Retrofitting a stair nosing to a floor that is already down is a different problem from specifying one at build stage. There is no rebate to sit in and no chance to bed anything under the covering, so the profile has to sit on top and still look deliberate. This 50mm x 30mm aluminium nosing is made for exactly that: a slim straight-edged section that laps over the finished tread and down the riser, with grip machined straight into the metal rather than carried in a separate insert.
Why it works
The grip is machined, not fitted
The tread face carries fine grooves cut into the aluminium itself. There is no PVC insert to specify, no insert channel to keep clean and nothing to work loose or need replacing later. That makes it a low-maintenance choice for a stair that is already finished and in use, though it also means the grip is the texture of the metal rather than a rated anti-slip insert — if you need a published slip figure, choose an insert-carrying profile instead.
It sits on the floor, not under it
This profile sits on top of the floor covering, giving a defined step edge over ceramic tile or a similar hard finish. Because it laps over rather than tucking under, you can fit it without lifting anything, which is what makes it suitable for refurbishment and repair work where a full re-cover is not on the table.
Where it is used
Tiled entrance steps and lobby stairs, LVT and laminate flights in offices and rented housing, and any refurbishment where a step edge has worn or chipped and the covering is staying put. The straight square edge suits a stair with a vertical riser; on a raked or sloping riser a raked-back profile will sit closer.
Specifications
| Specification |
Detail |
| Profile |
Straight square-edge retrofit stair nosing, 50mm tread x 30mm riser |
| Material |
Extruded aluminium |
| Tread surface |
Machined grooves in the aluminium — no separate insert |
| Insert channel |
None — no channel or insert |
| Suitable floor finishes |
Tile, LVT, laminate |
| Fixing |
Adhesive, screw or tape |
| Stock length |
2770mm |
| Bespoke finish |
Powder coating to any RAL number, to order |
| Slip resistance |
Not published for this profile |
| DDA classification |
Not published for this profile |
| Photoluminescent strip |
None. This profile does not glow |
Choosing the right option
The only choice here is length. Measure the full width of the tread and take the next length up, then cut back on site with a mitre saw and a metal-cutting blade. The stock extrusion is 2770mm, so anything longer than that is supplied as more than one piece — if you are covering a wide flight, ask us before ordering so we can confirm how it will arrive and where the joint falls.
If contrast at the step edge matters to you — a school, a care setting, anywhere with an accessibility brief — this is not the profile for it. A machined aluminium face gives you grip but not a strong tonal difference against the floor. Choose one of our coloured-insert nosings instead, where the manufacturer publishes a Light Reflectance Value for each insert so you can work the contrast out properly.
Installation, use and care
Make sure the step is dry, clean and free of dust or loose grout. Offer the nosing up and mark your fixing positions, then drill and plug. Bed it on a suitable adhesive and screw down; on a tiled step, drill carefully with a tile bit and avoid over-tightening, which can crack the tile under the flange. Tape fixing is available for light-duty or temporary work but mechanical fixing is the durable answer on a stair in daily use.
Clean with warm water and a neutral detergent. The aluminium can be brought back with steel wool or a cloth; avoid solvent cleaners, and avoid abrasive pads on a powder-coated finish.
Frequently asked questions
Does this one glow in the dark?
No. It has no photoluminescent strip and no insert of any kind — it is bare machined aluminium. If you want a step edge that stays visible in a power cut, look at our photoluminescent stair nosings, which carry a glow strip that charges from ordinary light.
Can I fit it without lifting the floor covering?
Yes, that is the point of it. The profile laps over the finished tread and down the riser rather than tucking underneath, so the tile, LVT or laminate stays where it is.
Is there an anti-slip insert?
No. The grip comes from grooves machined into the tread face. It is a simpler, lower-maintenance arrangement, but it does not carry a published slip rating the way our insert-fitted profiles do.
Will it fit a sloping riser?
Not flush. This is a straight square-edge profile, so the back leg drops vertically. On a raked riser it will stand proud at the bottom — use a raked-back profile there instead.
Ordering and delivery
Order one nosing per step and allow a little extra on the width for trimming. UK delivery is charged at one flat rate whatever the size of the order. Powder coating to a specific RAL number is available to order — get in touch before you buy and we will confirm lead time.
View our complete range of stair nosing profiles — aluminium, rubber and PVC options for every application.