Overlays for slip resistance typically rest on top of the treads and may be secured with a removable fastening system or adhesive. Overlays that are designed primarily for aesthetics often cover the old treads and risers completely, so the staircase looks totally renewed. Staircase overlays are a great way to overhaul your stairs without rebuilding. They offer the look of custom hardwood stairs at a much lower price. Installing an overlay system requires some basic carpentry skills and tools for quality results, so it’s best for beginners to hire out the installation. But, skilled do-it-yourselfers can certainly tackle it themselves. These overlays are essentially the same material as laminate flooring, consisting of a fiberboard core covered with a photo layer for the natural wood look. On top is a clear, tough wear layer. The pieces install over bare wood stair parts with construction adhesive. Rubber mats are simply set in place without fasteners or glue. Most types have a scrollwork pattern that mimics old-fashioned ironwork. They can be pulled up and hosed off for easy cleaning. Composite tread covers are suitable for all outdoor stairs as well as basement stairs, garage steps, and stairs near swimming pools. Because they cover the entire tread, they can hide surface damage and other imperfections, but they must be used on structurally sound steps. They cannot replace treads. These synthetic, sisal-like mats are relatively inexpensive and offer an easy way to add much-needed grip to slippery wood stairs. They don’t add much aesthetic value, but they improve safety without completely concealing the tread. Bullnose carpet stair covers are removable and are designed for traditional hardwood stairs. They do not cover the entire tread and do not include riser pieces. Clear tread strips typically come in kits that include a small handheld roller tool to help you flatten the strips and bond them to the step treads.
