GripStep Anti-Slip Stair Tape

What it is and how it grips

GripStep Anti-Slip Stair Tape is a roll of high friction tape made for stairs, steps and outdoor surfaces. The top face is an abrasive grit surface. The back is an adhesive backing that presses onto the tread.

The grit does the work. Where a bare wood, tile or concrete step can feel slick under a wet shoe, the abrasive surface bites into the sole and gives it something to push against. That makes this tape a practical add-on for the front steps, the basement staircase, the deck stairs or any spot where footing feels uncertain.

Because the tape is thin, it sits close to the surface. You do not get a raised lip underfoot the way you might with a bulky mat. It is also a simple way to mark the edge of a step so the nose of each tread is easier to see.

Sizes and colors

Two widths are available, and both come on the same 16.4 ft (5 m) roll.

Color choices are Transparent, Black and Gray.

• Transparent blends with the tread and keeps the existing look of the stair.
• Black reads as a clean, classic edge on wood, concrete and metal.
• Gray sits between the two and suits lighter surfaces.

Pick the width based on how much of the tread you want covered. The 1 in (2.5 cm) roll is a narrow strip, good for a defined line near the nose of each step. The 2 in (5 cm) roll covers more of the tread and gives a wider band of grit underfoot.

Where it works

Stairs and steps are the main job. Indoor staircases, porch steps, garage steps and basement stairs all take this tape well. The same roll also works on outdoor surfaces such as deck boards, ramps, walkways and the flat areas around a door where rain or shade can leave a slick film.

A few spots where a strip of grit helps:

• The nose of each tread, where a foot lands first.
• The landing at the top or bottom of a flight.
• A short run of steps down to a patio or shed.
• A ramp or sloped walkway.
• A workshop or utility area where dust and shavings collect.

Because the tape is sold by the roll, you can cut pieces to fit each tread and use the rest wherever it is needed.

How to apply it

A clean, dry surface is the whole secret. Take a few minutes on prep and the tape will hold far better.

1. Sweep or vacuum the step. Loose grit, sand and dust keep the adhesive from bonding.
2. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and let it dry fully. If there is grease or oil, use a mild household cleaner and rinse.
3. Measure the tread and cut the tape to length with household scissors or a utility knife. A straight cut gives a cleaner edge.
4. Peel back a short section of the backing and press the tape down at one end.
5. Work along the step, peeling and pressing as you go. This avoids air pockets.
6. Press firmly over the whole strip, especially the edges. A roller or the heel of your hand works well.

For outdoor surfaces, apply on a dry day and give the tape time to settle before heavy use. On a very smooth or glossy surface, a light scuff with fine sandpaper before wiping can give the adhesive more to hold onto.

Care and long life

Once the tape is down, care is simple. Sweep or rinse the steps as you normally would. A stiff brush and warm water lift most dirt out of the grit. Avoid harsh solvents, which can soften the adhesive over time.

In winter, keep the grit clear of packed snow and ice so the abrasive surface stays exposed. If a corner lifts, press it back down while the surface is dry. When a strip finally wears smooth after heavy traffic, peel it up, clean the step and apply a fresh length from the roll.

Store any unused tape flat, away from direct sun and extreme heat, so the backing stays easy to peel.