Carpet stair treads are a great solution for otherwise slippery or unattractive steps.
Another option is to just put some nosing on your outdoor stairs.
Exterior stair nosings for concrete are a simple way to make your outdoor steps safer and look better.
These nosings help you see where each step ends, and they give you more grip so you don't slip.
Using stair nosings on concrete can help your stairs be safer.
Do Concrete Steps Need Nosing?
Different types of stair nosing meets different needs.
Concrete steps, especially outside, really need nosing for a few reasons:
- Safety First: Concrete can get really slippery when it's wet or icy. Stair nosings give your feet something to grip, making falls less likely.
- Last Longer: Stair nosings protect the edges of your steps from chipping and wearing out, which helps them last longer.
- See Clearly: Nosings can be in a different color, making the edges of the steps easier to see. This is super helpful when it's dark or dim outside.
Without stair nosings, concrete steps can wear down quickly and become dangerous, especially when the weather isn’t great.
Many people are looking into ways to make their steps safer - whether it's by using stair treads, rubber stair nosing, or another option.
How to Install Stair Nosing on Concrete
Putting stair nosing on concrete steps isn't too hard.
You just need a few tools and a bit of patience.
Here’s how you can do it:
What You Need
- Exterior stair nosings
- Concrete adhesive or screws (depending on your nosing type)
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or chalk
- Protective gloves
- Safety goggles
Steps to Follow
- Measure and Mark: Measure the width of your steps and cut the nosing to fit. Use a pencil or chalk to mark where the nosing will go.
- Apply Adhesive: For adhesive-backed nosings, spread a good amount of concrete adhesive on the underside. For screw-in types, drill small pilot holes in the concrete at your marks.
- Place the Nosing: Carefully place the nosing on the edge of the step, lining it up with your marks. Press down firmly.
- Secure It: If you’re using screws, put them in the pilot holes to keep the nosing in place. If you’re using adhesive, hold the nosing down until it sticks well.
- Finish Up: Let the adhesive dry completely. Check the nosing to make sure it’s on tight before you use the steps.
How Do You Make Outdoor Concrete Steps Safer?
Keeping your outdoor concrete steps safe is really important.
Here are some easy ways to do it:
-
Non-Slip Coatings
You can put non-slip coatings or paints on the steps to make them less slippery.
These are great for wet or icy conditions.
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Add Handrails
Handrails on both sides of your stairs give extra support.
They’re especially helpful for kids, older folks, and anyone who needs a little help getting up and down the steps.
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Better Lighting
Good lighting around your steps makes them easier to see at night.
Try using motion-sensor lights or pathway lights.
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Anti-Slip Tapes
Anti-slip tapes are another great option.
They stick right onto the step surface and come in different colors and textures.
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Keep It Clean
Regularly clean your steps to get rid of dirt, moss, and algae.
Keeping the steps clean helps them stay safe and looking nice
Final Thoughts
Exterior stair nosings for concrete are a must-have for making your outdoor steps safer and longer-lasting.
With these nosings, you can prevent slips and falls and protect your steps from wear and tear.
While we don't sell stair nosings at Oak Valley Designs, we do offer top-quality stair treads - including outdoor options - that blend safety with style.
We love making your home’s outdoor spaces both beautiful and practical.