Slippery stairs are one of the most common causes of workplace and public falls, and the risk climbs sharply on external steps in wet or icy weather. The good news is that you rarely need to replace a staircase to make it safe. GRP stair tread covers retrofit over your existing steps and add a tough anti-slip surface in minutes per step.
What are GRP stair tread covers?
GRP stair tread covers are fibreglass profiles with a bonded grit top surface, made to sit over the existing step. They fit virtually any substrate, including concrete, steel, timber and brick, and suit both internal and external stairs. Each cover has an integrated 55mm x 55mm nosing that wraps the step edge, helping stairs meet current Building Regulations guidance on step edges, and contrasting nosing colours are available to support DDA and Equality Act compliance where a visible step edge is required.
Covers, nosings or full grating treads?
Which product to choose depends on the condition of the stairs and the environment:
- Stair tread covers resurface the whole step. Choose these when the tread surface is worn, smooth or slippery.
- Stair nosings protect just the step edge. A cost-effective option when the step itself is sound and you mainly need edge grip and visibility.
- Open mesh grating stair treads replace the tread completely on steel stairs, fire escapes and platforms where water and debris need to drain through.
Choosing the right size and colour
Covers are supplied in 1000mm, 1500mm, 2000mm and 3000mm lengths and a 345mm depth, so most staircases can be covered with a single cut-to-width piece per step. Colour options include grey with yellow nosing, black with white nosing, black with yellow nosing and stone, letting you pick a contrast level that suits the setting.
How to fit them
Measure the width of each step and the depth from the step edge to the riser, then cut covers to width using standard tools following the same approach as our guide to cutting GRP safely on site. Covers are fixed with adhesive and screws into the existing step, so a staircase can usually be upgraded in a single visit without closing it for long periods.
Where they are used
Typical installations include external fire escapes, access stairs at industrial units, schools and public buildings, offices, holiday and caravan parks, farms and stables, and any steps that turn slippery in the rain. Because GRP does not rust or rot, covers are a long-term fix outdoors, and the grit surface keeps its grip in wet and adverse conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fit tread covers over wooden stairs?
Yes. Covers fit over virtually any sound substrate, including timber, concrete, steel and brick.
Do they work outside?
Yes. GRP is corrosion resistant and UV stable, and the gritted surface is designed for wet and adverse weather.
How long does fitting take?
Once cut to width, each cover fixes down with adhesive and screws in a few minutes.
Do stair tread covers meet Building Regulations?
The integrated 55mm x 55mm nosing is designed to help stairs meet current Building Regulations guidance, and contrasting nosing options support DDA and Equality Act requirements for visible step edges.
How much do they cost?
GRP stair tread covers start from £25 per cover, with trade prices shown on the product page.
Browse the full range of GRP safety products, request a sample to test the grip yourself, or call 01480 570001 for advice on your staircase.
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