Floating stair treads are a type of stair tread that is designed to give the appearance that the stairs are floating.
They can be a beautiful addition to any home's design, but when building you need to as, what is a safe floating stair tread thickness?
The minimum thickness for a floating stair tread is 1-1/4 inches.
This is to ensure that the stair tread is strong enough to withstand the weight of someone walking on it.
Carpet stair treads come in different thicknessness as well, and can be added to floating stairs to improve their look as well as their functionality.
Stair Safety and Floating Stairs
Stair-related accidents are a common cause of injury in homes and public spaces.
According to the National Safety Council, falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths in the United States.
Stairs are a major contributor to these falls, with over one million stair-related injuries occurring each year.
If the tread is too thin, it can break or collapse causing injury.
Additionally, the tread should be attached securely to the stringers with metal brackets or screws.
It is important to use the correct type of fasteners for the material the tread is made of.
In addition to the thickness of the stair tread, the riser height - or in this case, the space between the treads where the riser would be - is also important.
The maximum riser height should be 7-3/4 inches.
The riser height should be consistent throughout the staircase.
If the risers are different heights, it can create a tripping hazard.
Finally, it is important to use a handrail when building a floating staircase.
This will provide additional support and stability when walking up or down the stairs.
The handrail should be mounted securely to the wall or stringers.
It should also be the correct size and shape to provide a comfortable grip.
They are typically made from materials such as red oak, which is a durable and long-lasting wood.
The treads are attached to a floating stair system, which is a type of staircase that is not supported by a traditional stringer.
Instead, the treads are attached to a central support beam, which gives the stairs their floating appearance.
Understanding how Carpet Stair Treads Can Enhance Safety
Carpet stair treads are an effective way to enhance the safety of floating stairs.
They provide a non-slip surface that can improve traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Carpet stair treads can also help to absorb sound and reduce noise levels in the home.
There are several types of carpet stair treads available, including those made from natural fibers such as wool or sisal, as well as synthetic materials such as nylon or polyester.
They come in a range of colors and patterns to suit any decor style.
Installing carpet stair treads on floating stairs is a simple process that can be done by homeowners if you buy the right product.
For example, all of Oak Valley Design's stair treads have an adhesive backing so you can just peel and stick to your current wood floor.
A Step Up
Stair safety is an important consideration for homeowners, renters, and parents.
Floating stair treads are a popular choice for modern homes, but it's important to understand the importance of tread thickness and how it can affect safety.
Carpet stair treads are an effective way to enhance the safety of floating stairs and can be easily installed to improve traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls.
To find out if Oak Valley Design's stair treads will work with your floating stair design, please contact us.
We'll help you find what type of product will help make your home safe and beautiful!
