Within this article, you will discover how to install carpet and rubber stair treads. You'll also know the difference between the two different kinds and what their uses are for. We'll also be discussing the benefits of applying carpet/rubber stair treads; where to purchase them; how to make them yourself and some useful links for your review to help in your decision and learning process.

Of all documented cases of accidental slipping and falling, the majority take place within our home. Our homes are meant to be a place of salvation, peace and safety. What can you do to reduce the risk of slipping and falling which will increase the peace and safety within your home? By adding a simple piece of flooring material that is often overlooked by many. Carpet stair treads or rubber stair treads are the two materials that I am referring to. By using one of these two simple additions, your chance of slipping on the stairs will greatly be reduced by adding additional traction to an otherwise slick surface.

The difference between the two separate types of stair treads is based partly on the appearance and partly on traffic wear. The carpet stair tread is simply a piece of carpet that usually has a rubber or foam type backing such as commercial grade carpeting. The rubber stair tread is a solid piece of decorative rubber that comes in a variety of designs. Making a decision between the two different styles for your home is simply a aesthetic decision. Most home foot traffic for the stairs would be considered a heavy foot traffic thus the carpet would do fine.

But where do you find such a type of flooring for stairs? Naturally, always check your local hardware store. Depending on the type of hardware or home improvement store you visit, they might have them already in stock or be able to order them for you. E-Bay will usually have them up for auction; Gardynboy Designs and The Discount Flooring Company usually have a wide variety in stock and can ship them directly to you.

If you can't find a design that will complement your home décor, you could also construct your own carpet or rubber stair treads that will match what is existing. It is a simple process to design, construct and install your own custom carpet or rubber stair treads. Here is a short step by step process for making your own carpet or rubber stair treads.

1. Match-up your selected carpet or rubber stair tread style with your existing flooring or home décor. This decision is solely a personal decision that you must feel good about. Keep in mind that your selected stair tread will remain in place for many years to come. Be happy with it from the beginning.
2. Take a measurement of your stair step and cut your carpet or rubber stair tread approximately 2 inches bigger than it all the way around. Don't worry, you'll be able to trim it up when your installing it.
3. Do a “dry fit” before applying any type of adhesives to be sure that everything measures up the way that you expected it to.
4. Next, apply a thin coat of contact cement (for carpet stair treads) or rubber cement (for rubber stair treads) to both surfaces and gently position it into place.
5. When you have it firmly in place, take a utility knife and carefully trim up the edges. Make sure that you get into the angles when cutting and go slowly.
6. Lastly, when everything is in place and trimmed up, run a hand roller over each stair tread as you go to ensure that all air pockets are removed.

Making a decision to add carpet or rubber stair treads to your home will bring a peace of mind and added safety for many years to come.