What are Stair Tread Inserts and how are they used?

Stair Tread Inserts for Safety

Stair tread inserts are both tactile and visual indicators installed into steps to aid visibility of level changes as well as provide grip for those using the stairs. They are manufactured from metal and are available in multiple profiles and finishes. Stair tread inserts can be characterised as an alternative to stair nosing in part, as they provide two of the three key features of stair nosing. 

Can stair tread inserts replace stair nosing? 

While not a direct replacement for stair nosing, they provide most of the benefits while contributing an attractive finish to any location, particularly in the case of listed buildings and heritage sites. In order to completely mimic and replace stair nosing, a visual indicator on the stair riser must be present; this can be done through the insertion of a metal strip on the riser.  

Where can stair tread inserts be installed? 

Stair tread inserts can be installed internally and externally. They are primarily installed within stonework such as:  

• Granite 

• Limestone 

• Concrete 

• Marble 

• Many more stone surfaces 

They can also be installed into wooden steps.  

What metals are stair tread inserts manufactured from? 

Stair tread inserts are manufactured from multiple metals including stainless steel, aluminium, brass, and bronze.  

What profiles are stair tread inserts available in?  

Stair tread inserts can come in a wide variety of profiles, including bespoke profiles. These profiles are normally square or rectangular. Some common profiles include: 

• 12mm x 3mm 

• 12mm x 5mm 

• 6mm x 6mm 

How many stair tread inserts are needed? 

We recommend installing them as a group of three equally spaced stair tread inserts. 

What lengths are stair tread inserts available in?  

Stair tread insert lengths are largely dependent on the width of the stair tread they are to be installed into; however, they are available in set lengths. There are options for bespoke sizing to minimise the cutting prior to installation, ensuring a clean finish. 

Standard insert lengths are usually in meters.  

What metal finishes are available? 

Stair tread inserts can be finished with a satin polish or raw milled finish for all metals. Aluminium stair tread inserts can also be anodised to a variety of colours.  

How are stair tread inserts installed? 

Stair tread inserts can be retrofitted or installed directly into stonework from the mill. To retrofit, a section of the stonework matching the profile and length of the stair tread nosing is cut out. The debris and dust are then cleared before an appropriate adhesive is applied, and the stair tread insert is inserted. The insert must then be clamped or weighed down until the adhesive is set.  

What is the design life of a stair tread insert? 

The design life of a stair tread insert is 50 years, provided the correct installation instructions are followed.  

The benefits of stair tread inserts: 

• An attractive alternative to traditional stair nosing 

• They can be installed proud to provide increased slip-resistance 

• They can be installed flush as a classy finish to stone stairs 

• Retrofittable to existing stair sets 

• Available in multiple styles and metals 

• They provide a visual cue to indicate elevation change 

If you need help deciding on a stair tread insert for a project or are looking for an entirely bespoke design, call us on +44 01686 807 450 or email us at [email protected]