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What is Oak Stair Nosing and What Are its Benefits?

Stylish wooden contemporary staircase inside loft house interior.

Oak stair nosing is a type of wood nosing that plays an important part in both the aesthetics and durability of a staircase. Oak stair nosing can be fitted to almost any indoor staircase, including laminate, wood or tile. In this article, we’ll be looking at the reasons why oak stair nosing is a great addition to any staircase.

Is Oak Stair Nosing Better Than Other Types?

Oak stair nosing is simply another type of stair nosing that is used to cover staircases to enhance their appearance and protect against foot traffic. Oak is a great option for both residential and commercial staircases because it looks great and has solid, durable properties. Oak is a versatile design that works well with wooden staircases and helps extend the treads, providing longer steps for better safety.

Can Oak Stair Nosing Be Fitted to Any Staircase?

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Oak nosing can be fitted to almost any indoor staircase as long as the nosing is cut and measured to fit the treads. You will rarely see solid oak stair nosing used outside, as aluminium and metal-based nosings are preferred for durability and grip.

What Staircases Does Oak Suit Best?

That really depends on your preference! Oak, being a wood (or at wood-colour/effect), makes it incredibly versatile and therefore ideal for a range of different staircases. However, as a general design rule, oak will work well with wooden staircases, especially if you’re able to match the nosing to the exact (or close to the exact) colour of your staircase.

Are there Alternatives to Oak Nosing?

Of course, there are a variety of different alternatives to oak nosings, these include:

  • Bronze – great for a rustic, subtle look
  • Brass – a lighter, metallic look, great for wooden staircases
  • Antique brass – a muted brass alternative
  • Satin brass – brighter and more eye-catching than brass and antique brass
  • Chrome – for a professional, shiny finish
  • Brushed chrome – a muted or matte alternative to chrome
  • Polished nickel – light, subtle and versatile
  • Satin nickel – slightly more muted than polished nickel
  • Pewter – a more organic-looking metal, muted and versatile
  • Black – standard black nosing for darker staircases

Explore our full range of stair nosing products.

Will My Stair Nosings Be Able to Wrap Around Curved Stairs?

Most stair nosings can’t be cut and measured to fit onto curved staircases. This is because wood nosing doesn’t naturally curve, they are designed to be tough and durable; if they bent, it would compromise this. However, our bendy bullnose stair nosing has been specifically designed to wrap around stairs and provide protection to the edges. This stair nosing can also be fitted to straight stairs.

How Much is Oak Stair Nosing?

Oak stair nosing typically costs between £12 – £55 depending on what measurements you require. £12-15 is standard for 18-20mm oak nosing. However, prices vary depending on the type, length and quality of wood. Oak nosing is usually more expensive than laminate and aluminium.

Looking to Buy Oak Stair Nosing for Your Staircase?

Modern Staircase with Brass Stair Nosing

We stock a wide range of stair nosing and premier lips to suit a wide range of hard flooring types, such as laminate and LVT. Plus, with an array of metallic finishes to choose from — including chrome, pewter, brass, nickel, and many more — these stair noses will add a touch of sleek style to your staircase.


FAQs

Should stairs have nosing?

It’s not essential that all staircases have stair nosing. Stair nosing is more commonly seen in commercial spaces because foot traffic is typically higher, but there is no reason why you cannot install oak or other wood-based nosings onto your home staircase. If you have a family or pets, oak stair nosing will help weather their foot traffic, protecting against scuffs, marks and scratches. It will also add an additional safety feature in making the reads slightly longer.

Is it illegal to not have stair nosing in a commercial workplace?

There is no legal requirement for you to install stair nosings onto commercial staircases. However, it is advised. Stair nosings are a relatively inexpensive product that improves the overall safety and accessibility of staircases, as well as protect them from constant foot traffic. This helps maintain your staircase’s appearance and minimises the risk of slips and falls in the workplace.

Is oak stair nosing easy to install?

Stair nosing can be installed by you, at home if you follow our short and simple guide. This guide works for any type of stair nosings, whether they’re oak, metal, laminate or something else.

How do I clean my stair nosings?

Stair nosings can be cleaned using standard cleaning ages, avoid heavy bleach however, as this can cause staining and in some cases damage the integrity of the nosing. Start by vacuuming the staircase and then use a damp cloth to wipe down the nosing and the rest of the stairs.