How to Make Outdoor Concrete Steps Less Slippery: Non-slip Step Tread Covers for Concrete Steps

Concrete steps are a familiar sight in both residential and commercial properties — from backyard patios and apartment entrances to schools, offices, and industrial buildings. But while concrete is strong and durable, it has one major drawback: it becomes dangerously slippery when wet, icy, or worn down.

Every year, thousands of slip-and-fall injuries occur on outdoor steps that could easily be prevented with proper safety measures. The good news? You don’t need to demolish or rebuild your stairs to fix the problem.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best, most effective ways to make outdoor concrete steps less slippery — from quick DIY options to long-term professional-grade solutions like ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Step Covers.

You’ll learn:
✅ Why concrete stairs become slippery
✅ Temporary vs. permanent anti-slip methods
✅ The #1 long-term solution for all-weather traction
✅ How ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Step Covers improve safety instantly
✅ Installation tips, real results, and FAQs

Why Outdoor Concrete Steps Become Slippery

Concrete’s durability makes it ideal for outdoor stairs — but it’s not naturally slip-resistant. Over time, several environmental and physical factors cause the surface to lose traction.

1. Weathering and Surface Erosion

Constant exposure to rain, snow, and temperature changes smooths and polishes the surface, creating a slippery finish.

2. Moss, Algae, and Mold

In shaded or damp areas, a thin film of organic growth forms, making even slightly sloped steps dangerously slick.

3. Ice and Snow

In Canada and the northern U.S., frozen precipitation turns bare concrete into a skating rink.

4. Foot Traffic and Aging

Heavy use slowly wears down the rough texture of concrete, reducing natural friction.

5. Poor Drainage

Pooling water or melting snow worsens slipperiness and contributes to cracking over time.

The Importance of Slip Resistance on Concrete Steps

Slippery steps aren’t just inconvenient — they’re a major safety and liability risk. Falls on stairs are among the most common causes of serious injuries in workplaces, residential complexes, and public buildings.

Anti-slip stair tread covers or coatings are not just upgrades; they’re safety investments that:

• Prevent accidents and injuries
• Help meet OSHA, ADA, and local building safety codes
• Protect property owners and managers from liability claims
• Extend the life of existing stair structures

The Best Ways to Make Outdoor Concrete Steps Less Slippery

Here’s a detailed comparison of the most effective anti-slip solutions — from fast DIY options to professional-grade systems like ComposiGrip™.

✅ 1. Install Anti-Slip Stair Tread Covers (Best Long-Term Solution)

The most reliable and durable fix for slippery outdoor steps is installing ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Step Tread Covers. These covers are designed specifically for concrete stairs and are trusted by facility managers, homeowners, and contractors across North America.

Instead of tearing out old concrete steps, you simply install ComposiGrip™ covers directly on top — instantly adding a high-traction, weatherproof surface that lasts for decades.

Why Choose ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Step Covers for Concrete Stairs

✅Slip Resistance You Can Trust

Each step cover features a textured, grit-embedded surface that provides excellent grip in rain, snow, and ice — ensuring year-round safety.

✅Durable Composite Construction

Made from fiberglass-reinforced composite materials, ComposiGrip™ covers are engineered for heavy foot traffic, industrial durability, and extreme climates.

✅Fast, Cost-Effective Upgrade

No demolition or concrete work required — installation takes hours, not days. You save thousands in reconstruction costs.

✅UV and Weather Resistant

Designed for Canada’s freeze-thaw winters and hot, sunny summers, ComposiGrip™ covers won’t peel, crack, or fade over time.

✅Code-Compliant

Helps meet or exceed building safety codes, including OSHA and ADA traction requirements in many regions.

✅Easy Installation

Attach using construction adhesive and masonry screws — no specialized tools or labor required.

Applications of ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Stair Covers

ComposiGrip™ products are used in a wide range of environments:

🏢 Commercial Buildings and Plazas
🏭 Warehouses and Factories
🏫 Schools and Universities
🏠 Residential Walkways, Porches, and Patios
🏥 Hospitals and Government Buildings
🏬 Retail and Office Entrances
🏢 Apartment Complexes and Condos

Wherever you have concrete steps exposed to rain, snow, or ice, ComposiGrip™ adds the safety and durability you need.

Available Sizes and Colors

• Standard lengths up to 48 inches (custom sizes available)
• Choose from classic grey, safety yellow nosing, or custom colors to match your building’s design.
• Photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) nosings are available for nighttime visibility and code compliance.

These design options improve visibility and traction, especially in low-light environments.

How to Install ComposiGrip™ Step Covers on Concrete Steps

Installation is quick and simple:

1. Clean the concrete surface thoroughly to remove dirt, oil, and debris.
2. Apply high-quality construction adhesive to the back of each cover.
3. Position the cover carefully on the step.
4. Drill and fasten with stainless steel or masonry screws for maximum durability.
5. Allow adhesive to cure — most installations are ready to use the same day!

No demolition, grinding, or resurfacing required.

