8th Jul 2024
Whether renovating an existing building or constructing a new one, installing code-compliant stair nosings should be a top priority. Stair nosings (stair edge treads) are essential for safety, accessibility, aesthetics, and longevity.
This comprehensive buyer's guide by Tactile Solution Canada will walk you through everything you need to know before purchasing stair nosings for your project.
Stair nosings serve multiple important purposes:
The leading cause of injuries on stairs is slip and fall accidents. Stair nosings create traction and allow for safe traversal on the stairs by providing a non-slip surface with glow-in-the-dark visibility.
Photoluminescent stair nosings embedded with luminescent strips provide guidance in case of failure of the main power supply. Such stair edge markings enable safe egress and prevent trips or falls in darkened environments.
Quality nosings protect tread edges from cracking, chipping, peeling, or other physical damage. This saves money on repairs and replacements over the long run.
Stair nosings lend an ultra-modern, uniform look to stairs. Their sleek finish makes the stairs look neat and elegant.
Installing stair nosings allows compliance with local and national safety codes concerning slip resistance, visibility, and accessibility.
Now that you know why stair nosings are important, let's go over the buying considerations.
Follow this comprehensive checklist when purchasing stair nosings:
• Type of Substrate - Ensure compatibility with the stairs' surface material - concrete, wood, metal, tile, carpet, etc.
• Application Method - Choose nosings embedded into new concrete stairs or surface-bonded options for existing stairs.
• Dimensions - Take measurements and select the appropriate length, depth, height, and thickness.
• Safety Features - Opt for slip-resistant material with photoluminescent strips for visibility.
• Standards Compliance – Ensure nosings meet safety codes and standards like IBC, ACA, AODA, etc.
• Warranties - Select nosings backed by long-term manufacturer warranties.
Below, we explain each of these factors in detail.
Stair nosings need to be compatible with the stairs' surface material. Common options include:
• Concrete Stairs: Opt for nosings designed for installation in newly poured concrete or surface-bonding on existing concrete.
• Wood Stairs: Choose self-adhesive nosings for retrofitting wood stairs. Also suitable for laminate or parquet.
• Metal Stairs: Special heavy-duty bonding aluminum nosings explicitly made for metal pan stairs.
Cast-in-Place: Embedded into new wet concrete stairs during pre-construction. Sturdy and vandal-proof.
Surface-Applied: Bonded post-construction by gluing or screwing onto existing stairs. Easy retrofitting.
Use heavy-duty cast-in-place nosings for public infrastructure projects like mass transit systems and arenas. Opt for surface-applied nosings for simplicity for residential buildings and office renovation projects.
Proper stair measurements are vital for precise nosing sizes. Key dimensions:
• Length – Measure horizontally along the step edge.
• Height – Perpendicular distance between the tread and the underside.
• Thickness - Vertical depth from the wear surface to the bottom edge.
• Overlap - Extent of overhand over step edge or previous riser.
Follow manufacturer size charts based on rise height and tread depth. Order 1-2 inches longer to accommodate imperfect stair dimensions.
The primary purpose of stair nosings is safety through slip resistance and visibility. Our Ecoglo stair edge nosings provide:
• Slip Resistance: Opt for nosings with etched non-slip abrasives, ceramic grits, or carborundum crystals bonded to durable aluminum. These maintain traction in wet and dry conditions.
• Photoluminescence: Nosings with glow-in-the-dark strips provide guidance during power outages or darkness. Ensure luminance intensity, duration, and uniformity per local codes and standards.
Stair nosings must align aesthetically with interior décor. Consider nosing color, texture, pattern, sheen, and lighting elements. Match nosing colors to floors or walls. Our stair edge nosings are in federal yellow, grey, and black.
Ensure stair nosings conform to national and regional safety codes and standards.
• International Building Code (IBC): Provides egress and accessibility requirements in Chapter 10.
• Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA): The AODA Section 80.25 necessitates exterior access stairs to have full-width tread markings with slip-resistant, high-contrast finishes on the leading edge of each step.
• CSA Group Standards: Outlines illumination performance metrics for LLL stair nosings.
