Choosing stair coverings goes far beyond appearance. This is a decision that directly impacts the safety, durability of the work and comfort in daily use. To help with this choice, Otávio Henrique, a civil engineer graduated from CEFET-RJ and founder of Varg, shares the main points of attention gathered into seven essential guidelines for those who are building or renovating. Check it out!

1. Prioritize resistant and versatile materials

When choosing stair coverings, durability and aesthetic flexibility go hand in hand — and can define the long-term success of the project. “To the natural stoneslike granite, are practically unbeatable when we talk about durability. Porcelain tiles have become a favorite on the market due to their variety of textures, colors and the ability to faithfully reproduce other materials”, explains Otávio Henrique.

According to him, those looking for comfort will find hardwood a timeless choice, while microcement perfectly suits projects with an industrial and contemporary aesthetic.

2. Evaluate the cost-benefit without compromising on visual impact

Balancing budget and visual result is one of the main challenges in renovations, materials such as granite and porcelain emerge as an alternative. “Granite and porcelain tiles lead when it comes to cost-benefit. Granite lasts decades without losing performance, and porcelain tiles deliver a sophisticated look at a more affordable price”, says the expert.

For projects where the objective is to make an immediate impact, marbles with striking veins and solid woods elevate the aesthetic level of the staircase.

3. Safety comes before aesthetics

More than an architectural element, the ladder it is an area of ​​constant circulation — and potentially dangerous when poorly planned. “Beauty matters, but safety is the pillar of choice”, reinforces the civil engineer.

It highlights the importance of the material’s coefficient of friction and edge finishing. “Avoid sharp corners. The rounded finish is safer in case of impacts. Another point that is rarely observed is the color of the floor, which cannot camouflage the step under artificial lighting”, he warns.

4. Avoid polished and very shiny floors

Excessive shine may seem sophisticated at first glance, but on stairs it becomes a silent hazard. Otávio Henrique is direct in this warning: “Polished or highly shiny floors are extremely slippery, especially in humidity or when the person is wearing socks”. In addition to the risk of falls, excessive reflection can confuse vision and cause stepping errors. “Ladders require grip, not a mirror effect”, he highlights.

5. Pay attention to optical illusions and texture

Poorly planned visual details can compromise depth perception and surprise even those who already know the space well. “The real danger arises when we ignore the visual reading of the stairs”, says the civil engineer. Steps with a continuous pattern between the floor and mirror can create an optical illusion. “Add that to a smooth floor and poorly resolved lighting, and you have a daily risk at home”, he warns.

When there are more vulnerable audiences in the home’s routine, each choice needs to be even more strategic. “In these cases, anti-slip is not optional, it is mandatory”, highlights Otávio Henrique. For seniors, contrast strips or strips help with depth perception. To petsvery smooth surfaces should be avoided, as they impair traction and overload the joints. “Matte or satin materials work best for everyone,” he says.

7. Technical standards and external areas cannot be ignored

According to Otávio Henrique, the choice of flooring must comply with standards such as NBR 9050 and NBR 9077, which determine safety and comfort criteria, in addition to the Blondel Formula. On external stairs, care is even greater. “Use only rough stones, such as miracema or peaked granite, or porcelain tiles suitable for external areaswith appropriate classification. The natural roughness of the material is essential”, he says.

Ultimately, a good staircase is one that combines aesthetics, functionality and safety. “When the coating is well chosen, it enhances the project and protects those who use the space every day”, concludes the civil engineer.

By Sarah Carvalho