The best type of flooring for stairs depends on where the staircase is located and how it is used. A staircase that is visible from the entryway of the home may need a different type of flooring than a back staircase that leads to the basement.
What to consider when choosing flooring options for your stairs
There’s a number of questions to ask yourself as a homeowner before building or renovating your stairs. The first and most obvious question being: What type of flooring should you use? Choosing the best flooring will depend on several factors. Below are some of the main points to consider that will help you determine which material to floor your stairs wit
- Noise: Stairs close to living spaces, like living rooms or dens, may benefit from flooring surfaces that muffle noise, so you don’t hear people heading upstairs and downstairs all the time.
- Safety: One of the biggest factors in choosing your material is safety. Look for surfaces that are slip-resistant. If you have children in your home or anyone with limited mobility, look for stair floor materials that offer extra traction.
- Traffic: Some stairs are in high-traffic areas and need a durable, easy-to-clean surface that can last for years. Consider the cleaning methods that are required for each option, and choose the flooring you will be able to maintain.
- Style: Visualize the space around the stairs and the style and size of the stairs themselves. Wide, sweeping stairs in a traditional home look wonderful in wood or tile. In a cozy den, carpeted stairs may be more appropriate. Also imagine how your new flooring will look next to the existing flooring on your upper and lower floors.
- Budget: There is a wide range of flooring available from a variety of price points. It is possible to update your stairs without breaking the bank. Choose one of the options available within your budget.
Types of Floor Options for Stairs
Carpet
Carpeting your stairs may be the best option if you have carpet on the upstairs or downstairs of your house that you want to match. A carpet is also a good option if you want to cover an unfinished staircase on a budget. Carpet costs about half as much as hardwood, so it will be cheaper if you’re starting from scratch.
If you have small children, carpeted stairs are softer in case of a tumble. It’s also a non-slip surface and may be safer for both children and older people. Installing carpeting on a staircase is more difficult to do yourself than some other options, but it can be done if you have the time and skills.
Vinyl Plank Flooring For Stairs
Luxury vinyl plank, also known as LVP or vinyl plank, is a highly versatile and budget-friendly material for stairs. Manufacturers can make vinyl flooring that resembles almost anything you can imagine, from stone to metal to tile, though the most popular picks are oak and hickory wood. You’ll find that vinyl plank is made of high-quality material, making it almost impossible to tell the difference between genuine hardwood and vinyl. Due to its waterproof and stain-resistant material, LVP is extremely easy to keep clean.
Hardwood for Stairs
Hardwood is a common alternative to carpet on stairs. It has a classic look that blends well with almost any existing floor in your home. A traditional hardwood staircase is an investment that can boost the property value of your home. Hardwood is durable and can be refinished as it ages to change the color or add a fresh coat of varnish so it looks brand new.
