Spray Clear Anti-Slip Coating

What happens in this clip

As another solution, or in addition to abrasive strips, apply an anti-slip or slip-resistant coating to your steps. The video highlights a clear, spray-on coating that is applied directly to the step treads after they have been thoroughly cleaned and dried. This type of coating creates a transparent, textured surface that significantly increases friction without altering the appearance of the wood. Spray the coating evenly across the treads, following the manufacturer's instructions for application distance and drying time.

Goal: Create a transparent, slip-resistant surface

What's used

Materials

• Anti-Slip/Slip-Resistant Coating Rust-Oleum Epoxy Shield Anti-Slip (partially visible)
• Non-slip additive for sealers
• slip-resistant surface on step treads.

About the full video

This project outlines several methods to enhance the safety of outdoor wooden steps, decks, or walkways by making them less slippery. It covers cleaning the wood, applying peel-and-stick abrasive strips, and using a clear, spray-on anti-slip coating to prevent slips and falls.

Step 3 of 5: Apply Anti-Slip Coating

Choose an anti-slip coating designed for wood or general-purpose use. Stir the coating thoroughly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using a brush or roller, apply a thin, even coat to the first tread. Work your way across the stairs, applying one tread at a time to ensure consistent coverage and avoid creating a slip hazard on newly treated areas. Allow the first coat to dry completely as per the product's recommendations before applying a second coat, if necessary, for added durability and grip. Ensure good ventilation during application.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Make Oak Stairs Less Slippery

1. Step 1: Clean the Oak Stair Treads

   • 0:03–0:07 Prepare and Clean Stairs
   • 0:45–0:50 Scrub and Agitate the Wood Surface
   • 0:35–0:44 Apply Wood Cleaner to Stairs

2. Step 2: Sand the Stair Treads

   • 2:06–2:52 Sand Stair Treads and Risers
   • 1:01–1:17 Sand Stair Treads
   • 1:05–1:18 Vacuum Dust and Perform Fine Sanding

3. Step 3: Apply Anti-Slip Coating

   • 0:46–0:59 Spray Clear Anti-Slip Coating (this video)
   • 0:11–0:25 Apply First Coat of Non-Slip Spray
   • 2:27–3:10 Apply Paint to Stairs

4. Step 4: Apply Anti-Slip Tape or Strips

   • 1:12–1:19 Prepare Steps and Apply Non-Skid Strips
   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip
   • 1:14–1:23 Apply Non-Skid Strips to Steps

5. Step 5: Install Anti-Slip Treads or Risers

   • 0:18–0:37 Install Lower Stair Treads and Risers