When the weather gets colder and the rain or snow begins to fall, many homeowners think about how they can prepare their homes. One important task that often gets overlooked is preparing outdoor stairs for rainy and icy conditions. It's a good thing we've researched this to help you learn the best ways to keep your outdoor stairs safe.
Rain, ice, and snow can make even the most sturdy staircases treacherous, causing people to slip and injure themselves. Thankfully, there are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of slipping on your stairs:
- Sand and seal the outdoor stairs
- Apply a coat of non-skid paint or epoxy to the steps
- Install stair treads for better traction
- Place a rug runner on the steps
- Add edging trim strips
- Sprinkle sand and salt on the stairs
- Add some lights for visibility at night
- Keep the area around the stairs clear of debris and snow
- Add warning labels or symbols
Keep reading to learn some tips on what to put on outdoor stairs to prevent slipping. These are simple additions that can keep your stairs safe.
Keep Your Outdoor Stairs Safe
Slips and falls on stairs are a common occurrence, especially in the winter when ice and snow can make surfaces slick. Every year, countless people slip and fall on icy steps, sustaining serious injuries. Here are a few simple steps that you can take to help prevent accidents.
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Sand and seal the outdoor stairs
One way to help prevent slips and falls is to sand and seal your outdoor stairs. By sanding down the rough edges of the wood, you'll create a smoother surface that's less likely to cause someone to trip. In addition, sealing the stairs will help to protect them from moisture and other elements that can lead to deterioration.
As a bonus, sealing your stairs will also give them a nice shine that enhances their curb appeal. So if you're looking for a simple way to help prevent accidents, sanding and sealing your outdoor stairs is a great place to start.
Apply a coat of non-skid paint or epoxy to the steps
Applying a coat of non-skid paint or epoxy to outdoor stairs is an effective way to prevent slipping. This is especially important in areas where there is a lot of foot traffic or where the stairs are exposed to the elements.
Non-skid paint or epoxy will provide a textured surface that will help to increase traction, making it easier for people to grip the stairs and preventing slips and falls. Besides that, this type of coating can also help to protect the stairs from wear and tear, prolonging their life and making them more durable.
While it may take some time to apply, a coat of non-skid paint or epoxy is a simple and inexpensive way to improve safety and prevent accidents on outdoor stairs.
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Install rubber stair treads for better traction
Rubber stair treads provide extra traction and can help to prevent falls. In addition, they can also help to keep your stairs clean by trapping dirt and debris.
Use rubber stairs to your outdoor stairs. - View them on Amazon.
Place a rug runner on the steps
One way to make outdoor stairs safer is to place a rug runner on them. Rug runners have a rough surface that helps to grip the snow and ice, making it less likely for you to slip. They also provide some insulation, which can help to keep your feet warm.
Other than that, rug runners are available in different colors and designs. As a result, it can add a touch of style to your outdoor staircase, making it more inviting to use.
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Add edging trim strips
These strips are made of a tough, durable material that can stand up to weather and foot traffic. They're also easy to install and come in a variety of colors to match your home's exterior. Edging trim strips are an easy and effective way to help prevent slips and falls on your outdoor stairs.
Get edging strips for your stairs. - View them on Amazon.
Sprinkle sand and salt on the stairs
Sprinkling sand or salt on the steps is an effective way to provide traction and prevent falls. This will help to create a more secure footing and also make it easier to see where you are stepping.
Besides that, the rough texture of these materials helps to create traction, making it less likely that you will slip and fall. In addition, salt and sand can also help to melt ice, making it easier to clear snow and ice from the stairs.
Add some lights for visibility at night
Outdoor stairs can be a hazard, especially at night when they are not well lit. A simple way to prevent accidents is to add lights to the stairs. This will help people see where they are going and avoid slipping. Here are a few different types of lights you can install:
- Solar lights are a good option because they are easy to install and do not require an electrical outlet.
- Another option is to use LED lights, which are very bright and energy-efficient.
Whichever type of light you choose, make sure to position the lights so that they adequately illuminate the stairs.
Add solar lights to your stairs. - See them on Amazon.
Keep the area around the stairs clear of debris and snow
Maintaining clean stairs will help to create a clear path for people to follow, and it will also make it easier for people to see any potential hazards. Shovel any snow that has accumulated, and remove any leaves or other objects that could cause someone to trip.
Add warning labels or symbols
Adding warning labels or symbols to outdoor stairs can help prevent slip and fall accidents. It is important to be aware of the potential hazards posed by slippery surfaces, especially in areas where people are likely to be walking or running.
Adding a label or symbol that warns of the danger can help ensure that people take extra care when using the stairs.
Is railing more important than using a slip-resistant product on the steps?
Railings are an important safety feature on any set of stairs, but they are not the only safety consideration. Another important factor is slip resistance. Steps can be made more slip-resistant by using a product like anti-slip tape or by roughening up the surface with sandpaper.
Ultimately, the level of safety required will depend on the specific circumstances. But then, in general, it is important to take both railings and slip resistance into account when making stairs. These products help to create a more secure footing on the stairs, making it less likely that a person will slip and fall.
Which material should you use for your outdoor stairs?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a material for your outdoor stairs.
- First, you'll need to decide if you want a natural look or if you're okay with a more synthetic material.
- Second, you'll need to think about durability and whether the material can withstand weather and foot traffic.
- And finally, you'll need to consider the cost.
With all of that in mind, let's take a look at some common materials used for outdoor stairs.
Wood
Wood has a natural look and feel for your outdoor stairs. But, wood can be pricey, and it isn't the most durable option. If you choose wood, be sure to seal it properly to help extend its lifespan.
Concrete
Concrete is another popular choice for outdoor stairs. It is very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Yet still, it can be difficult to install yourself, and it isn't the most attractive option.
Metal
Metal is a great option if you're looking for something that is both durable and good-looking. But then, metal can be expensive and may require more maintenance than other materials.
Stone
When it comes to durability and style, stone is an excellent choice for outdoor stairs. For example, granite is a very hard type of stone that is less likely to chip or crack. It's also a good choice for areas with freezing temperatures, as it won't expand or contract like some other types of stone.
If you're looking for a classic look, then marble or limestone might be a good choice. Most importantly, stones have a more non-slippery feature, especially ones treated properly.
Remember, the best material for your outdoor stairs will depend on your budget and your personal preferences. No matter what material you choose, be sure to add a slip-resistant surface and railings to help prevent accidents.
Final Thoughts
There are a few simple things that you can do to prevent slipping on outdoor stairs. You can review the suggestions above and see the best way you can try. By taking some precautions and making a few changes, you can create a safer environment for yourself and your family.
To get more tips on how to prevent slipping on outdoor stairs, follow along with our other posts: