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Get the most out of your outdoor spaces without worry. Specifically, we’re talking about your outdoor steps here. Do things ever get a little slippery when it rains? Or, maybe you’d just like to add a little more traction to your steps. To that end, we’ve reviewed the best outdoor non-slip stair treads to keep you and your guests sage while you enjoy the great outdoors.
To answer that question we’re going to jump into some reviews for some of the most popular outdoor stair treads to help keep you safe. First, we’re going to dive into some things you should know before you buy a set of outdoor non-slip stair treads.
Everything you Need to Know Before Buying Outdoor Non-Slip Stair Treads
Here’s a quick rundown of what you should know about non-slip stair treads before you make your first purchase!
Adhesive Vs. Non-Adhesive Outdoor Non-Slip Stair Treads
This is a tough one, since both promise the same result: a non-slippery, and safer set of steps. The fact of the matter is that it depends on what surface you’re trying to cover. Deck stairs for instance, may benefit more from a low-profile and rugged adhesive strip.
Concrete or stone steps, such as those leading up to a front porch will probably work better with a rubber non-slip tread. Since concrete is porous, it’s less ideal for use with adhesive based stair treads.
Now, while most adhesive strips are advertised as waterproof, and many are, there’s a better chance they’ll stay affixed where you left them on a dry wooden surface, than a damp and granular concrete one.
Protecting Your Outdoor Surfaces From Damage
Worried about your newley pressure washed and sealed deck? Thankfully, you can still install these adhesive anti-slip treads safely. The smooth and dry surface of newly finished deck steps are an ideal spot to place these treds, provided they’re completely finished drying.
The reason being is because it gives you a completely smooth surface for the adhesive to properly adhere to. Splintered wood, wet or uneven surfaces will result in frayed edges and eventual peeling of even a decent non-slip tread.
How to Get the Best Results from Non-Slip Grit Tape Treads
Prep the surface by cleaning it thoroughly. For a wood deck, follow these instructions for the best results.
- Pressure wash the surface thoroughly
- If there’s algae or built up dirt and debris present, use a stiff bristled brush to aggregate the surface and remove the debris
- Allow to dry for about 24 hours
- Once fully dry, place the adhesive strip onto the step and apply pressure to the entire length of the strip to ensure total adhesion
The Best Outdoor Non-Slip Stair Treads For Your Deck
Now that we’ve gone over some of the basics, let’s dive right into some reviews for the best outdoor non-slip stair treads!
S&X Stair Treads Outdoor Non-Slip Strips
The tape measures 6×24 inches wide and is available in a 5 pack. What’s special about these anti-slip treads is their non-slip particle surface, which is more robust and less prone to wear than those with a simple rough sand finish.
They’re totally weatherproof, and can easily stand up to direct sunlight in the summertime, and harsh freezing conditions over winter. They feature a strip of glow in the dark light as well, to help you find your step easily once the sun goes down.
Pros:
- Multi-layered particle surface that stands up well to wear and tear
- Glow in the dark strip for extra safety at night
- Can withstand pressure washing once installed
Cons:
- Can be difficult to remove, depending on the surface
First Your Safety Anti-Slip Stair Treads, 80 Grit
At about 80 grit, these treads are a little bit smoother than most while still providing adequate protection against slipping and falling on outdoor steps. The treads come in a 10 pack, each pre cut with a removable backing that you open before installing.
Buy on AmazonSpeaking of which, they’re a breeze to put down! Simply wash and dry a surface completely, and carefully place each one in the desired spot before using the included roller to give it the finishing touch to ensure that it’s totally adhered to the spot.
These non-slip stair treads are ideal for use on very smooth surfaces such as stone, tile or metal steps and ramps. They’re also pre cut to fit most steps, although they can be staggered, or placed end-to-end for much wider steps if desired.
Pros:
- 80 grit texture creates a lot of friction without being too rough
- Included roller makes installing simple
- Incredibly long-lasting adhesion if installed properly
Cons:
- Higher grit could make them less effective if they’re clogged with snow
Rubber-Cal 6-Pack Diamond-Plate Mats
These will almost instantly remind you of commercial-grade anti-slip mats, and you’re not far off. Rubber-Cal makes a selection of non-slip applications using rubber, and this is just one of their many available designs that’s specifically produced for outdoor use.
Buy on AmazonThese have a unique design compared to more permanent pieces of anti-slip treading. First things first, these don’t adhere to the surface, instead simply sitting on top of it. You might be wondering how that remains secure, and it simply takes a polyurethane based glue, depending on which surface you’re using. It includes a 1.6” lip that goes over the edge of the step to hold it in place when you’re ascending the steps.
The 6-pack includes 10” x 36” diamond-plate mats, which gives them extra grip and a more secure feeling when you’re going up or down the steps. They’re about 6mm thick, and make using smooth outdoor surfaces less stressful on your feet.
Pros:
- Diamond-plate texture for extra grip whether or not you’re wearing shoes
- Added lip for extra secure placement on outdoor steps
- Versatile installation for large concrete, wood or tile
Cons:
- Will leave adhesive marks wherever they’re installed
Trazon Heavy Duty Anti Slip Tape for Outdoor Stairs
These are a more slim-line adhesive tape that can provide you with more versatility as to where they’re placed, and shaped! This tape comes in a 5 foot roll at about 80 grit. That means that it’s a little smooth, but perfectly adequate for shoes/sandals.
Buy on AmazonSince you can cut and manipulate the tape anyway you see fit, they’re great for unusually shaped steps, or spaces with different shaped steps. It adheres very well to whatever outdoor surface you put it on, as long as it’s smooth. And, it’s totally waterproof!
These are made for long-term use, so you don’t have to worry about the rotating maintenance of having to replace them year after year. This grip will stand up to frost, rain and snow, too!
Pros:
- Comes on a roll so you can customize the length of the strips based on your specific steps
- Completely waterproof and weatherproof against frost, rain and snow
- Can be placed top to bottom for very deep outdoor steps
Cons:
- Right-edges, (corners) are prone to being frayed and lifted by snow shovels and shoes over a long period of time
Aucuda Comme Rug Stair Treads with Rubber Backing
These grey stone pattern step treads are a great way to keep people from slipping around your pool area, without having to cramp your design. They come two to a package, so they’re really only ideal for short steps, (2-4 steps in total). Otherwise, you’re probably better off checking out some of the other pieces above.
Buy on AmazonThese have a rubber backing that ensures they won’t go anywhere, but also means that you don’t have to use nails or adhesive if you don’t prefer. There is slight movement, but it acts more or less like a non-slip welcome mat in front of your door. Similarly, the ‘rug’ feeling on top is textured much like an outdoor welcome mat as well.
Pros:
- Dries very quickly after being exposed to rain
- Provides the most comfortable non-slip step compared to other models
- Stone design for natural look/ non-commercial looking treads
Cons:
- Can only be manually adhered to surfaces, doesn’t come with adhesive backing or glue
Thanks for checking out the best outdoor non-slip stair treads! Each of these treads provides a different type of protection for different surfaces, uses and even design preferences. With any luck, you will have found a set that works well for your outdoor spaces.