Stair Edging Types and Their Benefits Explored

Stair edging – also referred to as stair nosing – is an addition to your staircase that both amplifies its overall appearance and improves the longevity of stairs and entrances. Our range of stair edging will slot perfectly into any entryway and across most staircases. 

At Stair Rods Direct, our range of stair edging is vast, so here we will explore the various options and types of stair edging, and how they can fit best into your property.

Types of Stair Edging

Stair edging can be grouped into 4 core types:

1. No overhang: This type is self-explanatory. Put simply, this edging is flush with the riser (the vertical element of each step). This type of stair edging keeps each step streamline, preventing trips and slips, and also lends itself to sharp and modern interior design.

2. Square edge: More commonly found on wooden staircases, this type of stair edging surrounds the treads (the surface of the steps themselves) and overhangs slightly. Their edges are slightly rounded, which helps to prevent denting during heavy use.

3. Half round edging: Sometimes referred to as ‘bull nose’, this type of stair edging features a straight edge but rounded corners, often likened to half moons. These are usually installed on the bottom step of a staircase, where the tread and riser wrap into the newel base.

4. Fully curved edging: This time of stair edging is usually only found on landing steps since, due to their round shape, they offer less slip protection than other types of stair edging. 

For more information, we have a complete guide to the 4 types of stair edging.

The Main Benefits of Stair Edging

The benefits of good quality stair edging – like that which we provide at Stair Rods Direct – are manyfold. To name a few, they:

• Keep you safe: Most importantly, they help to prevent slips and trips when using the stairs, which in turn helps you to feel more secure in your home. 

• Preserve your stairs: Stair edging aids in the longevity of your stairs, as extremely transient spots in your home, they come into contact with a lot of wear and tear, so it is important to add stair edging to lessen the need for expensive repairs and replacements at a later date. 

• Complete a staircase: Last but not least, they improve the overall aesthetic of your staircase, like the cherry on top of your interior decorating, stair edging keeps everything looking sleek, intentional, and professional. 

Options for Stair Edging

Like the rest of our staircase accessories, our stair edging comes in a huge variety of finishes. So, when browsing for the right type, it can be helpful to explore your finish options first, to hone the scope of your search.

Our stair edging is available in the following finishes:

Brass Stair Edging

Our brass collection is by far the most popular, as brass is such a classic choice and fits into most home aesthetics beautifully. Our brass range comes in:

• Polished brass: A staple choice for homes across the UK. Polished brass is an elegant and timeless choice.
• Satin brass: Sticking with a classic choice, our satin brass finishes are best for a subtle shine that does not overwhelm stairs.
• Antique brass: This is a finish that will give your stair edging a well-worn look, leaning into a gorgeous, vintage aesthetic. 

Bronze Stair Edging

For interiors that favour neutral colour palettes, our exquisite range of bronze stair edging finishes are a perfect choice. They lend themselves to both contemporary and traditional styles, which make them a brilliantly versatile choice.

Chrome Stair Edging

We have a dedicated guide to chrome stair nosing which details why this range and finish is such a staple choice. Regular chrome is the colder cousin of polished brass – it offers a stunning shine that elevates style and visibility. Alternatively, brushed chrome is a popular finish for a subtle and muted look that works perfectly with grey or white interiors. 

Pewter Stair Edging

Our range of pewter stair edging boasts a truly timeless, antique look, with its tarnished finish. Like our bronze range, pewter finishes are extremely versatile and suit most interior decoration.

Nickel Stair Edging

Similar in look to the chrome stair edging, this finish is a warmer shade that works best with creamy and pastel colour palettes. You can choose between the polished nickel, for breathtaking shine and brightness, or the satin nickel for a reserved and regal gleam.

These selections are just a taste of what our full range has to offer. If you have yet to find stair edging to entice you, we recommend exploring our full range.

Explore Our Complete Range of High-End Staircase Accessories

Here at Stair Rods Direct we specialise in staircase accessories. So once you have explored our extensive range of stair edging and nosing, feel free to see what else we have to offer. From stair rods to carpet studs, our must-have collections will tuck in any loose edges and elevate your home’s overall aesthetic.