Your cart
Your cart is empty
Continue shoppingStep tread tiles
Step tread tiles are designed to make stairways safer, more durable and easier to maintain, whether they’re part of an outdoor area, a residential entry or a commercial walkway. The right edge profile and surface finish help improve grip on each step, while matching tile sets allow you to create a consistent look across your floors and staircases. At Cheap Tiles Online, you can browse porcelain, ceramic and stone step tread options made for Australian conditions, all supported by our price beat guarantee.
No products found
Types of Step Tread Tiles
Porcelain step treads
Porcelain step treads are a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor stairs because they’re dense, durable and available in finishes that support better traction. Their low maintenance surface makes them suitable for areas that see regular foot traffic, from residential entrances to exposed outdoor stairways.
Bullnose options
Bullnose tiles feature a rounded front edge that softens the transition between steps. They’re commonly used on staircases that need a clean, finished look and a comfortable edge profile. Bullnose tiles can match your main floor tiles to create a tidy, coordinated result.
Drop-face or edge-profile tiles
Drop-face tiles create a straight, modern edge by allowing the front of the step to continue downwards in a single piece. This gives stairs a more contemporary feel and works well in homes aiming for clean lines. Edge-profile tiles help provide definition and can improve visibility on individual steps.
Tiles with built-in grip strips
Some step treads are designed with integrated grip strips or textured edges. These features help increase traction, particularly in wet or outdoor areas, and support better slip resistance without changing the overall look of the tile.
Where Step Treads Are Used
Outdoor stairs
Outdoor stairs benefit from step treads that handle weather exposure and provide reliable grip underfoot. Porcelain and stone options are often chosen here, especially in alfresco spaces and garden access points.
Commercial properties
Commercial walkways, building entries and shared access areas often require tiles with defined edges and suitable slip ratings. Step treads with built-in grip features or contrasting profiles can help meet these requirements.
Residential entrances
Front entries, porch steps and pathways all gain extra safety from step tread tiles. Using a matching floor tile can create a consistent look from the entrance into the home.
Pool areas
Poolside stairs and raised platforms benefit from treads with a textured finish or grip strip to support safer footing in wet conditions.
Internal staircases (depending on finish)
Indoor staircases can use step treads when you want a consistent flow from your main floor tiles. Matte or lightly textured finishes are typically more comfortable and provide better control on interior steps.
Key Considerations Before Buying Step Tread Tiles
Slip rating required
Stairs exposed to water, outdoor conditions or commercial use may require higher slip ratings for safety. Indoor steps often need a moderate rating that provides steady grip without a heavily textured feel.
Edge profile for safety
Different profiles suit different needs. Bullnose edges feel smoother underfoot, while square-edge and drop-face profiles create sharper definition. Contrast strips or textured edges can also help with visibility.
Durability under foot traffic
Porcelain provides strong durability for heavy foot traffic, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor staircases. Ceramic and stone options also work well depending on the finish and where the staircase is located.
Matching floor tile sets
Many people choose step treads that match their main floor tiles to create a coordinated look. This works particularly well in alfresco areas, entries and internal stairways where the space flows from one level to another.
Contrast requirements for visibility
Some settings benefit from colour contrast on each step. This can help define the tread edge and improve safety in both residential and commercial spaces.
FAQs about Step Tread Tiles
Slip rating requirements depend on whether the staircase is indoors, outdoors or in a wet area. Outdoor and commercial stairs generally need higher slip resistance than internal stairways.
Matte or lightly textured finishes provide better control underfoot. In wet or outdoor areas, a dedicated grip finish or built-in grip strip is often recommended.
It's not always necessary, but matching step treads with your floor tiles does create a consistent look and makes transitions between levels feel more seamless.
Yes. Some step treads include integrated grip strips or nosing features designed to improve traction and visibility on each step.
Yes. Porcelain’s density and durability make it suitable for outdoor steps, especially where weather resistance and low maintenance are important.
Measure the width and number of steps, then allow a small margin for cuts or adjustments. Ordering slightly more than your exact measurement helps avoid shortages during installation.
Bullnose edges can feel smoother and reduce sharp transitions, while square-edge profiles provide clearer definition. Safety depends on the slip rating and finish rather than the edge shape alone.
Yes. Step tread tiles can be applied to existing surfaces as long as the substrate is stable, level and suitable for tile installation.