Anti-slip on stairs — safety and sleek design do not have to clash

There is a persistent misconception in the world of stair finishing: anti-slip is ugly. Rubber studs, aluminium profiles, self-adhesive strips — they do the job, but they undermine the appearance of the staircase.

It does not have to be that way.

Why do anti-slip and design traditionally clash?

Traditional anti-slip solutions are added to an existing tread. They are a correction — an element that is added because the material itself does not provide enough grip.

The result is always a compromise. The anti-slip is visibly present as an added element. And that element rarely fits the appearance of the tread perfectly. How loose strips hold up in practice can be found in anti-slip strips on stairs — do they really work.

Integrated anti-slip — a different approach

With recycled natural stone composite from Omnistair, anti-slip is not an added element. The anti-slip structure is part of the mineral surface of the material.

That means:

No visible strips, studs or profiles.

The grip sits in the texture of the surface — as with real stone.

The appearance of the tread is uninterrupted.

The anti-slip does not age like a coating.

EverStep Solid complies with NEN 7909 — the highest anti-slip standard for stairs in buildings — with an appearance that remains architecturally refined. A full comparison of the anti-slip solutions can be found in which stair renovation has the best anti-slip.

When is visible anti-slip still the right choice?

In situations where an existing tread cannot be replaced — or where an interim solution is needed — a visible anti-slip element can be sensible.

GripStep from Omnistair is in that case a better choice than loose rubber studs. The system is glued over the stair nosing, is available in stone appearances that suit the interior and provides more grip than a self-adhesive strip. If safety for older residents plays a role, also read making stairs safer for seniors.