For Canadian projects, verify CSA B651 compliance. For the US, check ADA Title III compliance. For global projects, ensure conformance with ISO standards for safety.
Opt for nosings backed by long-term warranties. This safeguards against premature damage or wear.
Various nosing types are available based on specifications, site conditions, and budget. We explain a few common varieties below:
Description: Embedded into newly poured concrete stairs. Durable, seamless, and tamper-proof.
Types:
Photoluminescent: Glow-in-the-dark guidance
Non-Photoluminescent: Visible contrast sans glow element. Both feature non-slip surfaces.
Applications: Public infrastructure - mass transit, stadiums, external staircases.
Benefits: Robust, vandal-proof, long lifespan, safety compliance.
Description: Bonded post-construction by adhesives/screws onto existing stairs.
Types:
• Photoluminescent: Step edge glow strip plus non-slip surface
• Non-Photoluminescent: Contrasting nosing minus glow
Applications: Commercial and residential renovation projects.
Benefits: Easy retrofitting, quick installation, safety + aesthetics.
We outline the installation procedures for cast-in-place and surface-mounted nosings:
1. Prepare concrete mix as per the manufacturer's instructions
2. Pour concrete into stair forms
3. Level and smoothen the surface
4. Place nosings along step edges and press down for stability
5. Lightly tap nosings with a mallet for bonding with concrete
6. Repeat the process for each step
7. Allow adequate curing before removing formwork
1. Thoroughly clean and dry the application surface
2. Cut nosings to appropriate lengths
3. Apply adhesive manufacturer's recommended adhesive, like premium polyurethane adhesive, evenly
4. Position and press nosings firmly along step edges
5. Drill guide holes and insert screw anchors for stability
6. Allow adequate bonding drying time before use
7. Repeat the process on all steps
For detailed specifications, trust these installation guides.
Thoroughly clean the surface and remove any loose paint or sealant. Allow the surface to dry completely.
For concrete, use adhesive to allow for expansion/contraction. For timber, ensure the surface is dry for best adhesion.
Maximum recommended outdoor installation length is 1.5 meters with a 3mm gap between lengths.
Alignment:
Q: Are Tactile Warning Strips & Stair Edge Markings the same as Stair Nosings?
A: No tactile warning strips are designed to indicate hazards for visually impaired pedestrians before stairs or ramps. Stair edge markings are painted with contrast stripes. Stair nosings are durable, non-slip aluminum/metal profiles installed along step edges.
Q: Can Stair Nosings be installed outdoors?
A: Yes, stair nosings are explicitly rated for both indoor and outdoor durability. These feature UV resistance, frost/waterproofing, and corrosion protection for long-term outdoor performance.
Q: Why are Stair Nosings mandatory as per safety codes?
A: Codes like IBC, AODA, CSA, etc. require stair nosings to prevent slip & fall accidents and ensure safe emergency evacuation through adequate visibility. Stair nosings provide both non-slip grip and visual contrast.
Q: How often should nosings be inspected or replaced?
A: Quality stair nosings require minimal maintenance and last 10-20 years. However, annual inspections checking bonding, gaps, cracks, visibility, etc., ensure continued safety. Replace immediately if damage, wear, or performance issues are spotted.
Tactile Solution Canada is your trusted stair safety specialist supplying the highest-quality Ecoglo stair nosings across Canada.
For uncompromising stair safety, enhanced aesthetics, and reliability, look no further than Tactile Solution Canada for all your stair-nosing needs. Reach out today for personalized product recommendations from industry experts.
5th Jul 2024
The installation of exquisite anti-slip stair nosing in an edifice is absolutely essential to ensure the health and safety of the denizens as well as to augment the pulchritude of the infrastructure. The authorities have implemented specific mandatory regulations like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act or AODA since 2005 to guarantee that the proprietors and contractors oblige to the rules while erecting any building. One of the most effective ways to conform to these regulations is to utilize the sublime Code-Compliant Stair Edge Nosing Solutions while designing the architecture.
Within the lofty skyscrapers, the stairways act as one of the most pivotal safety aspects that enables the occupants to exit securely in any circumstance. Stairway safety is crucial for emergency egress, and anti-slip stair nosings are essential in maximizing the safety of all the stairways in numerous ways.
