The fact that you’ve landed on this page means that you are planning on a major home renovation – including the staircase. Well, taking the time to think on how you wish the staircase to look sets the tone for the entire home, and hence, it is time and money well spent. For those who do not have any idea on what they’re getting into, here are a few factors which you should consider while opting for the best flooring for stairs.
- When it comes to the stairs, safety should be your priority. So, always look for flooring options that aren’t slippery. This would help you avoid unwanted mishaps/ accidents.
- Another great factor to consider is the amount of time and money that you are comfortable spending on the maintenance of the staircase flooring. So, options like hardwood floors though look elegant, they need more care than laminate floors.
- Much depends on your budget! Be sure to determine the square footage of the staircase and the price range before you zero in on any flooring option.
- Another factor worth considering is the amount of foot traffic the space gets everyday. So, a staircase leading to the basement would not require as durable a surface as a staircase located by the front door, or the one heading up to the bedrooms.
- Last but not the least, choosing the best flooring for stairs also depends on one’s style and preference. Why? Well, because a modern/ contemporary home would need a different flooring for the stairs than a cosy, rustic home.
Pros and Cons of Flooring Choices for Stairs
We’ve already talked about the major factors that you should consider while zeroing in on flooring options for the staircase, now let’s dive into some of the popular choices.
Carpet flooring: This is a popular flooring option for stairs, mostly because it is soft and comfortable. It provides some traction and is clearly one of the safest options out in case you slip and fall. However, these experience a notable wear and tear, and can be particularly difficult to maintain. These accumulate a lot of dirt and thus, you’ll need to vacuum them regularly.
Vinyl plank flooring: Vinyl planks or luxury vinyl planks are a budget-friendly option for the stairs. You can get vinyl surfaces that mimic the look of other premium flooring options available in the market – from tile to stone and hardwood. The fact that these are made up of quality materials is what makes it waterproof and stain-resistant. Moreover, it is extremely easy to maintain.
Hardwood flooring: Almost everyone loves the classic and elegant look of the hardwood floors. These are clearly one of the best flooring for stairs. These are known for being extremely durable, are fairly easy to clean, and do not trap allergens and dirt. However, it can be a bit slippery when wet. Of course, you can install no-slip treads to make the polished hardwood safer for your family.
Laminate flooring: Another great option for the stairs is laminate. It is highly versatile and quite pocket-friendly. Laminate can be particularly great if you wish to achieve the wooden look for your staircase floor, and at the same time want it to be a low maintenance option.
Change the look of the stairs with a new flooring over tile
Did you know that you can actually lay a new flooring over the existing tiles on your stairs? Well, now you know! But the question remains as to what flooring over tile would be the best! Our team of experts at Floors Blvd are here to help you.
Ceramic tiles are a familiar sight almost everywhere – be it at office spaces or our own homes. They are sturdy and hard. However, they feel quite dated, and thus, may not work well with the modern design aesthetics of your home. Luckily, you can install other flooring over the existing tile! Here are a few different options that can be laid over the tiles.
Vinyl planks: These are known to be a great versatile option, particularly for use as flooring over tile. These mimic the look of stone or wood flooring and are available in different styles, colours, and textures. Vinyl planks are water-resistant and have a soft feel underfoot, making them an ideal choice for stairs.
Laminate: Laminate floors can also be great for stairs. It is fairly easy to install, is durable, and is available in tons of different designs and textures. Like vinyl, these too can mimic the look and feel of other flooring options. Laminate floors are resistant to scratches and stains, thereby being perfect for high-traffic areas.
Engineered wood: Here’s another stylish and durable choice for flooring over tile. It not only provides the aesthetic look of the hardwood floors, but is also a lot more stable, all while being less prone to moisture damage. Also, it is a great option for people who want to achieve the hardwood look for their stairs without paying a premium.
How To Make Laminate Floors Shine
Frequently asked questions
Should I go for a new flooring over an existing tile flooring on the stairs?
Definitely! You can go for a new flooring over tile on the stairs. It is a practical, as well as a cost-effective way to update the look and feel of the staircase without the unnecessary hassle of removing the old tiles. Options line vinyl planks, engineered wood, and laminates are worth considering. These materials are not only quite durable but also offer a fresh look. For more info on this, feel free to connect with our experts at Floors Blvd.
Which flooring options are resistant to scratches and stains?
Vinyl and laminate flooring are excellent options if you need a flooring that’s resistant to scratches and stains. Both these flooring options are durable and designed to withstand heavy foot traffic. Thus, they are ideal for homes with kids and pets. In fact, you can even go for engineered wood. It offers a balance of aesthetic appeal and resilience.
What are the best flooring options for households with pets?
For households with pets, the best flooring for stairs are vinyl planks and laminate flooring. The fact that vinyl planks are durable, water-resistant, and scratch-resistant, makes them pet-friendly. Laminate flooring too offers the same level of scratch-resistance, and is quite easy to clean. If you install any of these, we assure you that in spite of heavy pet activity, your staircase flooring will remain in good condition for years to come.