What is the best flooring option for stairs? That is something many peopleask, especially when they don't want to opt for the same as everyoneelse. It will depend on a number of factors including the size and styleof your staircase. Here are a fewconsiderations to make sure you find flooring that is safe, secure, and looks good.
Cork for Closed and Open Staircases If you have a closed or open staircase, oneof the best flooring options is cork. This is safe to use and will be secure to walk on. At thesame time, it collects minimal dust, so it is great for those with allergies. Thematerial also comes in different colors, which is perfect for thosewho want to match their flooring to their walls with a small budget. Cork is also thesafest option for stairs since it does not becomeslippery.
Using Hardwood Flooring Safely Hardwood flooring is great for various types of stairs, especially open and curved staircases. However, you need planks that are long and wide enough to cover the stairs. This is for safety reasons. If you have two or threeplanks per stair, you run therisk of not leveling them and they can causea trip hazard or problems with laying carpets, etc.
Laminate Flooring for Easy Maintenance When laid along the stair in one piece, laminatecould bebeneficial. This is morethecasefor curved or open staircases. Laminate isoneof the best options when you want easy maintenance. It is very easy to wash, often just wiping it down. However, it can becomeslippery. This is very important to think about considering safety on stairs.
Cork is another easy maintenance option that you could consider. If you're considering carpets, consider the vacuuming that needs to be done periodically. Getting the vacuum cleaner up and down the stairs will takea lot of work and can be dangerous. Hardwood floors stain very easily, so if there is a spillage it needs to becleaned quickly.
The best flooring will depend on the type of staircaseyou have and your needs. Cork is one of the easiest and safest options for all types of stairs. However, laminate is one option available if you have an open or curved staircase. Hardwood flooring and carpets may be easier, look professional and stay warm, but they require more maintenance.
Resources: http://www.lkandsons.com http://ezinearticles.com/?BestFlooring-Option-forStairs&id=8246030