The venerable Chapter 10 of the International Building Code encompasses all the means of egress within a building and dedicates a special section for stair nosings. Section 1011 explicitly specifies the regulations for stair nosings. The prerequisites outlined in the IBC ensure that the stair nosings within a facility are uniform and installed securely. To mitigate the tripping hazards, the stair nosings must not protrude more than 11⁄4 inch or 32 mm from the stair tread. Also, the stair nosings in any stairwell are required to be uniform to boost safety.
The anti-slip stair nosings can improve safety within a facility in various ways. Firstly, the stair nosings provide a non-slip grip to reduce the risk of slips and trips, irrespective of the conditions. Moreover, the stair nosings provide a stark color contrast against the stair. This color contrast enables increased visibility of the step-edge for all the occupants.
Many stair nosings feature a photoluminescent strip. This photoluminescent strip increases the color contrast between the step-edge and the substrate and provides excellent visibility of the step-edge in all lighting conditions. The photoluminescent stair nosings shall be applied according to section 1011 of the International Building Code and provide a brightly lit stairway even after the power failure in the facility. The luminescent light does not create shadows and glows brightly so that even in emergency conditions, the occupants can easily navigate the stairways safely.
When pondering how people ascend or descend a flight of stairs or observing others doing the same, one would notice that most of us step right onto the edge of the stair. As a result, this is the first part of the stair to exhibit signs of wear and tear. The signs of wear and tear can make a facility appear outdated and unmaintained, hampering the aesthetics of the building. Some people may even question the stairway’s safety if all the stairs appear battered.
The stair nosings are an excellent way to not only protect the steps from wear and tear but also to maintain the beauty of the facility. The stair nosings are applied where most people commonly step, the step-edge, to protect the stairs from the heaviest wear and tear. The carpet stair nosings prevent rips and tears in the carpet, which can pose a safety risk and make the building look old and run down. The solid stair nosings help to avoid any marks or chips on the stair. The sleek stair nosing helps to modernize the appearance of the building and protects the step edges in the facility from unsightly wear and tear.
Without the utilization of stair nosings, one may have to renovate, remodel or even redo the stairways over time, especially in buildings with heavy foot traffic. Safeguarding the investment from the outset is a cost-effective way to ensure that the stairways continue to remain safe without maintenance. The Ecoglo anti-slip stair nosings are sturdy enough to withstand even the heaviest foot traffic without exhibiting signs of wear and tear.
With the use of stair nosings, one can increase the lifespan of the stairways in the facility by protecting the step-edge and enhancing the safety of the occupants and residents. Although occasionally an afterthought, for anyone aspiring to upgrade the safety in their facility while improving the appearance, the stair nosings should be the most obvious choice!
At Tactile Solution Canada, we offer photoluminescent and non-photoluminescent Ecoglo stair nosings that can be “glued” or "screwed” to the existing surface and are incredibly durable and have been tested to withstand even the heaviest foot traffic. Each stair nosings features a non-slip grip to prevent injury and promote safety in the building.
Prioritize the stairway safety in your facility by contacting Tactile Solution Canada today!
5th Jul 2024
In our fast-paced world, safety and accessibility in public spaces should be a top priority. One crucial aspect that demands special attention is flooring, especially for those with visual impairments.
Enter Armor Tile - a reliable and effective solution that ensures enhanced safety and convenience for everyone. This specialized flooring system has been designed to help individuals with visual impairments navigate their surroundings confidently while prioritizing safety. Keep reading to discover more about the benefits of using the Armor Tile Tactile System.
Armor-Tile provides a broad range of detectable warning tactile systems that meet Full AODA/CSA/ISO and OBC compliance standards. These products are versatile and can be used in various locations, such as transit platforms, curb ramps, stairwells, escalator approaches, pedestrian crossings, parking areas, reflecting pools, multi-modal transit centers, and building entrances.
Armor Tile is available in two primary types: Cast-in-place Armor Tile and Surface Applied Armor Tile.
Armor-Tile Cast in Place Tactile systems involve embedding the tactile indicators directly into wet concrete during the construction or renovation process. This type of installation provides a seamless and long-lasting solution that becomes an integral part of the flooring.
