Why are Rubber Treads so Popular on Outdoor Steps?

Climbing stairs can sometimes feel treacherous, especially those stairs that are outdoors and exposed to the elements. That is why it is fairly common to see outdoor steps outfitted with rubber treads. The stair mats are in place in order to make climbing them easier and safer. Rubber stair treads are ozone and weather resistant, and they also offer great grip. Because of these two qualities, rubber has become the standard for outdoor stair mats.

Whether in rainy Seattle or the Mojave Desert, rubber treads are exposed to the outdoor elements. This includes rain, snow, or sleet that create dangerous slippery surfaces, harsh UV rays from the beating sun, and exposure to degrading ozone. Thankfully, rubber treads are resistant to each of these elements. It may seem obvious why it’s important for rubber stair treads to be weather resistant, but why is it important form them to be ozone resistant? What does ozone resistant mean exactly?

Ozone is an inorganic molecule in the form of a gas that, when exposed to certain types of rubber (even in low doses), can cause deterioration or cracking (Wikipedia). Rubber treads are made of recycled rubber, making it ozone resistant. Making the stair rubber treads ozone resistant is important because it keeps them from wearing down or tearing apart. This makes them last longer, therefore not needing to be replaced as often. Many rubber products, including grip mats, are specifically made to be ozone resistant due to the fact that it was very problematic before a solution was eventually found (Wikipedia).

In addition to resisting ozone, the non-slip treads are weather resistant. They protect against the rain, snow, and ice creating a slippery surface on the stairs, but they also keep out mold and mildew when they get wet. But rain, snow, and ice are not the only weather the rubber treads are resistant to. Harsh UV rays can have a similar effect on rubber as ozone can, causing cracking or deterioration. But rubber stair treads made with reclaimed rubber are resistant to the damage that UV rays can cause. So, rain or shine, rubber treads will keep outdoor steps safe and protected, as well as those climbing them.

Another quality of rubber treads that make them a great option for outdoor stair mats is the excellent grip they provide on steps. It is essential to have good grip, (floor or staircase) but especially for outdoor steps, to help prevent anyone from tripping or falling and hurting themselves. Rubber naturally has a high coefficient of friction, which means it provides more resistance or traction when something is moving across its surface. A rubber grip mat will increase this traction even more so with its textured surfaces. Most rubber treads have raised designs that will increase traction. The difference in surface level of the non-slip tread creates even more resistance, creating a better grip. Stair mats that provide grip are important for keeping outdoor steps and staircases safe.

Rubber treads have easily become the standard for outdoor grip mats. Eco-conscious businesses and individuals choose rubber treads because they are made from reclaimed rubber. Reclaimed rubber is produced using the rubber from old tires. This reusing of material is what makes the non-slip tread eco-friendly. In addition to being eco-friendly, rubber treads are the standard for business to keep their valued patrons and employees safe. Having a grip mat is essential to maintaining safety on any outdoor stairway. As mentioned before, outdoor stairways are exposed to inclement weather, such as rain or snow. Rain and snow cause dangerously slippery steps, which make individuals more susceptible to slips and falls. Using grip mats to keep people safe is important for business to avoid any loss of labor, loss of money through lawsuits, and loss of reputation. Employing non-slip treads is a simple and effective way to keep your business from suffering any of these losses. Rubber treads can be useful for a small three-step walkway leading up to a small store or a three-story staircase for a large parking garage. In any case, a non-slip tread can keep someone from having a terrible accident.

Rubber treads’ popularity is not without good reason. Non-slip treads protect outdoor steps from the degradation from weather and ozone, protect individuals from injury due to trips or falls, and protect businesses from losing money and their reputation. Install rubber treads for your outdoor staircase to keep yourself protected as well.