*This article by INSTALL executive director David Gross was originally featured in Floor Covering News Magazine.

INSTALLments: A Series on the Challenges & Opportunities in the Floorcovering Trade 

Step Up Your Game: A Flooring Pro’s Guide to Stair Nosings

By David Gross, Executive Director of INSTALL Flooring

In the floor covering world, the term transition can refer to many different materials and applications, from simple thresholds to detailed wall base moldings. In the context of stair systems, transition refers to stair nosings, the finishing pieces applied to the front edges of stair treads. Stair nosings serve dual purposes. Functionally, they provide durability and crucial slip resistance to stair edges. Aesthetically, they complete each step, enhancing the overall design and visual appeal. In high-traffic commercial environments like schools, hospitals, and office buildings, stair nosings play an especially critical role in reducing trip hazards, creating traction, and improving visibility through contrasting colors and textures.

For flooring professionals responsible for stair projects, mastering the specifics of stair nosings, such as choosing the appropriate style for the application and understanding the installation nuances, is vital for delivering stairs that are safe, durable, and visually cohesive, as well as ADA and building code compliant. To guide flooring professionals in elevating their stair-finishing expertise, here’s a quick look at the most common stair nosing styles, accompanied by expert tips from INSTALL-trained stair specialists.

Square-edge nosing features a clean, angular profile often found in modern interiors and is commonly used with engineered hardwood or laminate. Its crisp lines deliver a sharp visual finish but can also highlight any irregularities in the installation. Expert tip: Use a precise jig or miter saw to ensure perfectly straight cuts, as square profiles easily reveal imperfections.

Bullnose nosing has a rounded front edge and is a more traditional choice, often paired with solid hardwood stairs. It offers a soft, classic look while helping reduce trip hazards. Expert tip: Confirm uniform tread depth and riser height before installation to ensure consistent alignment.

Overlap nosing sits on top of the flooring’s edge and covers the expansion gap, making it ideal for floating floor systems like laminate or luxury vinyl plank. Expert tip: Maintain the necessary expansion space beneath the overlap to prevent buckling. Use temporary shims while the adhesive cures to prevent shifting or sagging.

Flush-mount nosing creates a smooth, level surface with the stair tread, blending seamlessly with nailed or glued-down flooring types such as hardwood or engineered wood. Expert tip: Ensure the stair tread and subfloor are level before installation, as flush profiles will expose any irregularities. Always dry-fit and clamp the nosing piece before final attachment to avoid lippage between the tread and nosing.

Metal nosing, typically used in high-traffic environments, provides a durable and often textured edge for added traction and visibility. Strips are commonly made of aluminum or steel and may include anti-slip inserts. Expert tip: Pre-drill holes and use countersunk screws to fasten metal nosing securely without warping. For added safety, choose a profile with integrated grip or slip resistance on stairs exposed to moisture.

All nosing styles used in stair system designs are critical components that help ensure structural integrity, safe movement, and seamless material changes. When stair systems and nosings are properly matched and installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, they can also create an attractive visual impact that complements overarching design goals. Attention to detail in selecting and installing stair nosings transforms stair systems from merely functional elements into high-quality architectural features. And when done well, they put retailers and installers steps above the competition.