Surface Applied Armor Tile, as the name suggests, is applied directly on top of existing surfaces using appropriate adhesives. This type of installation is ideal for retrofitting projects or situations where removing the existing flooring is not feasible. Surface Applied Armor Tile offers a convenient and effective way to upgrade accessibility in various environments.
Safety is a paramount concern in public spaces, and Armor Tile Tactile System provides an effective way to enhance safety. The tactile indicators help individuals with visual impairments to navigate their surroundings confidently. By incorporating Armor Tile tactile systems, you can create a safer environment that promotes inclusivity and reduces the risk of accidents.
In Canada, ensuring accessibility for all is not just a moral obligation but also a legal requirement. Armor Tile's tactile systems are compliant with AODA/CSA/ISO and OBC standards. By choosing Armor Tile Tactile System, you demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity and create a safe environment for everyone, especially people with visual impairments.
The Armor Tile Tactile System comes in a range of sizes and colors to help business owners and contractors create distinctive and visually pleasing surfaces. It can match the surrounding aesthetics while maintaining compliance with accessibility standards. Whether it's an urban area, a park, or a transportation hub, the Armor Tile Tactile System has the ideal solution for all your tactile flooring requirements.
The Armor Tile Tactile System boasts impressive durability and strength, making it an excellent choice for areas with high foot traffic. Its ability to withstand heavy loads, deflect impacts, and brave harsh weather conditions speaks to its exceptional longevity. This system is particularly adept at standing up to wear and tear, ensuring it will remain functional for a long time to come.
Armor Tile Tactile System is known for its remarkable durability and strength, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Its capacity to endure heavy loads, deflect impacts, and withstand bad weather ensures its longevity.
Armor Tile's tactile flooring solutions are designed for hassle-free installation. Cast-in-place tiles are integrated into the concrete during construction, while surface-applied tiles can easily adhere to existing surfaces. Additionally, Armor Tiles require minimal maintenance, saving time and effort in upkeep.
Armor Tile Tactile System is the ultimate solution for enhancing safety and accessibility while meeting compliance standards. Its durability, versatility, and easy installation make it an ideal choice for various public spaces. Take a step towards improved safety and accessibility by visiting our Armor Tile Tactile System section today. You can rely on Tactile Solution Canada as your go-to provider for the Armor Tile Tactile System.
5th Jul 2024
Stairs are one of the most common and essential features of any building, but they can pose a serious safety hazard if not properly designed and maintained. Slippery surfaces, poor lighting, and lack of visibility can lead to falls, injuries, and even fatalities. That’s why it’s crucial for contractors to install stair edge nosing that provides slip resistance, step edge contrast, and luminous egress path marking.
One of the best products on the market for this purpose is Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing. Ecoglo is a leading manufacturer of photoluminescent and non-slip stair-nosing solutions that are durable, versatile, and code compliant. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain what Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing is, how it works, what its benefits are, and how to install it on different types of stairs.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing is an aluminum stair nosing with a hard-wearing silicon carbide slip-resistance material that is integrally bonded to it. It also has a photoluminescent strip that glows in the dark after being exposed to natural or artificial light. Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing comes in various shapes and sizes to fit different applications and substrates.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing can be installed on concrete, wood, metal, tile, carpet, and resilient flooring stairs. It can be installed in two ways: either by gluing or screwing it to an existing surface or by casting it into wet concrete. Ecoglo provides all the necessary tools and instructions for a smooth and easy installation.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing works by providing three essential functions: slip resistance, step edge contrast, and luminous egress path marking.
Slip resistance: The silicon carbide material on the stair nosing provides a high level of friction that prevents slips and falls on wet or dry surfaces. It is also abrasion resistant and can withstand years of heavy foot traffic without wearing out.
Step edge contrast: The stair nosing provides a clear visual distinction between the step edge and the tread or riser. This helps people to see where they are stepping and avoid missteps or trips. The contrast is especially important for people with low vision or color blindness.