For detailed instructions, refer to our Installation Guide

Real Results, Real Safety

Our customers across North America have transformed slippery, unsafe stairs into safe, long-lasting, and attractive surfaces.

“We used ComposiGrip over cracked concrete steps in our apartment complex. Not only did they fix the problem instantly, but they looked great too. Very easy install!”
— Property Manager, Ontario

After installing ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Step Covers, users consistently report:
✅ Fewer slip-and-fall incidents
✅ Improved compliance with safety regulations
✅ Enhanced appearance of buildings
✅ Lower maintenance costs

2. Apply Anti-Slip Coatings or Grit Paint

Anti-slip paint or epoxy coatings can temporarily increase traction. These coatings usually include fine grit or silica sand that adds texture to the surface.

Pros

✅ Affordable and easy to apply
✅ Improves aesthetics
✅ Quick DIY project

Cons

❌ Wears off in 6–12 months
❌ Requires regular reapplication
❌ Can peel or bubble in extreme weather

Anti-slip coatings work best as short-term solutions or for low-traffic residential stairs.

3. Use Non-Slip Tape (Short-Term Fix)

Non-slip adhesive tapes provide quick traction but are not ideal for outdoor or high-moisture conditions. The adhesive weakens under rain, snow, and sun exposure.

Pros

✅ Inexpensive
✅ Easy DIY install

Cons

❌ Peels within weeks outdoors
❌ Poor performance in cold climates
❌ Requires frequent replacement

4. Pressure Wash and Clean Regularly

Sometimes, slipperiness is caused simply by dirt, algae, or moss buildup. Regular pressure washing helps maintain traction, but it doesn’t fix the root cause — worn concrete.

Combine cleaning with an anti-slip surface treatment for the best results.

5. Grind or Etch the Concrete Surface

Professionally grinding or acid-etching adds micro-texture to concrete, making it more slip-resistant.

Pros

✅ Long-lasting finish
✅ Natural look retained

Cons

❌ Costly and labor-intensive
❌ Not 100% effective in snow or ice
❌ Requires professional service

6. Improve Drainage Around Steps

Standing water leads to slick surfaces and accelerated wear. Check for proper drainage and divert downspouts or install channels to direct water away from steps.

7. Use Ice Melt Correctly in Winter

Use concrete-safe deicers like calcium magnesium acetate or calcium chloride — these melt ice without damaging your steps. Avoid rock salt, which can cause cracking and scaling.

Cost Comparison of Anti-Slip Solutions

 

ComposiGrip™ stair covers remain the most durable and cost-effective over time, offering decades of performance compared to short-lived DIY fixes.

Climate Matters: How Weather Impacts Slip Resistance

In climates with rain, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles, concrete’s surface quickly loses its grip. Smooth concrete combined with moisture or ice becomes more slippery than tile or wood.

ComposiGrip™ covers are specifically designed for harsh climates — maintaining grip even in wet, icy, and freezing conditions. The embedded grit texture ensures consistent traction year-round.

Safety, Aesthetics, and Peace of Mind

With ComposiGrip™, you can transform unsafe concrete stairs into safe, visually appealing, and code-compliant access points. Whether you manage a school, warehouse, or home, anti-slip stair covers provide a permanent safety upgrade that’s both functional and attractive.

Ready to Improve Safety on Your Concrete Steps?

Don’t wait for an accident to happen. Protect your family, visitors, and employees today with ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Step Covers — a smarter, safer alternative to stair replacement.

Shop Anti-Slip Step Covers for Concrete Steps
or
Contact us with your project details.
Our team can help with sizing, installation tips, and bulk pricing for large projects.

FAQs — How to Make Outdoor Concrete Steps Less Slippery

1. What is the best long-term solution for slippery concrete steps?

Installing ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Stair Covers provides permanent traction, weather resistance, and durability that lasts decades.

2. Do anti-slip paints and coatings really work?

They work short-term but require reapplication. For long-lasting safety, stair covers are superior.

3. Can I install ComposiGrip™ covers myself?

Yes! Installation is DIY-friendly with adhesive and screws — no demolition or special tools required.

4. How long do ComposiGrip™ covers last?

10–20+ years depending on traffic and environment, with minimal maintenance.

5. Do they work in snow and ice?

Absolutely. The grit surface provides excellent traction even in extreme winter conditions.

6. What colors are available?

Grey, black, safety yellow with nosing, and custom colors — plus photoluminescent glow options for night visibility.

7. Are they suitable for commercial buildings?

Yes. ComposiGrip™ covers are used in commercial, industrial, and residential applications across North America.

Conclusion: The Smart Way to Stop Slippery Concrete Steps

If your outdoor concrete steps are slippery, cracked, or unsafe, you don’t need to rebuild them — just cover them.

With ComposiGrip™ Anti-Slip Step Covers, you get:
✅ Permanent traction
✅ Easy installation
✅ Weatherproof durability
✅ Code compliance
✅ A cleaner, professional appearance

Make every step safer. Choose ComposiGrip™ — Engineered for Safety and Durability.