Blog > Step it up: A guide to the best flooring for stairs

Step It Up: A Guide To The Best Flooring For Stairs

Monday December 2, 2024

From carpet to hardwood, discover the best options to step up your staircase style and durability.

Your staircase is more than a pathway from one floor to the next. It’s a focal point that deserves both style and durability. Choosing the right flooring can transform your stairs from functional to fabulous, making every step a reflection of your home’s personality.

Stairs are high-traffic areas that endure daily wear and tear, so they need flooring that’s both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Let’s dive into the best options for stair flooring, along with some trending styles, so you can make the best choice for your home.

Flooring for stairs: Important factors to consider

Choosing the right material for your stairs involves more than just picking a style you like. To ensure your stairs are both functional and beautiful, there are several practical factors to keep in mind — safety, durability, and maintenance.

Safety should be a top priority when selecting flooring for stairs, as the risk of slipping can be higher on hard surfaces like wood, laminate, or tile. If you’re drawn to these options, consider adding anti-slip treatments or mats to provide extra grip and prevent accidents. Textured finishes on materials like vinyl or laminate can also improve traction. For homes with kids or older adults, carpet remains a popular choice for its natural grip and softer surface in case of falls.

As one of the most high-traffic areas in any home, stairs demand flooring that can withstand daily use without showing significant wear. Hardwood and vinyl are some of the most durable materials for stairs, standing up well against heavy foot traffic, spills, and scratches. Hardwood is an excellent choice for a long-term investment, as it can be refinished multiple times to restore its original appearance.

Different materials have different cleaning needs. Hard surfaces like hardwood, laminate, and vinyl are easy to sweep and mop, making them ideal for homes where quick cleanup is essential. Carpeted stairs, while cozy, tend to require more upkeep, as they collect dust and dirt more readily. However, choosing a stain-resistant carpet or one made from synthetic fibers can make maintenance easier.

Hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl, and carpet are the primary materials to choose from when selecting the ideal flooring for stairs.

Finding the perfect flooring for stairs

There are four primary materials to choose from when selecting the ideal flooring for stairs. Here’s what you need to know about hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl, and carpet.

Hardwood: A classic for elegance and durability

Hardwood is a timeless choice for stairs. It’s visually appealing, adds warmth, and is extremely durable when properly maintained. Oak, maple, and cherry woods are popular due to their resilience, but harder woods like hickory can withstand even more wear and tear. Although hardwood might be pricier, its durability and high-end look make it a solid investment. That’s why two-thirds of respondents to a National Wood Flooring Association survey said they’d choose hardwood flooring for their dream home.

Pro tip: Add non-slip treads or rugs to enhance safety and give a bit of cushion to each step.

Laminate flooring: Stylish yet affordable

Laminate is a popular flooring option for stairs due to its affordability and ease of installation. It mimics the look of wood but comes at a fraction of the cost. However, some people worry about the slickness of laminate on stairs. To address this, opt for laminate products with textured finishes or add non-slip mats to prevent accidents. Laminate can work well for stairs but may not be as durable as hardwood, so it's a great choice if you’re looking for style on a budget.

Pro tip: Use a high-quality underlayment beneath laminate flooring to improve sound absorption and enhance comfort.

Luxury vinyl flooring: Resilient and water-resistant

Luxury vinyl flooring is another fantastic option that works well on stairs due to its resilience and water-resistant properties. You can choose between luxury vinyl planks (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Both are great for homes with kids or pets, as they can handle spills and scratches with ease. Luxury vinyl comes in a variety of designs that mimic wood or stone, making it a versatile option to suit various décor styles. It’s also easy to clean and maintain, though it may need additional adhesives to stay firmly in place on stairs.

Pro tip: For families with kids or pets, choose waterproof luxury vinyl flooring to keep stairs safe from spills or moisture damage.

Carpet: Cozy comfort with extra safety

Carpet on stairs is a popular choice for families with young children or elderly members due to its softness and added traction. It reduces noise and provides a cozy aesthetic. Wool and nylon carpets are highly durable and available in a wide range of colors and patterns to match your décor. Keep in mind, though, that carpet requires regular maintenance and may need to be replaced sooner than hard-surfaced materials.

Pro tip: For a sleek, low-maintenance look, choose low-pile carpet that won’t collect dirt or pet hair as easily as high-pile options.

From bold, patterned carpeting to minimalist vinyl, today’s design-forward options for flooring elevate both form and function.

Trending flooring styles for stairs

Today’s design-forward options for flooring elevate both form and function. Your choice depends on the overall style of your home and how big a splash you’d like to make with your staircase. Here are some trends that will elevate your home decor:

• Patterned carpeting: Bold, patterned carpeting is making a comeback on stairs, adding texture and personality.
• Mixed materials: Combining materials, like wood and tile, create a striking look. A wood stair with tile accents on the risers adds contrast and a custom feel.
• Minimalist vinyl: Vinyl planks in neutral shades are an on-trend choice that enhances modern interiors with a clean, seamless look.

While it can be tempting to follow the latest trends, you’ll want to choose a style you’ll be happy with for a long time. The last thing you want is to tire of your stairs after only a couple of years, leading you to invest in costly renovations.

The best advice? Don’t rush your stair flooring decision. Take time to explore options and have mockups designed if possible. This ensures you’re 100% confident about your choice before purchasing materials.