Luminous egress path marking: The photoluminescent strip on the stair nosing emits a bright glow in the dark after being charged by natural or artificial light. This helps people to find their way out of a building in case of a power outage or emergency. The glow lasts for hours and exceeds the emergency egress requirements.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing offers many benefits for contractors and building owners alike. Some of these benefits are:
Safety: Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing reduces the risk of slips and falls on stairs by providing slip resistance, step edge contrast, and luminous egress path marking. It also helps to comply with the building codes and standards on accessibility and fire safety.
Durability: Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing is made of high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, UV exposure, scratches, and abrasion. It also requires very little maintenance and has a long lifespan.
Versatility: Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing can be installed on various types of stairs and substrates. It also comes in different shapes and sizes to suit different applications and preferences.
Aesthetics: Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing adds a sleek and modern look to any stairway and enhances the stairs’ appearance by providing a uniform and neat finish.
Photoluminescent: Ecoglo Photoluminescent Cast in Place Stair Nosings are durable and efficient products that enhance step-edge visibility and safety in any light condition. They are installed into wet concrete and have a non-slip material with photoluminescent technology that glows in the dark for hours. They are also eco-friendly and meet the building code requirements for high rises.
Non-Photoluminescent: Ecoglo Non-Photoluminescent Step Edge Cast in Place Stair Nosings are aluminum step nosings installed into wet concrete and fit to the edge of stairs. They provide step-edge contrast, anti-slip protection, and a modern look. They are made of non-slip material and aluminum with an anodized finish that is durable, corrosion-resistant, and weather resistant. They are designed for step-edge safety and visibility.
Photoluminescent: Ecoglo Non-Slip Photoluminescent Step Edge Contrast Strip is a product that provides slip resistance and step edge visibility in any light condition. It is made of non-slip material and aluminum with a photoluminescent strip that glows in the dark for hours. It is suitable for stairs that need luminous path markings by code. It is easy to install and exceeds the performance standards for photoluminescent path marking.
Non-Photoluminescent Surface Applied Anti-Slip Strips: Ecoglo provides anti-slip strips to prevent slips or falls on stairs in all weather conditions. Ecoglo's non-photoluminescent anti-slip strips come in three colors - black, yellow, and gray - and two sizes to fit any stairs. These durable, weather-resistant, UV-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy-to-clean strips are made of hard-wearing silicon carbide. Ecoglo's non-photoluminescent, non-slip strips provide an extra non-slip grip for steps and highlight step edges to prevent slips and falls. Ecoglo's surface-applied anti-slip strips are the ideal safety solution for preventing slips and fall on any staircase. The strips offer a secure solution for all seasons and step types.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing can be installed in two ways: by gluing or screwing it to an existing surface or by casting it into wet concrete.
1. Gluing or screwing: This method is suitable for installing stair nosing on concrete, wood, metal, tile, carpet, or resilient flooring stairs. The steps are as follows:
Clean the surface of the stairs and make sure it is dry and free of dust or debris.
Cut the stair nosing to the desired length using a hacksaw or a chop saw.
Apply a bead of polyurethane adhesive along the back edge of the stair nosing.
Position the stair nosing on the step edge and press firmly.
Drill holes through the pre-punched holes on the stair nosing using a drill bit.
Insert screws through the holes and tighten them using a screwdriver.
Wipe off any excess adhesive using a cloth.
Repeat the process for each step.
2. Casting into wet concrete: This method is suitable for installing stair nosing on new concrete stairs. The steps are as follows:
Prepare the concrete mix according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pour the concrete mix into the formwork of the stairs.
Level the concrete surface using a trowel or a screed.
Place the stair nosing on the wet concrete along the step edge.
Press down gently until the stair nosing is flush with the concrete surface.
Tap lightly along the length of the stair, nosing using a rubber mallet to ensure proper bonding.
Repeat the process for each step.
Allow the concrete to cure completely before removing the formwork.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing is an innovative product that provides slip resistance, step edge contrast, and luminous egress path marking for stairs. It is durable, versatile, code compliant, and easy to install, and it also improves the safety and aesthetics of any stairway. If you are looking for a reliable and affordable solution for your stairway needs, look no further than Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing solutions at your own website Tactile Solutions Canada.
