Make a Showstopping Entryway With These Eye-Catching Outdoor Stair Treads
A set of outdoor stairs can be so much more than just a way to get from point A to point B. With the right decorative touches, your outdoor staircase can become a beautiful design feature that makes a stunning first impression.
One easy way to elevate your outdoor stairs is by installing decorative treads. Available in a wide range of materials, textures, colors and designs, these treads are an affordable way to add personality, enhance safety and protect your existing stairs from wear and tear.
Choosing the Right Treads for Your Outdoor Stairs
With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to select the best decorative stair treads for your unique needs. Keep these key factors in mind as you shop to find the perfect fit.
Materials
Outdoor stair treads are constructed from durable materials that can withstand sun, rain, snow and daily use. Some top options include:
- Rubber - Extremely durable with excellent traction. Helps muffle noise from footsteps.
- Wood - Provides warmth and style. Easily customized with stains, paints and finishes.
- Metal - Sleek, modern look. Stainless steel and aluminum are corrosion-resistant.
- Recycled Plastic - Eco-friendly choice made from reused consumer plastics.
- Bamboo - Sustainable and naturally slip-resistant. Has a resilient but warm look.
- Cork - Made from renewable harvested tree bark. Provides good traction.
Textures & Finishes
The texture and finish of your stair treads will determine the overall look and function.
For the highest traction, look for aggressively textured treads like:
- Diamond plate
- Cross hatch
- Circles / dots
- Honeycomb
For a more understated style, consider treads with:
- Grooved lines
- Hammered metal
- Distressed wood
Colors & Patterns
Available in every color imaginable, decorative treads let you match your home's exterior or make a bold statement. Neutral earth tones always work well, but don't be afraid to get creative if you want your stairs to stand out.
For those seeking a truly custom look, some manufacturers offer patterned treads that can complement other finishes like outdoor tiles, stonework and decking.
Special Features
Beyond aesthetics, today's decorative outdoor stair treads provide clever functions like:
- Lighting - Attractive understep lighting improves visibility and safety while adding ambiance.
- Heating - Radiant heat elements prevent buildup of snow/ice in winter.
- Reflectors - High visibility reflector strips enhance stair safety in low light conditions.
- Detachable - Some treads can be removed/stored during off-seasons or for thorough cleaning.
How to Install Decorative Stair Treads
Installing decorative treads is a straightforward do-it-yourself project. Allow a few hours and follow these key steps:
Measure Carefully
Start by taking careful measurements of each stair tread's length, width and depth. Remember to account for the staircase angle and dimensions of the vertical front riser panel too. Leave small gaps at sides of stairs for expansion and contraction of materials.
Prepare the Surface
Thoroughly clean stairs to remove loose debris, then fill any major cracks or damage with appropriate filler products. This ensures treads adhere properly.
Attach Securely
Use exterior-rated construction adhesive specially formulated for your tread material to permanently affix to stairs. Alternatively, utilize appropriate screws and plastic plugs. Some interlocking rubber tread systems click together without requiring adhesive.
Weatherproof
Properly seal all edges and seam lines with exterior caulk to prevent water damage or lifting over time. For best results, only install products rated for exterior use on outdoor stairs.
Caring for Your New Stair Treads
With proper care and maintenance, your decorative outdoor stair treads can stay looking like new for years. Follow these tips:
Regular Maintenance
- Sweep treads regularly with a broom to remove accumulated dirt and debris.
- Mix mild detergent with warm water and scrub gently to clean treads and keep mold/mildew at bay.
- Carefully check and reseal tread edges before winter with exterior caulk or adhesive to prevent moisture damage when thawing.
Protection from Elements
- Seal, stain or lacquer wood treads annually to protect from UV rays and moisture.
- Where heavy snowfall occurs, remove thick ice buildup promptly with chipping tools or deicer products to avoid surface cracks from weight and pressure.
- In climates with harsh winters, detachable treads can be conveniently removed and stored indoors over the off-season.
Repairing Damage
- For rubber and plastic treads, fill small holes, cracks or thin slices with exterior vinyl patch compound.
- Lightly sand damaged areas of wood treads and refinish with protective sealants or paint/stains.
- Should certain individual treads become excessively worn or damaged beyond repair over time, replace only those steps rather than the entire staircase.
Spiffing up tired outdoor stairs is simple with easy-to-install decorative treads available to match anyone's style, budget and needs. Not only will they give your entryway serious curb appeal, they'll also reduce slips, enhance durability, and make exterior stairs safer and more functional for years to come. Let your personality shine through and make your walkway warm and welcoming with the addition of decorative outdoor stair treads.