the rug to your stairs or neglect to follow the directions carefully, the stair tread rug could become loose and slide, possibly causing a dangerous slip and fall accident in the home. Also, applying the adhesive too liberally without properly protecting the wood underneath can lead to permanent damage of the wood when the stair tread rug is removed. Read installation directions carefully before installing your stair tread rug, and seek professional assistance if necessary.

Benefits

• Stair tread rugs aren't dangerous if installed properly; in fact, they carry numerous benefits. The rugs cushion feet from hardwood floors and insulate your steps to absorb heat in the wintertime. Stair tread rugs muffle noise from boisterous kids and teens bounding up and down the steps, which is especially helpful if you have an office underneath your stairs or live in an apartment building above people who need quiet. Stair tread rugs also protect the elderly and small children from accidentally slipping on a sleek wood surface while navigating the steps. They protect your stairs from everyday wear and tear and help prevent fragile items from breaking if dropped. The treads are easily replaced, easier to clean than carpet and come in a variety of colors, textures and designs to complement your home decor.

Types of Stair Tread Rugs

• Stair tread rugs come in several types of material besides carpet, including vinyl, wood, rubber and other durable nonslip materials. They can be applied to carpeted stairs as well as wooden and concrete steps. Stair tread rugs are helpful at home, but they're also essential for public safety in businesses, restaurants, sports arenas and other establishments that have heavy stair traffic.

Tips

• Prepare your steps before installing stair treads. Steps must be dry and clean and should not be covered in grease, oil, rust, varnish, paint, old coverings or adhesives or anything that would prevent the stair tread from fitting and adhering to the step properly. If your steps have any holes, cracks, depressions or the like, fill, seal and smooth out the irregularity before installing your stair tread rugs.