✓ UK's Trusted Flooring Specialist
Everything you need to know about laminate and vinyl staircase kits
Our staircase kits are designed to match our laminate and vinyl flooring ranges, creating a seamless, coordinated finish from floor to stair. Whether you are renovating your home or fitting out a commercial space, this guide covers the questions we get asked most often.
What is a staircase kit?
A staircase kit is a set of pre-cut components designed to overlay and transform an existing staircase. Each kit includes a tread (the horizontal surface you step on), a riser (the vertical face between each step), and a nosing (the front edge of the tread that provides a neat, safe finish at the lip of each step).
The kits are sold per step and are designed to match our laminate and vinyl flooring ranges exactly, so you can carry the same look from your hallway floor up your stairs without any visible break in style.
In all cases, the subfloor must be smooth, dry, and level before installation. Any significant dips or raised areas should be addressed with a self-levelling compound beforehand.
Kits are sold as single steps. Count the number of stairs you have before ordering to make sure you get the right quantity.
What is the difference between laminate and vinyl stair kits?
Both options are durable and designed for everyday use, but they suit different spaces and priorities.
Laminate
- Scratch-resistant surface
- Curved nosing profile
- Natural wood-like finish
- Best suited to dry areas with moderate foot traffic
- Matches our laminate flooring ranges
Vinyl
- Fully waterproof
- Square-edge nosing profile
- Impact and scratch resistant
- Ideal for high-traffic areas, kitchens, and commercial
- Matches our vinyl flooring ranges
If you are unsure which is right for your project, the general rule is: choose vinyl for any space where moisture could be a factor, and laminate where appearance and a traditional finish are the priority.
Can I install a staircase kit myself?
Yes. Both laminate and vinyl staircase kits are designed to be accessible for confident DIYers as well as professional fitters. Installation uses a glue-down method, with components adhered directly to the existing stair surface using a suitable flooring adhesive.
Prepare the surface
Ensure each step is clean, dry, and free from loose material. Sand down any high spots and repair any damage before you start.
Dry fit first
Lay the tread and riser in position without adhesive to check the fit and trim if necessary. Mark your positions clearly before applying glue.
Apply adhesive
Use a suitable flooring adhesive, applied evenly across the full surface of the stair. Follow the adhesive manufacturer's guidelines for open time and coverage.
Press and secure
Lay the riser first, then the tread on top. Apply firm, even pressure across the full surface and use weights or tape to hold components in position while the adhesive cures.
Allow to cure
Do not use the stairs until the adhesive has fully cured. Check the adhesive packaging for the recommended wait time.
Do not use the click installation method. Staircase kits must be glued down for a safe, secure result.
Will my staircase kit match my flooring?
Yes. Our staircase kits are designed specifically to coordinate with our laminate and vinyl flooring ranges, so you can achieve a continuous look from hallway floor to staircase. When ordering, select the kit that corresponds to your flooring range for an exact colour and finish match.
If you are ordering flooring and a staircase kit at the same time, order them together to ensure they come from the same production batch and the colour match is as close as possible.
How do I clean and maintain my staircase kit?
Staircase kits are maintained in the same way as their flooring counterparts.
Laminate
Sweep or vacuum regularly. Clean with a lightly damp mop and a laminate-safe cleaner. Avoid excessive moisture and never use a steam cleaner.
Vinyl
Wipe down with a damp cloth or mop. Vinyl is fully waterproof so spills can be cleaned up easily. Avoid abrasive products that could dull the surface finish.
If you are unsure which is right for your project, the general rule is: choose vinyl for any space where moisture could be a factor, and laminate where appearance and a traditional finish are the priority.
Fit a stair runner or grip mat if the stairs will be used heavily or by young children and elderly household members, to reduce slip risk.
Check the nosing periodically to ensure it remains fully adhered at the edge of each step.
Address any lifting edges promptly using the appropriate flooring adhesive.