There are many different types and styles of floor coverings that can be added as part of your stairway. Floor coverings for your stairs not only add to the decor appeal of the room, but it also is an important consideration when you think about the durability and overall care you will need to take on based on your flooring selection. Many of the flooring types can be laid by any do-it-yourselfer. All you need are a few tools and the time to have a great set of stairs. Below are several options for you to consider.
Hardwood Flooring
A very elegant choice for your stairs is hardwood flooring. Hardwood can be laid on different angles. You can purchase different colors, styles and hardwood types for your stairways. Pick anything from dark hardwood to light hardwood. Use solid pine to an aesthetic teak or cherry wood. There are many different options and you will be sure to find something that fits your needs and tastes. Remember, hardwood is easy to clean and will stand the test of time. One word of caution: hardwood can be slippery to walk on with socks.
Carpet Runner
For any hardwood surface consider adding a carpet runner to your stairway. You can add the carpet runner to coordinate with the interior of your home. You can also pick from different types of materials for your carpet runner. A carpet runner is a great addition because it helps to create a slip resistant surface over your stairs.
Carpeting
You can choose to carpet the entire surface of your stairs. The carpet you choose can coordinate with other rooms in your home. You also have the option choosing from different types of carpeting.
Tile
Picking tile for your stairways gives the stairs a different look. Try using a slate tile. This adds a lot if you are covering exterior stairs or if you are covering a small set of stairs from the entry way. You can use different sizes of tile. Generally, anything under four inches squared would be the best type of tile to use for the stairways.
Laminate Flooring
There are different types of laminate flooring available. Laminate flooring can be purchased in different types. You can purchase laminate that looks like hardwood (you can even find one that looks like knotty pine) and you can buy rolled laminate that you would use in the kitchen. Laminate is a cheapest form of floor covering. It is easy to lay and easy to maintain. You can also replace the laminate for less cost than you can with other forms of floor coverings for your stairs.
Glass Tiles
Rather than picking a generic type of ceramic tile, try to use something a little different. Glass tiles give you a great deal of extra reflection in the room. They can be purchased in different types of colors and reflective capabilities. You can also lay glass tile to look like a mosaic pattern.
Source: www.DoItYourself.com
